Sedona, AZ – The Jaguar XF model is the middle-child that is larger than the mid-size Jaguar XE series and smaller than full-size luxury XJ sedans. The first generation Jaguar XF bowed as a 2007 model. The second generation launches with the 2016 XF appearing as a luxury sedan redesigned to be lighter, more efficient, filled with opulent materials, and equipped with the advanced driver assistance features.
Built using Jaguar’s aluminum-intensive architecture, the redesigned Jaguar XF is made up of 75 percent aluminum that is 28 percent stiffer and 11 percent lighter than its predecessors. The aluminum-intensive architecture tips the scales of the new XF at 175 pounds less than the competition, and up to 265 pounds lighter (AWD) when compared to last year’s model. The entire vehicle, along with having been redesigned to be lighter, is also more efficient and incorporates a full suite of high-tech features.
| XF 35t Premium | 3.0L Supercharged V6, 340hp | $51,900 |
| XF 35t Premium AWD | 3.0L Supercharged V6, 340hp | $54,900 |
| XF 35t Prestige | 3.0L Supercharged V6, 340hp | $56,550 |
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XF 35t Prestige AWD |
3.0L Supercharged V6, 340hp | $59,550 |
| XF 35t R-Sport | 3.0L Supercharged V6, 340hp | $60,650 |
| XF 35t R-Sport AWD | 3.0L Supercharged V6, 340hp | $63,650 |
| XF S | 3.0L Supercharged V6, 380hp | $62,700 |
| XF S AWD | 3.0L Supercharged V6, 380hp | $65,700 |
As part of the Jaguar brand’s realignment, the 2016 XF stable is offered in four levels of trim: 35t Premium, 35t Prestige, 35t R-Sport, and S. All XF trims are available with either rear- or all-wheel drive configuration, and both powertrains meter power to the driving wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. 35t Premium through 35t R-Sport trims get a 340 horsepower supercharged V6 engine, while the S models are powered by a 380 horsepower version of the same engine – a 3.0-liter DOHC, 24-valve, Twin-Vortex supercharged V6 with 150bar direct injection. The horsepower ratings for both engines comes at 6,500 rpm. Torque for the 340 horse motor is 332 pound-feet for both engines at 4,500 rpm. The XF V6 RWD model is capable of 30 mpg driving at highway speeds, representing a 9% improvement in fuel economy.
The all-new Jaguar XF series display a more vertical front end, a shorter front overhang, a longer wheelbase and new rear quarter windows. Mirroring the evolution of Jaguar’s design language, the sleek, coupe-like profile, long hood with deep power bulge and the short front overhang of the XF showcase its individuality without sacrificing its heritage. The new XF’s wheelbase is 2 inches longer while the overall length has been reduced by 0.3-inches. The front overhang is 2.6-inches shorter. Aerodynamics are improved by utilizing vents in the front bumper that channel air over the front wheels.
The XF’s interior features continue to be worthy of praise, with things such as the start-up sequence that bring the car to life as the rotary gear selector rises up from the center console and the air vents rotate into position. The strong, simple lines and horizontal feel and mature design language of the instrument panel –along with the use of quality materials, are befitting of the status of the all-new XF now that it has risen above Jaguar’s entry-level sports sedan position. There’s now class-leading space for rear seat passengers, an all-new 10.2-inch InControl Touch Pro touchscreen infotainment system as well as an optional, configurable 12.3-inch instrument cluster display.
During the national press launch of the all-new 2016 Jaguar XF series, my driving partner and I had the opportunity to experience both an XF 35t RWD in Prestige trim with the 340 horsepower 3.0-liter V6, which started at $56,550. finished with a Black exterior and a Brogue and Black interior, and an XF S RWD model with the 380 horse engine, a Quartzite metallic exterior with a Brogue and Black interior and a base sticker of $62,700., which rose to $73,035 after adding for the metallic paint, Comfort and Convenience Package, Luxury Interior Upgrade Package, Driver Assistance Package, Head Up Display and the Destination and Delivery charge.
