Jaguar has gone outside the box with nearly every aspect of the XF. Its look is fresh and bold. The interior design and technology are anything but retro. Unlike its competitors from Germany, there's no six-cylinder "base" model sold in the U.S. Perhaps trying to focus more beginner buyers toward the updated-for-2008 X-Type, you'll find no fewer than eight cylinders beneath an XF bonnet.

Buy-in begins with the aforementioned 4.2-liter, 300-horsepower V-8. The XF Supercharged ups the ante to the same blown, 4.2-liter, 420-horsepower V-8 currently huffing away in the performance-minded XKR coupe/convertible and XJR sedan. But BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz offer their midsize sport/lux four-doors with 450 to 500 horses. So that's where Jag is headed with the XFR.

Our intel suggests the XFR V-8 will share certain architecture with the current AJV8 engine, but employ, at minimum, a new block able to be sized at 5.0 liters and beyond. Atop that will be supercharging and intercooling. The result should be at least 500 horsepower in blown form, with a 400-or-so-horse, naturally aspirated version to come later, perhaps replacing the current supercharged 4.2. The XFR's transmission will remain the excellent ZF six-speed automatic, with paddle shifters as on the XKR, plus its own unique calibration.

Standard on the XFR will be 20-inch light-alloy wheels and speed-rated rubber, along with the usual cocktail of upgraded brakes, stiffer suspension tuning, a beefier exhaust note, and sportier interior trim. Visuals likely will ape other Jaguar "R" models, meaning a bit less chrome, wire-mesh front grillework, more aggressive front and rear fascias, a rear lip spoiler, and a slightly reduced ride height.

The XFR will show its production face sometime in 2008 as a 2009 model. Pricing has yet to be announced, but it'll be aggressively positioned against the M5 and E63, meaning a predicted base of just under $80,000.

Running With the Big Dogs
By Alistair Weaver, European Editor
Date posted: 02-24-2009


The 2010 Jaguar XFR sneaks up on you. You have to drive with one eye on the speedometer, cross-checking your perception of speed with the reality displayed in black, white and red. The XFR is not a raw-edged racing sedan; it's a supercharged 510-horsepower express that baits the BMW M5 with its sheer sophistication.

The Jaguar XFR is a fast, beautiful and very British challenge to the hegemony of German sport sedans, good enough to makes moustaches quiver in Ingolstadt, Munich and Stuttgart. If the introduction of the XF sedan last year woke Jaguar from its self-induced slumber, the 2010 XFR gives it a potent shot of caffeine.

With the 2010 Jaguar XFR, the guys at Jag have finally delivered the car they've been promising ever since Ford began pumping money into the company in 1990. It's ironic that new owner Tata Motors will be the one to get the credit.

As Always, It Starts With an Engine
It's been a long time coming, but the new 5.0-liter Jaguar V8 is finally with us. A naturally aspirated example will follow soon, but it's the supercharged version that concerns us here. It might be known as the AJ-V8 Gen III, but this is effectively an all-new motor with just two parts shared with the old 4.2-liter V8. The key technology in this R-Type application is direct injection, variable valve timing for both intake and exhaust, twin intercoolers and the latest Roots-type, twin-vortex supercharger.

Turbochargers have been in the news a lot lately, especially with BMW's decision to implement the technology in its street cars, but a new generation of supercharger technology has also recently arrived. Jaguar chose to continue its past work with supercharging in the interests of throttle response, efficiency and packaging. Now that AMG has largely abandoned the Kompressor, the use of supercharging also gives the Jag a key point of difference compared with its German rivals. The new engine is mated to the familiar ZF 6HP28 six-speed automatic, although it's been uprated to cope with the extra thrust.

And the thrust ratings are certainly impressive, as the Jaguar engineers targeted 500 hp in the belief that this is now a prerequisite for entry in the hyper-sedan club. To this end, the 2010 Jaguar XFR's supercharged 5.0-liter V8 offers up 510 hp between 6,000 and 6,500 rpm, with 461 pound-feet of torque between 2,500 and 5,500 rpm. This compares pretty impressively with the Audi RS6's ratings of 580 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, the BMW M5's output of 500 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque and the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG's 507 hp and 464 lb-ft of torque.

