2011 Jaguar XF
XF Gets Jaguar Back On Track
The Jaguar XF, which replaced the midsize S-Type in 2008, has revitalized the Jaguar brand. Over 50,000 copies of the XF have been sold worldwide. Undoubtedly, the main reason for its success has been its styling. Jaguar got away from its old traditional design, and came up with a fresh modern look. The XF features a coupe-like silhouette, with a sloping windshield and nearly fastback roof. Sharp creases on the fender line and a power bulge in the hood give it a strong presence. This car turns heads.
Step into the XF and you’ll find a high-tech interior. This Jag features a clean, unadorned dash. The center section is finished in brushed aluminum. Also noteworthy is the absence of a traditional gear selector on the console. Press the start button to fire up the engine, and a couple of unusual things happen—the covers for the four air vent roll back into the dash, and a dial rises up from the console. This is the gear selector—twist it to the right and you’re ready to roll.
Yet, there is still an ample amount of Jaguar luxury to be found in the XF. The leather-clad seats display rows fine stitching on the edges. Matching leather graces the top of the dash and windowsills. And off course, a Jaguar wouldn’t be a Jaguar without burled walnut trim. A narrow band crosses the lower dash, and wider panels trim the doors.
The XF offers seating for five. Those up front have ten-way adjustable seats, and most people should find a comfortable position. Passengers in the rear will experience a tighter fit, although I was able to slide my 6’2”-inch frame into the back when the front seats were moved forward a bit. The trunk is spacious at 17.6 cu.-ft.
Last year Jaguar introduced a new 5.0-liter, 385-hp V-8 engine. This is the standard powerplant in the XF and the XF premium models. A supercharged version of this motor powers the XF Supercharged and the XFR. They develop 470 hp and 510 hp respectively. Teamed with the V-8s are six-speed automatic transmissions with manual modes and paddle shifters. My XF test car had the naturally aspirated V-8, and it was smooth and quiet around town, but when I stomped on the gas, it emitted a pleasing growl and surged to 60 in 5.5 seconds.
The driving dynamics of the XF nicely complement the power train. This is a car that an enthusiast will enjoy. The steering is taut, and conveys a good feel of the road. The handling is surefooted. The XF shows terrific poise negotiating switchbacks on a country road. The brakes are strong, and easy to modulate. Yet, with all of this handling prowess, the XF still treats its passengers to a comfortable ride—slightly firm, but comfortable.
Jaguar pricing starts at $53,000 for the XF. My test car was an XF, and it was nicely appointed with keyless push-button ignition, (but I wished it had push-button entry as well) heated front seats with memory, satellite radio and a touch-screen navigation system. If you upgrade to the Premium, Supercharged or XFR, features like a rearview camera, a blind-spot monitor and a Bowers and Wilkins sound system are also available. Prices for these model range from $57,000 to $80,000.
Jaguar has faced some hard times in recent years, but the Jaguar name still has magic, and the XF has this automaker headed in the right direction.
Snapshot Review:
Strong, Contemporary Styling
Innovative Interior
Excellent Power
Superior Handling
