Standard equipment includes a full complement of front and side airbags, Jaguar XF Sportbrake safety is enhanced by a pop-up bonnet to improve protection for pedestrians. The car has also got Adaptive Cruise Control with an Intelligent Emergency Brake system as an optional extra. In the event of an accident it detects the necessity for a severe stop and applies maximum optimal braking force.

The XF Sportbrake has not been tested by Euro NCAP but the Saloon achieved four stars when tested so we expect a star rating if not better.

The Jaguar XF Sportbrake fairs well when it comes down to practicality. It has a load space of 550 litres and with the rear bench folded this expands to 1,675 litres. It may not be the biggest car in the class but it certainly is one of the most attractive. Its main rivals offer more boot space when comparing to the XF Sportbrake, but the Jag fights back with some other nifty features.

Clever touches on the XF Sportbrake include a central portion of the floor that can be lifted to reveal extra storage space.

Jaguar has also added a floor rail system stopping parcels from rolling around the boot of the XF Sportbrake. There’s also an integral hatch in the rear seat making the carrying of skis a much easier affair.