Get Down the Road
Those figures are impressive, even in a car that weighs 4,169 pounds. Jaguar claims the XFR gets to 60 mph from a standstill in 4.6 seconds on the way to the quarter-mile in 13.1 seconds. It accelerates from 50 mph to 70 mph in just 1.9 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. This is a thunderous car, and you don't have to work for the performance as you do in the naturally aspirated Merc or BeeEm. You rely not on the power but on the huge dollops of torque served up by the compressor.

This distinctive power production together with the superbly smooth gearbox is the key to the XFR sedan's stealthy performance. Plus the engine is so quiet that you're never aware that it's working very hard. Jaguar has all but eliminated the supercharger whine that always laid down a soundtrack to the old blown 4.2-liter V8, and the 5.0-liter V8 emits a deep, bass woofle that's never more than subdued. And just like the 2010 Ford Mustang and 2009 Ford Focus RS, there's a system in place to introduce engine sounds into the cockpit for a little more personality.

Nevertheless, this engine is actually too quiet. After all, if you've spent this much on a sport sedan, you deserve a bit of theater. The 2010 Jaguar XFR is another modern car that sounds better from the sidewalk than it does from the driver seat. Perhaps Jaguar might do well to offer an optional version of the new active exhaust system featured by the latest Jaguar XKR sports car.

A Sport Sedan That's Sporting
There are two significant chassis developments that the R-Type designation brings to the XF sedan: Active Differential Control (ADC) and Adaptive Dynamics. ADC is simply a differential that uses electronics to control the torque distributed to each wheel, operating only when required. The differential control works in conjunction with the stability control to manipulate the horsepower in all road conditions. It is hugely effective, enabling the car to pull away smoothly and cleanly with significant steering input, even on a wet surface.

Meanwhile, the Adaptive Dynamics system modifies the throttle and gearbox response depending on the way you're driving, while also altering the parameters of the continuously variable suspension damping. Put simply, it recognizes that you now want to play and will quickly switch to a more aggressive damping setting. As a result, you can take advantage of the suspension's comfort without having to sacrifice readiness for the fun zones.

Of course, this technology also makes the 2010 Jaguar XFR nowhere near as raw as an M5. The BeeEm demands your full attention, all of the time. The Jag isn't like that. The ride, while significantly firmer than a standard XF, is still pleasingly supple. Even with standard 20-inch wheels and tires plus a fast-acting steering ratio, the R-Type feels more sophisticated than the M-car. Yet this shouldn't be mistaken for a lack of talent, or ambition. The XFR sedan is stealthy, but still capable and entertaining.

The harder you try, the better it responds. You brake hard and deep into the corner (the front discs now measure 14.9 inches) to offset any initial understeer and then lean on the throttle pedal and ride the engine's torque. In high-speed corners, the XFR starts to feel lighter and smaller than it actually is, helped by crisp, accurate and well-weighted steering that's significantly better than that of the opposition. The six-speed ZF automatic is also an ideal foil for the V8, swapping cogs swifty with the aid of the shift paddles on the steering wheel and, in manual mode, refusing to change up without human intervention.

The stability control also has two modes: standard and track. In theory, the latter allows you to play a little, but it still intervenes strongly and relatively early. Of course, you can also turn the system off altogether, at which point the Jag can easily be tempted into glamorous, heroic powerslides, the sort of thing Jaguar development driver Mike Cross has spent a lifetime perfecting. The Jag XFR is much more amenable to oversteer than an M5 or an RS6. It isn't the Jag's default setting, but if you want to be a hooligan, it's happy to oblige.

The Look of Speed
The XF has been designed from the outset as a sport sedan, but the R-Type has given it an added dose of machismo. The chrome-mesh air ducts in the redesigned front fenders and the usual R-Type mesh grille are the most obvious visual changes that contribute to the car's aggressive new face. You'll also notice a deeper front bumper, louvers in the hood, extended rocker-sill skirts, a subtle spoiler on the deck lid, quad exhaust tips and of course the big 20-inch wheels inscribed with "supercharged." It's a comprehensive package that stays on the right side of tasteful.

The revisions within the interior are modest. You get discreet "R" badges on the steering wheel and fascia, a new twist to the aluminum trim, plus sport seats that move in 14 different directions. The only other tweak is to the instrument dials, which now boast a "supercharged" logo and a red needle. The Jaguar XFR remains a thoroughly nice place to be, even if there isn't as much room in the rear seat as you'd find in the Audi RS6.

