2009 Jaguar XF

By: Juan G. Robbin

Jaguar XF (2009)
One Sexy Feline

The all new-for-2009 Jaguar XF has ushered in a new era for this fabled bespoke car maker. Gone is the classic Jaguar profile of yesteryear, replaced with a new, modern look that evokes a fresh, design approach.

Attention to detail is evident throughout the exterior of the XF. Finish and panel fit is noticeably better than previous models. Doors open as a proper British car should, with aplomb and heft. Once inside, you instantly notice a very clean and uncluttered dash design, this is mainly due to the flush-when-closed HVAC vents. Jaguar PR people call the vent rotation the “Jaguar handshake.” There is no traditional gearshift, making the center console look elegant and modern. Press the pulsating amber lit start button and the show begins. The air vents start their unison rotation to the open position as well as the PRNDL gear selector “orb” slowly emanates from its flush, stowed point. One can’t help but wonder how long it will be until “Prince Lucas” (Referencing the supplier, Lucas Electrics; popular in British cars of the past, Jaguar included, who had a less than a stellar reputation for reliability). makes himself known and wreak havoc on these neat show-and-tell items. I’ll bet that the chances are slim, as Jaguar has paid close attention to getting the interior not only right, but also bringing it up a notch in terms of the level of luxury this interior delivers to the owner. Still, I would love to get my hands on this car again in five years and see how well these two gizmos are holding up to the ravages of time and repeated use.

Jaguar has done a masterful job of making the interior feel exactly as one would expect from this type of car. It all seems to work harmoniously giving the driver and passengers a palpable feeling of luxury thanks to the blend of wood, leather and fine wool carpets. One thing we did notice where the turn signal and wiper stalks on both sides of the steering wheel column felt cheap and sloppy. Not up to par on how the rest of the cabin controls feel. Part of the luxury experience is perceived on the tactile feel of interior appointments and switchgear. There should be a discernable level of quality throughout and these two stalks do not feel that way. Seating is comfortable all around. Rear seats are good for two, tight for three people. Trunk space is typical for a midsized luxury sedan.

Driving the XF is an unruffled affair with a ride that is quiet and silky smooth, both on urban streets and on the highway. This car reminded us of a German sports sedan instead of a classic British automobile because of the ride and the nice balance of direct feel and compliant luxury. Acceleration is quick; handling is tight with excellent steering feedback. Brakes are strong yet easy to manage both under hard and easy braking. The XF we drove is the standard model, with a 4.2 liter, 300 HP V8. If you long for more power, no need to fret, there is a supercharged version of the XF that gives you an additional 120 HP.

Jaguar is serious about making cars that are reliable, exciting to drive yet beautifully designed. If you are looking at a mid-sized luxury sedan from Germany, the US or Japan you should include the Jaguar XF in your short list of candidates.

MSRP: $55,200.00  MSRP (As tested): $56,950.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 20.5 MPG
Engine: V8, 4.2 liter, 300 HP
Popular Options: Premium Luxury Warm climate package
Visit: www.jaguarxf.com