2010 Jaguar XJ makes its North American debut

Behold the all new 2010 Jaguar XJ as it makes its North American debut at Pebble Beach. Although we here at Carlyle Motor Club were snubbed on the invitation by the organizers of this event, we're sure it was just a slight oversight on one of the "higher-ups" part.

But we digress, as we've told you from our first encounter with the car a month ago, the new 2010 Jaguar XJ will be available in regular or extended wheelbase form, with one of three variations of the company's direct-injected 5.0 liter V8 underhood. The base models get a 385-horsepower normally-aspirated version; the XJ Supercharged gets boosted to 470 hp; and the top-of-the-line Supersport gets the XFR's 510-hp mill. Prices will range from a base of $72,500 to $115,000, making this one dear kitty. No matter the price, it's one striking sedan, and we can't wait to get some seat time soon.

Spy Shots: 2010 Jaguar XJ shows new sheet metal in Death Valley

We've already seen the 2010 Jaguar XJ in the sheet metal – once during its online premier and a brief jaunt around London. Now, the intrepid shooters from KGP have caught both a prototype and a near production version weathering the summer sun in Death Valley, and we're still evenly split on its styling.

Shown here for the first time in Frost Blue Metallic, the front end remains the most attractive iteration of Jaguar's new design direction, but the back – particularly the chrome accent the bisects the darkened C-pillar – is going to take some getting used to, particularly in such a light hue. Check out the gallery below for more real-world shots of the XJ rolling through California, and if you're in the area, keep your eyes peeled for Jag's newest cat.