The Price of Speed
The 2010 Jaguar XFR will come with a price tag of $80,000, which is a long way from the $52,000 of the entry-level XF sedan, but also a fair way below the supercharged $96,000 XKR coupe. Most important, the XFR sedan's price tag is $5,500 less than a BMW M5.

Just as with the XF sedan, the new R-Type probably won't get the instant badge recognition of a car from AMG, the M division or Quattro GmbH, but this new Jag deserves to run with the best. Handsome, massively quick and hugely capable, this car fulfills the XF's potential.

At last Jaguar is back in the game.

Jaguar UK has launched a high performance Police pursuit vehicle based on its award-winning XF Diesel S model. The first ever Police-spec XF is currently being evaluated by Police forces across the country.

Geoff Cousins, UK Managing Director for Jaguar Cars, said: "Police forces are looking for vehicles that represent value for money, have good environmental credentials and deliver the power and performance required of a pursuit vehicle."

The Jaguar XF beats other contenders in this market with a fuel economy figure of 42mpg, class-leading residual values and an excellent CO2 rating of 179g/km.

"The Police Officers driving pursuit vehicles demand a very high level of performance and handling, as well as safety and comfort."

The Police specification Jaguar features the 275PS 3.0-litre Diesel S engine with its unique, parallel sequential turbocharger system. Delivering high torque throughout the entire rev range, improved throttle response and low CO2 emissions, the twin-turbochargers work sequentially to deliver unrivalled response and best-in-class torque that means the XF packs a huge punch at all engine speeds.

"We hope that with this amount of torque on tap - and a 0-60mph time of 5.9 seconds, we will meet and exceed the exacting standards of any Police Officer driving this car."

The XF has picked up more than 20 international awards since launch, most recently 'Britain's Best Car' in the Auto Express Driver Power survey for 2009, 'Best Executive Car' at the What Diesel Magazine awards 2009 and the award for 'Best Executive Car' at the 2009 Fleet World Honours.

In the UK, retail pricing of the XF range starts at £32,900 for the 3.0-litre petrol. The 3.0-litre diesel model is available from £33,900 while the 3.0-litre Diesel S starts at £36,900. For more information go to www.jaguar.co.uk.

Jaguar today announced the introduction of the fourth and newest member of its acclaimed XF lineup, the 2010 XF Supercharged sedan. Joining the 4.2L and 5.0L naturally aspirated models and the range-topping XFR super-saloon in the U.S. market, the new XF Supercharged comes with a 5.0L force-fed engine pumping out a 470hp (351kW) and 424lb-ft (574Nm) of torque - a 12% increase in power over the 4.2L 2009 Jaguar XF Supercharged.

This bump in output is courtesy of the new 5.0-liter supercharged AJ-V8 Gen III engine that debuted at this year's Detroit Auto Show. However, it’s not just about more power. The new XF Supercharged also gets Jaguar’s latest ‘Adaptive Dynamics’ variable suspension damping system and the ‘Active Differential Control’ electronically controlled rear differential as standard.

The end result is a 0-60mph time of 4.9 seconds – just 0.2 seconds off the pace of the 510hp (380kW) XFR.

Other features include uprated ventilated disc brakes, 20in wheels, contrasting color twin needle stitching on the instrument panel and door top rolls, a unique Rich Oak veneer, a 440W Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system, HD radio, and a heated steering wheel.

The XF Supercharged will go on sale this October and will be priced from $68,000. As for the rest of the lineup, the 300hp (225kW) 4.2L naturally aspirated XF is priced from $52,000, the 385hp (287kW) 5.0L naturally aspirated XF Premium at $57,000 and the aforementioned XFR at $80,000.

Sadly, we Americans still miss out on one other XF variant, the XF Diesel S. This super frugal sedan is limited to European markets and is powered by a 3.0L commonrail turbodiesel returning 34.5mpg (6.8L/100km) in fuel economy.

The Jaguar XF sport sedan enters its third model year with a major powertrain change; for 2011, the 5.0-liter AJ-V8 Gen III direct-injection engine, already standard on the XF Premium model, replaces the previous 4.2-liter V8 in the XF base model. As a result, the entry Jaguar now offers 385 hp and 380 lb.-ft. of torque, substantial increases over the 300 hp and 310 lb.-ft. for the 2010 4.2-liter model, and can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds. The 2011 Jaguar XF is the only car in its segment to offer an all-V8 engine lineup.

