Escape the hustle and bustle. A drive to set yourself free.
This weekend, I hopped into Kojima-san's Jaguar XJ for a drive to Tamagawa Futagobashi Park. About five minutes from the streets of Futako-tamagawa, as you leave the city's noise behind and reach the riverside road, the sky gradually opens up, and the view becomes filled with water and greenery. Driving along the riverside promenade and cycling paths visible between traffic lights, or cruising along the gently curving levee, offers a sense of liberation you just can't get by driving through the city. The XJ’s smooth acceleration and the comfort of the view from its low vantage point are the true joys of driving a sedan.
Extraordinary moments created by camping gear
I parked the XJ in the riverside lot and quickly pulled out some camping gear from the trunk. The long, independent trunk is surprisingly convenient, more than you’d expect from a sedan. The XJ, which usually carries a dignified atmosphere, takes on a strangely relaxed look when loaded with outdoor gear and parked near nature. Children playing on the lawn, families cycling, the sparkle of light reflecting on the river surface… just getting out of the car to enjoy the view adds immense satisfaction to the weekend.
I enjoyed a takeout coffee and a sandwich from a nearby café inside the car. Opening the windows lets in a pleasant riverside breeze, creating a quiet moment away from the city's noise. Looking out at the scenery while relaxing in the XJ's spacious seats makes an ordinary holiday feel a little more special.
Driving your favorite car turns it into a special scene
Cruising along the riverside with the engine's effortless response and firm ride quality is refreshing. A charm unique to Jaguar is the way it feels surprisingly compact, making you feel as one with the car despite its size. The sleek hood and the Jaguar mascot stand out against the calm, structured design. Every time it enters your field of vision, you feel both the joy of driving and its commanding presence.
The weekend riverside drive is made so much richer just by spending the journey there and back in this XJ. It is a luxury to speed along the side of nature in a sedan. It makes me realize once again that just getting a little way out of the city can make your time with a car feel so incredibly comfortable.
