A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.3/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
4.4
Comfort & Interior
4.6
Running Costs
3.7
Practicality
4.1
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a luxury saloon that combines British elegance with impressive performance? The Jaguar XF delivers exactly that with its sleek design, refined interior, and engaging driving dynamics. This executive saloon competes directly with established rivals like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class, offering a distinctly British alternative in the premium market. The XF stands out with its sophisticated styling, advanced technology features, and surprisingly sporty handling that makes every journey enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable motorway cruiser or an executive car that turns heads, the XF strikes an excellent balance between luxury and performance. The cabin offers genuine premium quality with leather upholstery and modern infotainment systems as standard across the range. Running costs are competitive for the class, especially with the efficient diesel engines that deliver impressive fuel economy. With its combination of style, comfort, and driving pleasure, the Jaguar XF represents excellent value in the executive saloon segment and makes a compelling case against its German competitors.
What's the Jaguar XF Like to Drive?
The Jaguar XF offers a well-rounded selection of engines that prioritise refinement and smooth delivery over raw power. The entry-level 2.0-litre Ingenium petrol engine produces around 250 horsepower and provides plenty of performance for most drivers. It delivers smooth acceleration with a refined character that suits the XF’s executive nature perfectly. For those wanting more power, the 3.0-litre supercharged V6 offers exhilarating performance with 380 horsepower, making overtaking effortless and motorway cruising supremely relaxed.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
2.0L 4-cylinder TFSI / 3.0L V6 Supercharged
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Power Output
250 - 380 bhp
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0-60 mph
6.8 - 5.1 seconds
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MPG Combined
35 - 42 mpg
- Boot Space
- 540 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★★ (Euro NCAP)
How Comfortable Is the Jaguar XF?
Open the door of the XF and you immediately understand why Jaguar has such a strong reputation for interior design. The cabin is a masterclass in luxury and sophistication, featuring high-quality leather surfaces, genuine wood veneers, and beautifully crafted details throughout. The dashboard design is both elegant and functional, with the Touch Pro Duo system providing crisp graphics and intuitive operation. The rising gear selector and configurable air vents add theatrical touches that make every startup feel special and engaging.
The Jaguar XF masterfully blends British elegance with refined performance, offering a poised driving experience. The Ingenium 2.0 and supercharged V6 engines deliver smooth power and engaging dynamics, while the luxurious interior sets a high standard. Though running costs are slightly elevated, its practicality and class-leading comfort make it a compelling alternative to BMW and Mercedes rivals.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Jaguar XF?
As a premium executive saloon, the Jaguar XF commands higher running costs than mainstream alternatives, but they remain competitive within its class. The efficient Ingenium engines deliver respectable fuel economy, with real-world figures typically ranging from the mid-30s to low 40s MPG depending on your driving style and engine choice. Insurance costs reflect the car’s premium positioning but are generally reasonable for executives and business users who typically drive these vehicles.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Jaguar XF
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BMW 5 Series
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Mercedes E-Class
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £35,000 | £37,000 | £38,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 2.0L TFSI 250hp | 2.0L TwinTurbo 245hp | 2.0L Turbo 255hp |
| Power | 250 bhp | 245 bhp | 255 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 6.8 seconds | 6.9 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 40 mpg | 42 mpg | 39 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 540 litres | 530 litres | 540 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Distinctive styling, Premium interior, Engaging dynamics | Advanced tech, Efficient engines, Strong residuals | Luxurious cabin, Smooth ride, Comprehensive equipment |
Is the Jaguar XF Practical for Everyday Use?
For an executive saloon, the Jaguar XF offers impressive practical credentials that make it suitable for both business and family use. The 540-litre boot is generously sized and well-shaped, easily accommodating multiple suitcases or a substantial weekly shop. The loading lip is reasonably low, and the rear seats fold to extend cargo capacity when needed. Interior storage is thoughtfully arranged with useful cubbyholes, door pockets, and a practical centre console that keeps everyday items organised and within easy reach.
Absolutely love my XF. The interior quality is outstanding and it drives beautifully on both city streets and country roads. The tech takes some getting used to, but once you master it, everything works perfectly. It’s a genuine pleasure to drive every day.
The Jaguar XF stands out in the competitive executive saloon market by offering a distinctive blend of British luxury, modern technology, and engaging driving dynamics. It successfully combines sophisticated styling with practical everyday usability, creating a car that works equally well for business meetings and weekend getaways. The beautifully crafted interior and smooth, refined driving experience make every journey feel special and memorable.