New for 2011, all Jaguar models come standard with Jaguar Platinum Coverage, which includes for 5 years or 50,000 miles (which ever comes first) complimentary scheduled maintenance, no-cost replacement of basic wear and tear items including: brake pads and discs, oil and brake fluid changes and wiper blade inserts, 5 year/50,000 mile new vehicle limited warranty and 24/7 roadside assistance.

The AJ-V8 Gen III brings with it additional benefits to the base model with the inclusion of JaguarDrive™ Dynamic Mode and a service interval extended to 15,000 miles or one year versus 10,000 miles or one year for the previous engine. Dynamic Mode modifies the throttle, stability and transmission parameters (also Adaptive Dynamics on XF Supercharged and XFR) for a sportier driving experience. Front brake rotors are 0.15-inch (29mm) larger on the 2011 base XF, matching the XF Premium.

The 2011 Jaguar XF gains additional refinements for 2011:

• Redesigned side mirror bases further reduce wind noise.
• XF base model now features standard Burl Walnut veneer interior trim; Satin American Walnut is a no-charge option.
• Heated windshield now available on all models; packaged with heated steering wheel on base XF and a standalone option on other models.
• 6-CD changer now bundled with optional Bowers & Wilkins Premium Audio Package.
• 19-inch Caravela wheels from the XK now available as an option for the XF Premium (no-charge option if ordered with Portfolio Package).
• Artura wheels replace Carelia wheels as the 19-inch optional wheels on XF.
• JaguarSense® glove box opening sensor replaced by a pushbutton for more convenient operation.
• Black grille for XFR.
• New colors: Claret (not available on XFR); Polaris White replaces Porcelain (all models); Stratus Grey replaces Pearl Grey; Crystal Blue will replace Frost Blue in the first quarter, and Spectrum Blue is now available for the XFR.

XF

The Jaguar XF base model includes as standard a navigation system with voice guidance, Bluetooth® wireless technology for hands-free calling, and Satellite Radio. The XF Premium increases the luxury quotient with standard active ventilated heated and cooled front seats, Jaguar Smart Key System™ with keyless entry; soft grain leather seating surfaces and soft grain stitched and tailored instrument panel and door top rolls; Blind Spot Monitor; Front Parking Aid, and Rear Camera Parking aid with guidance lines on display.

The XF Premium can be augmented with the Portfolio Package, which is subtly distinguished by its 20-inch Senta alloy wheels and Figured Ebony veneer interior trim. Additional standard luxury expands to include a heated steering wheel; electric rear window sunblind; 16-way driver and 12-way front passenger active ventilated heated and cooled front seats, and a Jaguar Suedecloth premium headlining. The door top-rolls and instrument panel are trimmed with contrast color twin-needle stitching, and premium carpet mats feature contrast edge binding and embroidered Jaguar wordmark.

XF Supercharged and XFR

The Jaguar XF Supercharged and XFR are powered by a 5.0-liter direct-injection supercharged V8 engine that delivers 470 hp and 424 lb/ft of torque and can accelerate the car from zero to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds; the XFR delivers 510 hp and 461 lb.-ft. of torque and can go from rest to 60 in just 4.7 seconds. A twin vortex system (TVS) supercharger and twin water-cooled intercoolers are efficiently packaged in the engine’s V.

The XF Supercharged and XFR models share key chassis technologies for optimum handling performance: Adaptive Dynamics and Active Differential Control. The Adaptive Dynamics active damping system optimizes both handling agility and ride comfort. The system monitors body movement 100 times per second and wheel position 500 times a second and automatically increases the damping rate as the suspension approaches the limits of its travel. Adaptive Dynamics also controls wheel hop on uneven roads by rapidly varying the damping to move any wheel out of a natural bouncing frequency, benefiting ride comfort, handling and tire grip.

Active Differential Control optimizes available traction at each rear wheel, improving acceleration on low-grip surfaces while enhancing cornering ability. The clutch-type differential is operated by an internal electric motor and ball-and-ramp mechanism and transmits torque to the wheel with the most traction. This differs fundamentally from conventional traction control, which uses the brakes to counteract slip after it has occurred. The XF Supercharged and XFR also share the same upgraded brakes and silver-gray calipers.

