The new Jaguar XF is built on the success of the 2016 X—a design that is dynamic in scope, yet refined so thoroughly that it never impedes excitement and efficiency. State-of-the-art technology and entertainment features keep you connected and in high spirits.
Jaguar boasts that the XF “is one of the most dynamic premium sport sedans of its generation.” I would simply state that the XF looks athletic and features supreme luxury while expressing desired comfort.
Jaguar’s design director Ian Callum describes it very eloquently, saying: “It is all about paring down to the bare essentials. Good designers have always said less is more.”
Yes, this Jaguar can be easily identified by a kind of design purity. The design lines not only make the vehicle more attractive but actually add to its aerodynamics, visibility, and stability.
The performance-oriented S model has 380 horsepower on tap from a 3.0-liter supercharged engine. Combined with an eight-speed transmission with shift paddles, it blazes 0–60 in 5.0 seconds. Going fast with class and style, the Jaguar fetches 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway for a 23 mpg combined.
My XF S had an Ammonite Grey color for the exterior, complemented by Ebony/Light Oyster with jet stitches for the interior, and rests on 20-inch wheels with Red Brick calipers.
Jaguar adds additional arsenals to its impressive driving performance with an array of standard features. These include a specially designed suspension system that balances comfort with driving safety and pleasure; Adaptive Dynamics that intelligently modifies the suspension settings and throttle response; Configuration Dynamics that allows you to manually set critical performance parameters such as throttle mapping and gear shift points; and torque vectoring, which applies throttle and braking to individual wheels while cornering.
The available AWD system uses Intelligent Driveline Dynamics, which distributes power between the front and rear wheels based on road conditions. Expanding on this road-sensing tech, the Adaptive Surface Response feature constantly adjusts engine and braking settings according to the road surface conditions.
The start button gets you ready for action as the engine growls. You notice the high-quality leather and finishers that give you a feel of luxury. Whether you choose aluminum, carbon fiber, or wood veneer finisher, it adds to the excitement of the drive ahead.
My Jag had leather seating surfaces, driver memory, 14-way power-adjustable heated front “S” sport seats, fold-flat rear seats, along with a heated steering wheel, moonroof, navigation system, and rear camera. These were just a few interior features that contributed to the ambience of the ride.
It was the little things that made the driving experience so exhilarating. An abundance of knee room, headroom, and legroom helps keep back-seat passengers comfortable. The 40/20/40 seating configuration and four-zone air conditioning give individual passengers the opportunity to set their own temperature and airflow.
I noticed the Interior Mood Lighting right away. The soft glow creates a welcoming atmosphere for your stay in the cabin. The SSD Enhanced Navigation guidance is displayed on the InControl Touch Pro infotainment system with a 10.2-inch touchscreen.
Media sources include Bluetooth streaming, HDMI, two USB connections, and a CD/DVD player channeling sound through the 825-watt Meridian Surround Sound System. The InControl apps provide a seamless connection with compatible smartphones, and the Connect or Connect Pro options provide in-car Wi-Fi for your smart devices.
This new Jaguar is stronger and more rigid but still achieves weight-saving with Jaguar’s Lightweight Aluminum Architecture, which results in a body with 75 percent aluminum. Aluminum has been used to form the body sides, hood, and front wings. Though it is lighter, with a weight saving of 265 pounds over the previous model, XF is stronger and 28 percent stiffer.
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $65,700 for the XF S. Optional features, like the Head-up Display Pack and Advanced Parking Assist with Surround Package (Surround Camera System and 360 Park Assist Package), could add thousands to the price.
The XF is now backed by best-in-class Jaguar Elite Care, consisting of a 5-year/60,000-mile coverage program. This includes New Vehicle Limited Warranty, Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance, Roadside Assistance, and Jaguar InControl Remote and Protect.
Dimensions
Width: 82.3 inches
Height: 57.4 inches
Length: 195 inches
Trunk Volume: 19.1 cubic feet
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this newspaper or at [email protected]
