As well as a full complement of front and side airbags, Jaguar XF safety is enhanced by a pop-up bonnet to improve protection for pedestrians should they be misfortunate enough to be hit.

Electronic stability control is also standard across the range and there is an optional blind spot warning system which illuminates a light in the door mirror glass if another vehicle is occupying the blind spot. However, the XF was awarded just four stars in the Euro NCAP safety tests.

With a boot capacity of 500 litres (540 if a puncture repair kit is chosen instead of the space-saver spare wheel) the XF has more space for luggage than any previous Jaguar and is competitive with other cars in this class.

There are a few other storage compartments in the cabin – the front door bins will carry a half-litre bottle of water very easily, plus the cup holders in the front can be used for storing other items. A parking aid pack with rear-view camera is optional.