The XF Supercharged and XFR are equipped with the amenities found in the XF Portfolio, plus the 440-watt Bowers & Wilkins Premium Audio Package and HD radio. Externally, the XF Supercharged stand apart with standard 20-inch Selena-style alloy wheels, quad polished exhaust tailpipes, a color-keyed lower rear valance, and a “Supercharged” trunk lid badge.

The 2011 Jaguar XFR is quickly recognizable with unique 20-inch Nevis-style alloy wheels; distinct front end design with a black mesh grille (new for 2011); chrome air intakes; "Supercharged" hood louvers; four polished exhaust tailpipes; an aerodynamically functional rear spoiler and side sills, and discreet "R" badge. A special acoustic filter at the rear of the engine, tuned to “tenor C”, feeds intake sound to the cabin under hard acceleration. The XFR exclusively offers performance-focused settings for the Dynamic Stability Control, allowing the experienced driver to extract more cornering performance.

The XFR features unique interior appointments, including an aluminum dashboard, satin or gloss wood veneers and twin-needle stitching on the instrument panel and doors. The XFR's multi-adjustable sports seats have power adjustable bolsters, leather map pockets and an embossed “R” logo on the seat surfaces. The lower steering wheel spoke is also leather trimmed, with an R logo.

All Jaguar XF models employ an electronically controlled, fully adaptive six-speed automatic transmission with the unique cast alloy JaguarDrive Selector™ as well as the Jaguar Sequential Shift™ function operated by steering-wheel paddles. The illuminated stop/start button pulsates like a heartbeat until pressed, and as part of the XF’s “handshake” sequence, the JaguarDrive Selector rises from the center console, and the rotating dash vents silently open. When the engine is stopped, the JaguarDrive Selector lowers automatically. The transmission is designed to be maintenance-free with “filled-for-life” fluid.

Leading Edge Technology

JaguarSense allows touch-sensitive operation for the overhead light, and soft, Phosphor Blue interior mood lighting provides halo illumination around certain switches. Standard on the XF Supercharged and XFR and optional on others, the Bowers & Wilkins 440-watt Premium Audio Package with Dolby® ProLogic® II surround sound and 14 speakers includes a hidden sub-woofer. The standard Portable Audio Interface allows simple, direct connection of iPods® and MP3 players with full control via the touch-screen or steering wheel-mounted controls.

The optional radar-based Blind Spot Monitor warns the driver when there is another vehicle nearby in a different lane. The optional Rear Camera Parking Aid provides a clear view of the area behind the car on the color touch screen when reversing; the touch-screen provides on-screen guidance lines that move according to steering wheel angle to indicate the area into which the car will reverse.

All XF models offer Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) as an option. Advanced Emergency Brake Assist uses the ACC radar to calculate both the distance from vehicles ahead and the speed of approach to those vehicles and pre-charges brake-line pressure. This can minimize impact speed if a collision is predicted, as well as give an audible warning to the driver.

• The XF Sportbrake is the most versatile derivative of the Jaguar XF
• It represents a compelling combination of elegance and capability - both practical and dynamic
• It extends Jaguar's design leadership in a new direction to create a desirable, premium estate
• Remote-fold levers drop the 60:40 split rear seats (with integral ski-hatch) to create up to 1675 litres of load-space
• A full five-seater with an additional 48mm of rear headroom
• New rear air suspension allows for self-levelling while load carrying with no dynamic penalty
• Jaguar's Adaptive Dynamics System - which continuously monitors the suspension and can adjust damping rates accordingly up to 500 times a second - is available on all XF Sportbrake derivatives
• Tailgate features 'soft-close' as standard, and can be specified with fully powered open/close functionality
• Acclaimed premium-quality interior materials used in the cabin are also a feature of the load-space
• Available with both Aero and Black styling packs from launch for additional on-the-road presence
• Driven by Jaguar's refined, powerful and efficient range of four- and six-cylinder turbo-diesel engines
• Matches the XF saloon for both aerodynamics, torsional stiffness and dynamic handling ability
• A range of accessories - both internally mounted by floor rails and externally by roof rails - extends the versatility of the XF Sportbrake still further

INTRODUCTION

The XF Sportbrake takes Jaguar's globally acclaimed sporting saloon and extends its versatility and practicality while retaining the model's core values of dramatic, muscular elegance, a dynamic driving experience and contemporary luxury.

