Long cranking is a fairly common problem in the Renix XJ´s. Various reasons that sometmes add up and cause really long starts.
The CPS reguires quite a few RPM´s, think the number I heard was 350 RPM, before it works right. The stronger the battery the faster the cranking, the quicker the start (not to mention a possible old/slow starter).
The ground wire from the battery to the block, is a known choke point, also slows down the starter a bit.
The fuel rail stays under pressure, though over the years it does leak down faster. Lower fuel rail pressure, means the necessary fuel gets through the injectors a little slower.
Leaving the key in the run position (for a five count or so), to give the fuel rail a few seconds to pressure up helps.
Mine have never gotten really bad, but on cold mornings, when the battery is a little tired, it can take a quick 7 count, before it fires.
A good tune up has also helped mine in the past, to fire a little quicker. But most of it seems to be the cranking speed and the fuel rail pressure.