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07/25/2008
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Jaguar Models
XF
XJ-Series
XK-Series

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Jaguar XF 2009 Review

Jaguar: The very name exudes speed, style, and sex appeal, and the 2009 XF, which has been on sale since March 2008 embodies all three qualities.  Modeled on the C-XF concept car, this Jag is a four-door mid-sized sedan destined to replace the S-Type, and in direct competition with Audi's A6, BMW's 5-Series, and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class.


The exterior design of the XF is simply a variant of its cousin, the XK. Both feature raked windshields and front fender vents, and the XF also sports an aluminum frame around the side windows and a sculpted hood. Reviewers have noted that the mesh grille (carried over from the concept car) doesn't have the same expensive look as the rest of the car, however, and some have grumbled about the headlights, despite the fact that they've been enlarged from the slit-like lights on the concept vehicle. It's also got alloy wheels in sizes ranging from 17 – 20 inches.
On the rear of the Jaguar XF, you'll find Aston Martin-esque LED taillights mounted high. (Apparently the Jag designers really like the Aston Martin, because they were criticized for making the XK's front end too derivative of the same.)


Inside the 2009 Jaguar XF you'll find a blend of the techy and the traditional. The center console plays host to a rotary knob that serves as a gear selector (it rises from within the console at engine start) but there's also an in-dash LCD touch-screen. Other examples of interior technology include proximity sensors in lieu of switches, buttons or handles for the glove compartment lid and reading lights. Instead, users must just wave their hands. (If you ever needed proof that Jaguars are not kid-friendly cars, this is it. Can you imagine the average five-year-old playing with lights and lids?

Hands-free lights aren't the only interior features, however.  Standard and optional features include front and rear sonar parking aids, both a blind spot monitor and a back-up camera, Bluetooth compatibility for cell phones, and inputs for USB jump drives, generic MP3 players, or actual iPods. There are three different options for audio systems, including one which includes surround-sound, and Sirius Satellite Radio is available as well. In addition, there are seats that can be heated and cooled, and a relatively large trunk that can be expanded by folding the back seat.


All the interior bells and whistles (or lights and sensors) are great, but what most Jaguar enthusiasts really care about is what's under the hood. In this case, the standard configuration is a 4.2 liter V-8 with the same six-speed automatic transmission and steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters found on the XK. There are special optimization modes (Dynamic, Winter) that control shift schedules, accelerator progression, and the stability system as appropriate for the road conditions, as well.
According to Jaguar, the standard version of the XF's engine provides 300 hp and accelerates from zero to 60 mph in about 6.2 seconds, while the XF with the highest trim level has a 420-hp supercharged engine that reduces the acceleration from zero to 60 mph to just 5.1 seconds. EPA fuel economy estimates are 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway for the standard engine, and 17/23 mpg for the supercharged version.
The supercharged version of the 2009 Jaguar XF also sports a Computer Adaptive Technology Suspension which controls body motion and helps smooth out bumps.
Those considering a Jaguar XF probably aren't comparing auto safety features, but this car does have a full complement of airbags, including head restraints, dual-stage and side-impact bags for the front seats, and side curtain bags for everyone. Antilock disc brakes and traction control are also standard features.
The 2009 Jaguar XF comes in three different trim levels, with the MSRP for the lowest at $49,200.