"The XF epitomises the Jaguar sporting dynamic with its combination of innovative, seductive design and performance. In the XF Sportbrake this is complemented by a no-compromise approach to practicality and versatility."

Adrian Hallmark, Global Brand Director, Jaguar Cars

The XF Sportbrake builds on the extensive refresh received by the XF saloon for the 2012 model year which saw it adopt a more assertive appearance in line with the flagship XJ model - including striking new lightblade headlamp technology.

The XF Sportbrake is entirely new from the B-pillar backwards, endowing it with a very different aesthetic, exemplified by the tautly-drawn elegance of the side-window line and highlighted by its polished finish. The conjunction of flowing rear window graphic, rising waist and estate roofline lends the XF Sportbrake a dynamic, broad-shouldered stance.

The design-led approach that created the XF Sportbrake's exterior has been achieved in tandem with the goal of maximising practicality. The extended roofline affords rear-seat passengers an additional 48mm of headroom and the seats offer both a 60:40 split fold function and integral ski hatch. Remote-fold levers inside the load-space opening allow the seats to be stowed flat quickly and easily, creating a cargo volume of up to 1675 litres.

Befitting the XF Sportbrake's perfect balance between usability and beauty, it is powered exclusively by Jaguar's range of powerful, refined and efficient diesel engines, driving the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The 2.2-litre engine is fitted with Jaguar's Intelligent Stop-Start system, making it the company's most efficient powertrain to date, while the 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 is available in two states of tune, with 275PS in the range-topping Diesel S.

DESIGN

Launched in 2008, the XF introduced a coupe-like profile to the sporting saloon template and received plaudits worldwide for its seductive combination of dynamics, performance, quality, design and luxury.

Substantially redesigned both inside and out for the 2012 model year, the saloon is now joined by the XF Sportbrake which builds on the model's undoubted performance credentials and provides an additional level of practicality.

The Jaguar design philosophy is based on the smooth, uninterrupted flow of lines that lead the eye along and around the vehicle and this is readily apparent in the XF Sportbrake which, despite sharing an identical wheelbase with the saloon, is imbued with even greater presence.

The first of these elegantly simple feature lines begins in the propeller-inspired blades fitted to the side air intakes, leading the eye into the lower wing crease and then along the sills of the car and around the rear bumper. The second feature line runs up from the outer edge of the same intakes, defining the edges of the front wings before wrapping the entire way around the car, creating the XF Sportbrake's muscular shoulder line.

Sharing the same new lightblade headlamp technology as the saloon, the XF Sportbrake also adopts the new, more upright grille and purposeful bonnet, giving it an enhanced 'rear-view mirror' recognition factor. The lights themselves feature bi-function HID xenon technology and LED daytime-running lights arranged in a distinctive Jaguar 'J-Blade' pattern.

From the leading edges of the grille, strong feature lines rise over the bonnet, then seamlessly into the A-pillars and over the roof, defining the load area before flowing down to form the slope of the tailgate and rear bumper. The roofline itself is echoed by polished roof rails (when specified) that add both functionality as well as a strong feature element. The signature Jaguar side window graphic is here seen in its most elegant and elongated form, stretched backwards to the rear windscreen like a taut bowstring and highlighted with a brightly polished finish.

The clever conjunction of the side window graphic tapering down to meet the rising shoulder line not only emphasises the XF Sportbrake's strong haunches but also helps the rear roofline appear to taper elegantly towards the tail. This impression of fluidity is heightened by the use of gloss black finishers on the rear pillars, providing a wraparound effect in conjunction with the tinted rear screen, an aesthetic inspired by the superstructures of luxury yachts. The rear lamps feature LED technology for brake, light and indicator functions and, by their width and the manner in which they sandwich the chrome signature blade, emphasise the solid rear stance of the XF Sportbrake.

The XF Sportbrake is also available with two optional exterior design packages that serve to further strengthen the assertiveness of its appearance. The Aero Pack (standard on the 'S' model) adds a deeper front bumper, side sills and rear valance plus a rear spoiler enhancement - a tailgate spoiler being standard on all models. The Black Pack replaces the exterior bright finishes with gloss black and pairs them with similarly finished alloy wheels to create new colour combinations that are subtly distinctive and eye-catching.

