A complete change in format for Jaguar after the expansion of model ranges through the 1960s. The gamble was to produce a single model to meet the global market demands for a Jaguar saloon and this car was the XJ6 introduced in 1968. Mechanically it still utilised the XK twin cam engine with twin carburettors and retained the well established independent rear suspension. Front suspension was enhanced as was the steering and Dunlop even produced special tyres for the car. Stylistically the car still retained that Jaguar appeal with the four headlight treatment but now with a less prominent radiator grille. A revised rear treatment incorporated a Coke bottle ‘kick’ over the rear wheel arches and a tapering rear end. Internally the car was also new but yet again retained much of the appeal and layout of earlier Jaguar models.

Introduced with the standard 4.2 litre XK engine from the 420, there was also a new configuration of 2.8 litres to meet the demands of tax conscious markets. This engine was never used in any other models because of inherent problems with holing pistons. Launched as a Jaguar model only, by 1969 a Daimler derivative became available, badged engineered into the brand as the Sovereign. Later longer wheelbase models were also offered and in 1972 the new Jaguar V12 engine (first seen in the E-type Series 3) was also fitted to the XJ, creating the XJ12, both in Jaguar and Daimler Double Six versions, both long and short wheelbases. At the same time, now the business was part of the British Leyland combine, the Vanden Plas Coachworks in London hand finished Daimlers to create the most expensive Jaguar model of that period, the Daimler Double Six Vanden Plas.