The Jaguar 306PS is a 4,999 cc, V8 petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2015. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 32 — valve architecture, and direct fuel injection. In standard tune, it delivers 225 kW (306 PS) and 460 Nm of torque, providing strong high — revving performance ideal for grand tourers and luxury saloons.
Fitted to models such as the XJ (X351), XF (X250 facelift), and XK (X150 facelift), the 306PS was engineered for refined cruising and responsive th…
Jaguar
Production years 2009–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6780).
The Jaguar 306PS is a 4,999 cc V8 petrol engine developed for luxury saloons and grand tourers (2009–2015). It combines DOHC architecture with 32-valve cylinder heads to deliver smooth, high-capacity performance. Engineered to meet mid-2000s European emissions standards, it balances refinement with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 4,999 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 225 kW (306 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
Torque | 460 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (DFI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 11.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Valvetrain | DOHC with hydraulic tappets | |
Timing system | Double-row timing chain (front-mounted) | |
Oil type | Jaguar Specification WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 228 kg |
The Jaguar 306PS was used across Jaguar's X351/X250 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared design lineage with later Range Rover units. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-fuel mapping revisions in the XJ and enhanced NVH tuning in the XF-and from 2012, updated camshaft casting and oil feed passages improved reliability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The 306PS's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil change intervals or poor oil quality. Internal Jaguar field reports from 2016 indicated a significant share of pre-2012 units required camshaft replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows emissions-related failures are common in poorly maintained examples. Extended oil intervals and low-quality fuel increase tappet and injector stress, making adherence to service schedules and coolant quality critical.
Analysis derived from Jaguar technical bulletins (2009–2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The 306PS engine delivers smooth, refined performance but pre-2012 models had reliability concerns, particularly exhaust camshaft wear. Later revisions (post-2012) improved cam durability through updated oil feed design. Well-maintained examples with regular servicing, proper oil (5W-30 WSS-M2C913-D), and use of premium fuel can achieve high mileage without major issues.
Key issues include exhaust camshaft wear due to oil flow restrictions, hydraulic tappet noise, intake manifold vacuum leaks, and coolant leaks from the thermostat housing. These are documented in Jaguar service bulletins. Regular maintenance, use of quality oil, and timely cam inspection help prevent most failures.
The 306PS engine was used in the Jaguar XJ (X351, 2009–2015), XF (X250 facelift, 2011–2015), and XK (X150 facelift, 2009–2014) as the 5.0 V8. It was also used in the Range Rover (L322, 2010–2012). All models meet Euro 5 emissions standards.
Yes, the 306PS is moderately tunable. ECU remaps and performance camshafts can safely increase output by +30–50 kW on stage 1, leveraging the high-revving V8 architecture. However, over-tuning without supporting modifications (intake, exhaust, cooling) can lead to detonation. Higher stages require forged internals and aggressive cam profiles for optimal results.
In a 2012 XJ 5.0 V8, typical consumption is ~17.8 L/100km (city) and ~9.6 L/100km (highway), or about 16 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures vary, but 15–17 mpg (UK) is achievable with mixed driving. Fuel economy is competitive for its class and engine type in the late 2000s–2010s era.
Yes. The 306PS is an interference engine, meaning piston-to-valve contact occurs if the timing chain fails. The front-mounted chain is generally durable, but any signs of rattle or tensioner wear should be addressed immediately to prevent catastrophic internal damage.
Jaguar specifies 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting WSS-M2C913-D specification. This oil is critical for hydraulic tappet longevity and thermal stability. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 12 months, with more frequent changes advised for severe driving conditions.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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JAGUAR Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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