This autumn will see the unleashing of the second generation Jaguar XF saloon, the British brand’s excellent new challenger in the executive segment.
It’s got the requisite credentials to take on the likes of the Audi A6 saloon, BMW 5 Series saloon and Mercedes-Benz E-Class saloon to be the best in class but what are the XF’s six secrets to its success?
Athletic design
Although it’s slightly more conservative than before, the latest XF’s nevertheless blessed with purposeful, sporty styling to reinforce its fine-driving credentials. R-Line and S versions have a more aggressive front bumper, muscular body kits and black, instead of chrome, exterior detailing.
Towards the rear there’s a higher boot lid promoting superior aerodynamics as well as decent luggage space and a third side window behind the rear doors to make the cabin feel lighter and airier.
More spacious interior
Not only does that extra window make the interior feel more spacious, it is more spacious with enough head and legroom to allow four six-foot adults to sit in comfort. The rear bench is wide enough for the back seat to not feel too cramped with three passengers sat abreast.
Despite the increased room front seat occupants will still enjoy that traditional Jaguar snug feeling with a high central console and superb new seats with improved comfort.
Stylish dashboard
Like the original Jaguar XF, the latest model still incorporates delightful touches like the rising gear selector and revolving air vents but overall it’s less theatrical than before – the central vents are now fixed, for instance.
Quality has been increased, though, and the main dash panel is still an aluminium plinth with different patterns depending on the specification, complemented by different coloured veneered trims. Portfolio specification XFs also benefit from a leather covering for the dashboard to lift the luxury further.
Raft of new technology
Dominating the dashboard is the standard InControl screen for the infotainment package – a huge improvement over the system in the outgoing Jaguar XF. This can be upgraded further with the optional InControl Touch Pro system, featuring a larger screen in addition to fully digital instrumentation.
There’s a wealth of technology employed elsewhere on the XF too, with various safety packages as well as being the first Jaguar to feature full LED headlamps as an option.
Best in class running costs
Despite the glamour attached to Jaguar as a sporting brand, the XF provides the lowest running costs in its class, thanks to its new range of 2-litre Ingenium diesel engines. In its lower-powered 161bhp form, mated with a six-speed manual transmission, Jaguar claims an average of 71.7mpg, equating to CO2 emissions of just 104g/km.
Jaguar expects the most popular XF to be 178bhp edition of the engine with an optional six-speed automatic gearbox which is still rated at 65.7mpg with CO2 emissions of 114g/km.
Excellent handling and comfort
There’s no compromise between handling and comfort with the latest Jaguar XF – this sports saloon will entertain on twisty back roads as much as it will delight with its cosseting ride over the roughest of roads.
Higher specification XFs also feature adaptive suspension dampers, allowing the driver to fine-tune their requirements for differing road conditions.
The steering too is well-judged delivering accurate cornering as well as a satisfying degree of feedback to your hands on the wheel.
Find out even more about the latest generation sports saloon with Parkers’ full Jaguar XF review.
