Jaguar XF Review
The Jaguar XF was supposed to have been inspired by concept car Jaguar C-XF, but the finalised look of the XF varies greatly from that of the concept car, particularly around the nose and the front lights, which uses an oval mesh grille reminiscent of the beautiful Jaguar classic XJ in 1968. The boot lid retains the Jaguar S-Type’s signature look of chromed blade, except with a “leaper.” This dramatic look has made the Jaguar XF popular in the car leasing industry. Amber Rating – 5 Stars
Specs
This mid-size luxury car (also considered a “sports saloon”) is meant to replace the equally popular Jaguar S-Type. There are five available models in the UK: the 3.0-litre V6 Diesel, the 3.0-litre V6 Diesel S, the 3.0-litre V6 Petrol, the 5.0-litre “Naturally-Aspirated” V8 Petrol, and the 5.0-litre XFR “Super Charged” V8 Petrol. Amber Rating – 4 Stars
Performance
Both of the V6 and V8 engines of the Jaguar XF come with 6-speed automatic gearboxes. Among the most popular models in contract hire are the 3.0 V6 diesels, and it’s easy to see why. The S model 271bhp is very punchy, but even you just go for the standard 237bhp, you won’t be disappointed. If you would rather take a diesel for vehicle leasing, the 3.0 V6 petrol unit is a good choice, with the 5.0 V8 providing much more power that’s often not necessary for regular city and motorway driving. Amber Rating – 5 Stars
Ride and Handling
The Jaguar XF is one of the few vehicles out in the market that drives sharply but smoothly; its ride and handling certainly compensates for its higher price tag compared to its rivals. Low speeds feel a bit firm, and once you go a bit faster, you’ll feel the suppleness and control, perfectly balanced. Steering is responsive and grip is superb regardless of road conditions. Amber Rating – 5 Stars
Refinement
Just when you thought nothing could be as refined as the BMW 5 Series comes the Jaguar XF, which has virtually solved the problem of road and wind noise on the motorway. The engines of these refined cruisers sound even better when pushed hard. The automatic gearbox shifts smoothly; the sport programme is a little bit trickier, though. Amber Rating – 5 Stars
Safety & Security
The Jaguar XF’s structure is deemed safer than the previous S-Type models because they have been stretched specifically to meet crash safety. Standard safety features in the typical 2009 Jaguar XF include: driver airbag, passenger airbag and cut-off censor, front side airbag, side head curtain airbags, anti-trap device (in the trunk), panic button, and valet lockout. Amber Rating – 4 Stars
Ergonomics
Being one of the most spacious Jaguars, the XF noticeably has more headroom even though it manages to retain its trademark saloon-within-a-coupe proportions. However, headroom in the back is still a little tight. The good news is that the boot space of the XF has improved a lot compared to its predecessor. Amber Rating – 3 Stars
