Jaguar XF R (09 on) - Review

Review by Dan Harrison on
Last Updated: 03 June 2011
The XFR is designed to appeal to the kind of car buyer who previously would have bought a powerful German saloon like the BMW M5 or Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG. It offers a tantalising blend of performance, luxury and cutting-edge engineering. At its heart is an all-new 5.0-litre V8 engine with 500bhp that powers the XFR to 62mph in less than five seconds and onto a top speed of 155mph. It's good to drive and is as happy to soak-up motorway miles as it is on cross-country B-road blasts. The package is completed by the stylish, modern interior that's not only beautifully crafted, but also matched to some of the latest in-car technology.
4.5 out of 5

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3.5 out of 5

Buying new

List prices compare well with the BMW M5 and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG - it looks even better value alongside the Audi RS6. The XFR is also well equipped, with some neat styling touches, such as the word ‘SUPERCHARGED’ embossed into the alloy wheels and the use of the ‘R’ logo throughout the cabin. It’s just a little strange that the upmarket Bowers and Wilkins stereo system is a £1100 optional extra, whereas on the much cheaper XF Portfolio model, it’s standard. It’s an excellent system with great sound reproduction, but unless you’re looking for top-end hi-fi quality on the move, the extra cost over the standard system isn’t warranted and you’re unlikely to recoup much of it when you come to sell.

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3.5 out of 5

Buying used

The XFR was launched in March 2009 – about a year later than the original XF range. With its bonnet scoops, ‘R’ badge detailing and four polished tailpipes, it’s easy to differentiate from the standard model. There are a number of details on the inside to remind you that you’re driving an XFR, including further ‘R’ badging (on the steering wheel, seats, instrument dials and on the touch-screen during start-up), distinctive sports seats and suede headlining.

  • Boot/Load Space Jaguar XF R (09 on)
  • Interior Jaguar XF R (09 on)

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4 out of 5

Selling

Around one-in-twenty XFs sold from 2009 is an XFR, so the market will never be flooded. There will always be strong demand for the XFR’s blend of high performance and top-end luxury, but not at any price. Selling shouldn’t be a problem, but expect to take a significant depreciation hit if you've bought it new.