I miss the Jaguar.
When you consider all of the qualities of the 2010 Jaguar XF, mourning the lack of a silver Jaguar emblem on the hood of the car probably seems laughable. In my defense, I’ll just note that almost everyone who saw the loaner Jaguar I had also asked about the Jaguar. Old expectations die hard, I guess.
Perhaps giving the longtime emblem the heave-ho is one way the British company is proving that Jaguar is no longer for stuffy, rich people.
Emblem aside, mission accomplished. The styling of the XF — introduced last year — is certainly modern, with some auto journalists likening the styling to Apple computer products.
» Engine: 385 bhp 5-liter V-8 (as tested)
» Transmission: 6-speed electronically automatic with paddle activation
» MSRP: Starting at $57,000
The big news is the all-new 5-liter direct-injection V-8 engines delivering 510 bhp and 461 lb-ft torque. More about that impressive improvement in a minute.
Let’s talk looks. Of course, the first thing you’ll notice is the Aston Martin-reminiscent styling. A bold grille, sloped headlamps, revised bumpers, lower front intakes, and a stylish, sloping hood are only part of the story. Add to that sleekly revised bumpers and 19- or 20-inch wheels, and you see why the sleek yet athletic model is a standout in luxury sedans.
The plush design continues inside with an aluminum dashboard, satin or gloss wood veneers, tailored instrument and door panels with twin-needle stitching, and Phosphor Blue illumination and mood lighting.
Like other Jaguars, the start/stop selector pulses like a heartbeat until it’s pressed, and the interior louvers open and close automatically depending on climate setting. It’s extra touches such as those that win the hearts of those set on luxury.
As you’d expect, the cabin is spacious, the carpeting is rich, and the heated and cooled seats are especially comfortable. There was Suedecloth material on the seats of the loaner I drove, and they were incredibly luxurious but didn’t soak in the sun.
Now for the heart of the car — its engine.
Jaguar said the new engines are the automotive company’s most efficient ever, and they deliver power and performance at a higher level across the board. The new XF engine range I tested had a naturally aspirated 385 bhp version of the new AJ-V-8 Gen III engine, supplementing the naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V-8.
What does that mean to you? Absolutely zero hesitation whether you’re merging into traffic or speeding around a slow-moving truck from highway speed. As you’d expect, the 4-wheel disc brakes with an anti-lock braking system are stop-on-a-dime sharp.
There’s also a 510 bhp engine with 461 lb-ft of torque if you want even more muscle.
Jaguar said the engine’s power is increased by 29 percent and torque by 25 percent. The benchmark 0-60 mph acceleration time is 5.5 seconds (0-100 kph in 5.7 seconds) — 0.8 seconds quicker than the 4.2 XF. Better still, these improvements are achieved without hindering fuel economy and emissions performance. The new engines meet U.S. ULEV II/Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions regulations.
Plus fuel economy stays at a reasonable 23 mpg highway and 16 mpg city.
The Jaguar XF may be this year’s luxury sedan to beat.