I did not have the opportunity to drive an AWD version in either trim, but the XF AWD sedans feature Jaguar’s All-wheel drive Intelligent Driveline Dynamics (IDD) advanced control system that delivers rear-drive handling with added performance and traction advantages, along with an Adaptive Surface Response (AdSR) mode, which enables a smooth, effortless start on low-friction surfaces. RWD models utilize All-Surface Progress Control (ASPC), which was developed for low-speed driving in adverse conditions. ASPC automatically manages brake and throttle in delivering optimal traction on slippery surfaces.
SUMMARY: Both examples of the XF tested performed flawlessly, accelerating, stopping and maneuvering through sweeping curves with confidence inspiring stability and control. The cars perform like a ballet dancer, with poise and grace, quickly bringing a smile to the countenance of any driver.
Handling characteristics proved to be sporty, while the ride quality showcased Jaguar’s iconic luxury and comfort. The new XF allows the driver to select one of four modes that best adapts to desired driving scenarios and conditions via the JaguarDrive Control™: Normal, Winter, ECO and Dynamic. All-wheel drive models are able to differentiate between road surfaces through the Adaptive Surface Response system, which dials in the appropriate traction level adjustment, combined with Torque vectoring which increases agility when cornering by braking.
Infotainment and connectivity possibilities abound in the XF, both in terms of standard and available optional fare. Other Available new technology features for 2016 include: adaptive full-LED headlights. laser head-up display, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with queue-assist, intelligent speed limiter, and semi-automated parking.
Visibility was quite good and enhanced by the standard radar-based blind-spot monitoring system, standard front and rear parking sensors, with visual indicators shown through the touch-screen, along with a standard backup camera.
The 2016 Jaguar XF sedan is a joy to ride in, but even more of a joy to drive in virtually any scenario. It is certainly a far cry above earlier Jaguar models of old, and now much more reliable. The XF exhibits an elegant and equally awe inspiring persona, with a sleek, coupe-like profile that fits nicely between the XE and XJ series Jaguars. Class competitors include the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, Volvo S80, Lexus GS, Acura TLX, and Infiniti Q50. European and Asian luxury sedans beware. The all-new 2016 Jaguar XF deserves consideration when shopping for a luxury sports sedan in the $60,000 to $70,000 range.
On the TFLcar scale of:- Buy it!
- Lease it!
- Rent it!
- … or Forget it!
I give the 2016 Jaguar XF a Buy It! now that it is lighter, sharper, and much more competitive against the leaders in its class.
| JAGUAR XF 35t | JAGUAR XF S | |
| Base Price | $51,900 | $62,700 |
| Price as Tested | $52,895 | $63,695 |
| Engine | 3.0L DOHC, 24-valve, Twin-Vortex supercharged V6 w/direct injection | |
| Power | 340 bhp @ 6,500 rpm | 380 bhp @ 6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 332 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm | 332 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm |
| Transmission | ZF 8HP45 8-speed automatic – RWD / ZF 8HP70 8-speed automatic – AWD | |
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Drivetrain Layout |
longitudinally mounted front engine (RWD) or Jaguar Instinctive (AWD) | |
| Curb Weight | RWD: from 3,770 lbs AWD: from 3,880 lbs |
RWD: from 3,770 lbs AWD: from 3,880 lbs |
| EPA-estimated fuel economy (mpg) | RWD: 20 city / 30 hwy / 24 combined AWD: not available |
|
| 0-60 mph |
RWD: 5.2 seconds |
RWD: 5.1 seconds AWD: 5.0 seconds |
The 2016 Jaguar XF is all new from the ground up with more refined moves and a more conservative all-aluminum sheet metal. In this TFLcar “First Drive” review, Roman gets to know the car inside and out
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Arv Voss is a Northern California based freelance motoring Journalist and member and past officer of several noted Automotive Journalist organizations who contributes regularly to a number of national and international media outlets. He reviews not only cars, trucks and SUVs, but motorcycles and unusual wheeled vehicles as well. |
