Most frugal Jaguar XF under test

Introduction

Jaguar badly needed to update its image, an image that was encapsulated by the aging S-Type saloon. It was widely agreed that the S-Type wasn't a bad car per se, but its styling was an unsuccessful interpretation of a bygone era. Thankfully the new XF was given the green light, following on from the gorgeous XK Coupé with a distinctive, sporting and above all else, contemporary, four-door shape. The range isn't as extensive as available from the German marques, but in return Jaguar equips all of its XFs well and there is little to differentiate the models on the outside. We spent a week with the V6 turbodiesel model.

What are its rivals?

The usual suspects would come from Germany of course. That means BMW's 5 Series, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi's A6. Where as Jaguar currently offers just one diesel engine, buyers have two or three units to choose from each of its competitors. The 2.7-litre V6 turbodiesel competes with the mid to upper end of the market, which means the likes of the BMW 525d, Mercedes E 320 CDI and Audi A6 2.7 TDI may be on a buyer's shortlist too. The Jaguar is, on the face of it, better value though, with a comprehensive list of standard equipment. It's also worth considering the Lexus GS 450h in this company, though its compromised boot space would put us off.

How does it drive?

Despite XK Coupé-inspired looks and quite a sporting demeanour, the diesel XF is best when considered as a luxury car rather than a sporting saloon. When the V6 turbodiesel was first introduced by Jaguar it was heralded as a major step forward in terms of refinement and performance, but the world has moved on and this engine has not been updated. It is still commendably hushed and smooth, but its performance is no longer all that impressive next to newer machinery. Saying that, it's no slouch, though you sometimes feel the need to use the steering-wheel mounted paddles to summon up a lower gear.

Better to leave the excellent automatic gearbox do its own thing and waft along in comfort. Jaguar has always been renowned as a master of the ride/handling balance and though the XF is biased more towards comfort than it is driver appeal, it's still enjoyable to drive, with nicely weighted steering and controls throughout. However, if you up the pace, you'll soon realise that the XF is best when driven at moderate pace rather than at maximum attack.

What's impressive?

The transformation of Jaguar's image. Now, I know that this has probably not transcended the masses as yet, but in our week with the car we received several positive comments and gestures, as well as plenty of people checking out the badging on the rear to find out what it was. More than one person asked if it was a four-door XK. Admittedly, we're still not 100% convinced by the 'eyes wide open' look of the front, but the rear end is plain gorgeous and the overall effect is stunning.

Buyers won't be seduced by looks alone, so Jaguar has endowed the XF with one of the most exciting cockpits in the class. There are features, such as the 'heartbeat' start button, rising gear selector and swivelling air vents, that verge on being a little too gimmicky, but it feels like a very special place to be, especially so at night, where the ambient lighting can be experienced. It's comfortable too and spacious.

What's not?

In a word, the engine. It really needs more grunt, and word is that it will be getting it in the near future too. At the same time, there is probably room in the line-up for an entry-level four-cylinder turbodiesel, which focuses on fuel economy rather than performance.

Another slight annoyance was the willingness with which the traction control cuts in. Even in the dry, the slightest provocation had the light flashing on the dash and a momentary loss of forward motion. We're all for safety devices, but we believe that the XF should allow its drivers a fraction more control. It's particularly noticeable when trying to exit a junction in a hurry.

Should I buy one?

Now that Jaguar's future has been secured by Tata's takeover, worries about resale value and the like have been assuaged, so we'd definitely recommend the XF as an alternative to the German norm. Bear in mind that, in V6 turbodiesel format at least, it is not as sharp a sports saloon as the equivalent BMW, but in return it is more comfortable and well equipped. Our only hesitation with buying one right now is the likelihood that there's a new diesel option on the horizon.

Shane O' Donoghue