The Jaguar XF retains the finest traits of the old model and wraps them in a sportier, more efficient and better looking body to make it one of the most desirable cars in its class.
The Jaguar XF is available with a choice of two diesel engines and one top of the range performance petrol option. The two diesels available are the same ultra refined Ingenium 2.0 litre four cylinder engines as found in the baby XE model. These put out 165bhp and 180bhp respectively. A petrol option is only available in the XF with the ‘S’ model which packs a mighty 3.0 litre V6 380bhp monster. The 2.0 diesel is possibly one of the best in its class offering ultra refinement with a decent punch.
A clever suspension has been fitted to the Jaguar XF’s all new aluminium frame with double wishbones upfront and a clever integral link system at the back. What this means to you and me is that it efficiently keeps the body in check at all times to create the best handling possible. The new electric steering as fitted to the XE is excellent, direct and precise. This together with the XF’s low seating position and 8-speed automatic with steering wheel mounted paddles make for quite an enjoyable drive. There is also an option of the 6-speed manual but the auto option is so good at handling the power, particularly in the diesels that it is really the transmission to go for.
Inside the XF, there is a clear design theme that has been carried over from the Jaguar XE. The interior and dash layout of the XF is virtually identical to the XE’s. The XF is available in four trim levels, Prestige, R-Sport, Portfolio and top of the range S. The centre console design is taken pretty much directly from the XE with the slick 8 inch touch screen that houses app-based InControl infotainment system. It is a sleek and clean design that blends seamlessly with the low slung and sporty interior of the XF.
The build quality in the XF is second to none. It has the same attention to detail as the XE on which it is loosely based. You can really spec the XF up with the latest technology with items like the optional 12.3 inch TFT display that is housed in place of the driver instruments, allowing you to toggle between your dials and satellite navigation system. The design of the new aluminium monocoque means there is more space created in the interior without making the cars dimensions larger, meaning the maximum made of that space. If feels solid and spacious like a premium executive car should.
The new XF scored a full five star rating in Euro NCAP crash testing beating its predecessor which scored 4/5 stars. This latest XF is based on the smaller XE with the same engineering technology and underpinnings which also scored full marks in testing so its not that surprising the new XF achieved the same. There is a host of optional safety tech like laser headup display and all surface progress control which optimises grip on the weather and environment.
The Jaguar XF packs class leading legroom in the rear by an impressive 15mm over rivals like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class. Headroom is also improved over the old model meaning there is more than enough space for adults to sit comfortably for extended journeys. Boot space is better than most rivals too standing at an impressive 540 litres.
Arrange a