2019年捷豹XF Sedan

Since each trim is available with multiple engine options and multiple drivetrains, the XF range has a wide range of prices that should suit a multitude of budgets.

Prices start off at $49,965 for the 25t Premium as the only model to undercut the $50,000 mark. The cheapest diesel is the 20d Premium, carrying a base MSRP of $51,465, while the 30t Premium increases the asking price to $52,965. Prestige models start at $54,985 for the 25t Prestige, while the 20d Prestige asks a price of $56,485 and the 30t Prestige will set you back $57,985. The limited-edition 300 Sport carries as base MSRP of $63,810, while the 30t Portfolio asks $67,565. All prices mentioned are for the RWD versions of each trim, with all-wheel-drive available on all trims for a further $3,000. The range-topping XF S is AWD-only and asks $67,625 excluding tax, registration, licensing, and a $995 destination fee.

The Jaguar XF isn't necessarily better than it's German rivals but still manages to be memorable because of how different it is. Thankfully the ride isn't as harsh as some of its competitors which are trying too hard to be sporty and forget that cars like this are mainly used for day to day driving. It feels perfectly balanced between performance and luxury, without being floaty and manages to keep all but the largest bumps at bay. At low speeds, the shifts are smooth and barely noticeable, but as soon as it's needed it springs to life and is ready for action.

The brakes feel responsive and don't have any spongy feel to them, and more importantly, always feel consistent. The steering also manages the balancing act of not being too heavy or too light and with just the right amount of responsiveness.

The duality of the XF is the way it manages to swallow up great distances at pace, while the chassis becomes lively and excitable when pressed. It's not up on its toes, nor is it sat solidly on the road, but it's nimble on turn-in, stable under direction changes, and composed on the limit. It's the driver's sedan of the segment in a way few can match.

The XF is a very easy car to drive and responds well in most conditions. Whether at low or high speeds the cabin has an almost eerie silence and is quieter than its rivals. The only issue when driving the XF is the firm seats which are fine at first but can get a bit uncomfortable after a few hours.

The XF is a very handsome car that has enough style and character to take on some of the more popular luxury sedans, but still feels a bit rough around the edges. The broad range of engines, including an ultra-frugal diesel, are impressive, while the supercharged V6 caters wonderfully to those seeking a dash of performance in the mix. Jaguar pairs great powertrains with an endearing chassis offering a balance between superb handling dynamics and exemplary ride comfort. Practicality ranks highly, too, with an abundance of trunk space and spacious accommodation. Sadly, the build and general design are found wanting, and while luxurious materials are used, key elements feel cheap. While the spec-sheet may read well from a tech perspective, rivals all offer better equipment, particularly on the infotainment front, where the ten-inch system employed by the Jag just feels dated. It's the driver's car of the segment, but it comes at a penalty or two. It's just a pity these penalties are found in areas crucial to the success of an executive sedan.

With a broad spectrum of trims, engines, and drivetrains, there are a total of 17 configurations available n the XF line-up. Unless you're a rep covering thousands of miles in a month, we recommend skipping the diesel engine, as well as the base 25t motor and opt for either the most powerful four-cylinder option or the supercharged V6. If it's the latter you want, then the hot XF S is the choice for you. But if you'd rather have the four-pot, we'd recommend a stretch for the limited edition 300 Sport. It highlights the best attributes of the XF in its sporty driving dynamics, and bags a welcome mix of exclusivity, style, and performance, as well as a fairly impressive amount of features.

The E-class has an interior that's lightyears ahead of what the XF offers and also has way more features. The E450 which is a direct rival to the S model Jaguar makes 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque and starts at $60,450. The S makes 380 hp but costs seven thousand more at $67,625. The entry-level Jaguar XF Premium starts at $49,965, compared to the entry-level E 300 at $53,500. The Jaguar excels in the fuel economy stakes and has the best cargo space in its class, with some impressive rear cabin space compared to the E Class. It also has a comfortable ride and great handling, which may appeal to the keen drivers in the segment. The Jaguar may represent great value for money, but the E-Class is king of this segment, with luxurious appointments, stylish design, and high levels of tech standard across the range.

If the Mercedes rules when it comes to having plush interiors with tonnes of features, the BMW owns the performance and driving dynamics department, but when it comes to riding and handling, the Jaguar steps on the BMW's toes by delivering a fun and memorable drive. But it's slightly let down by its engine selection, with base models being lackluster while the XF S can't compete against the best in the 5 Series range. The Jaguar is, however, cheaper than the 5 Series, by almost $4,000 at a base level, but the best equipment is reserved for higher trim levels, which brings some parity to the matter. Overall, though, the BMW is the better buy, with compelling handling, impressive engines, a range of advanced tech and features, and a spacious, well-appointed cabin. It ticks all the boxes, while the XF excels in some areas and fails in others.