The big cat is out of the bag – Jaguar has officially unveiled its XJ full-size luxury sedan. It’s target? The BMW 7-series, Mercedes S-Class, Lexus LS and the rest. The 2010 XJ will go on sale in December 2009 with prices starting at $72,500, but deliveries will begin early 2010.

The exterior of the XJ drives home Jaguar’s latest design theme, which was first applied to the XF. Its most controversial design element is its highly sloping C-pillar and its slightly awkward tail-end. The XJ will be available in both standard and long wheelbase versions; as you would expect, the latter version will provide more space for rear-seat passengers.

Compared to he steel-cold feel of the Jaguar XF’s interior, the interior of the XJ has a warmer, more colorful undertone and is just plain gorgeous. The dash wraps around the cockpit, much like what could be seen in the 2010 Buick LaCrosse (a compliment to the LaCrosse). Wood is abundant from the dash to the doors, driving home the British brand’s tradition. Step into this car and I’m sure you’ll know you’re in a Jaguar

So what powers this Jaguar? A meaty 3.0L V6 diesel for European buyers; North American buyers will can choose from a 385hp 5.0L naturally aspirated V8, a 470hp 5.0L supercharged V8 and a 510hp 5.0L supercharged V8.

Owning a Jaguar is expensive (literally and figuratively). The XJ will start at $72,500 while for the XJL with the naturally aspirated V8 start at $79,500s. Want a 470hp supercharger for either the XJ or XJL? It’ll increase their prices to $87,500 and $90,500, respectively. The top-of-the-line 5.0L XJ and XJL Supersport will start at a $112,000 and $115,000, respectively.

The 2010 Jaguar XJ is big, classy and expensive, but who said owning a big cat would come cheap?

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