Although prices initially seemed high compared with cars like the Audi A6 and BMW 5 Series, the Jaguar XF range starts with powerful six-cylinder engines and all models are very well equipped. Nowadays, it’s cheaper than most of these rivals as a used buy – making it a sound option.

Routine servicing costs should be lower than the other top premium brands, although they will still be more expensive than mainstream makes. For affordable Jaguar XF running costs go for the most frugal engine, which is the 161bhp 2.2-litre diesel that joined the range in 2011.

It averages a claimed 55mpg.

For low Jaguar XF emissions go for the 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine, which is the cleanest and greenest choice regardless of whether you choose the 161- or 197bhp versions. They offer 55.4mpg and 135g/km carbon dioxide emissions, giving them much greater appeal to the company car drivers who make up the vast majority of sales in this class.

Jaguar has made great strides to improve reliability in recent years and the XF should demonstrate this. Jaguar continues to score highly in customer satisfaction surveys both in the UK and the US.