"Creating the Sportbrake was a great opportunity for us to extend the XF's design aesthetic. The flow and connection of lines that lead the eye around the car result in an entirely practical estate car consistent with Jaguar's reputation for drama and elegance."

Wayne Burgess, Studio Director, Jaguar Design

INTERIOR

As with the exterior, the cabin of the XF has been upgraded to ensure it retains that essential Jaguar appeal, creating a sense of sporting luxury by using the finest combinations of premium quality, crafted materials, complemented by the use of intuitive technology.

A centrally-mounted touch-screen offers control of the navigation system and a range of other functions, while the switchgear features new soft-touch matt black paint and a soft phosphor blue illumination theme throughout. The metallicAurorafinish to the majority of the brightwork complements new aluminium and veneer accents. More sculpted, heavily bolstered front seats introduced for the 2012 model year hint at the dynamic potential of the car and feature a 'racetrack' design device that creates a sporting bucket seat aesthetic.

For the XF Sportbrake, entirely new rear seats, which allow generous seating for five, are comprehensively redesigned and feature an integral ski hatch and a 60:40 split. Rear passengers also enjoy an additional 48mm of headroom.

Remote-fold levers situated just inside the tailgate allow the rear seats to be folded down with just one touch to provide an uninterrupted load surface that is 1970mm in length. The practicality of the XF Sportbrake's load-space is further enhanced by its width which allows, for instance, sideways stowage of golf clubs. The tailgate features soft-close power latching and can be specified with a fully powered open and close function.

The load-space displays Jaguar's typical attention to detail as it is trimmed in materials identical in quality to the XF Sportbrake's cabin. The central portion of the load-space floor can be lifted to reveal an extra, hidden storage compartment and can also fold and lock into position to quickly and easily divide up the bay.

The practicality of the load-space is extended through the inclusion of a floor rail system, which allows the quick fitment and release, for example, of optional nets and retaining bars to compartmentalise the space. A wide range of accessories engineered for the XF Sportbrake will allow owners to extend its versatility still further by organising or extending its carrying capacity.

A towbar can also be specified - when not needed the tow-hitch can be removed quickly, stored in a dedicated stowage space inside the boot, and replaced with a rear valance cover to disguise its mounting point. When fitted with the towbar, the XF Sportbrake's Trailer Sway Mitigation system is activated. This uses the car's Anti-Lock Braking and stability control systems to reduce the risk of 'snaking' when towing.

"Jaguar is rightly praised for its design-led products but in creating the XF Sportbrake we were careful to ensure that this was balanced with the engineering integrity required to create an estate car that is as usable as it is enjoyable."

Andrew Whyman, Chief Programme Engineer, Jaguar XF

DYNAMICS

The XF Sportbrake firmly emphasises both the practical and sporting sides of its character through its powertrain choices. Exclusively fitted with Jaguar's range of four-cylinder 2.2-litre and V6 3.0-litre diesel engines, the XF Sportbrake offers an exemplary combination of refinement, fuel economy, low emissions, plentiful power and refinement.

The 2.2-litre four-cylinder engine is offered in combination with an eight-speed gearbox and Jaguar's Intelligent Stop-Start system, enabling the XF Sportbrake to offer the performance and driver appeal expected of a Jaguar with reduced emissions and improved fuel consumption. When the car comes to a halt a range of parameters are automatically assessed and, if suitable, the engine is stopped. A Twin Solenoid Starter then restarts the engine in less time than it takes the driver's foot to move from the brake to the accelerator. The system also offers 'change of mind' functionality, enabling the engine to quickly restart even during its rundown phase to allow the driver to, for example, exploit a gap in traffic at a junction.

Jaguar's 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine is offered in two states of tune in the XF Sportbrake, both mated to the same eight-speed gearbox that in all models offers driver control via steering wheel-mounted paddles. The range-topping 'S' model offers 275PS (202kW) and 600Nm (442lb/ft) of torque, fulfilling all the requirements of an enthusiastic driver.

Every derivative of the XF Sportbrake is fitted as standard with self-levelling air suspension at the rear to replace the coil springs fitted to the saloon. This system has been developed and tuned by Jaguar's chassis engineers to offer the same linear responses and ensure the XF Sportbrake offers identical dynamic attributes in terms of ride and handling as the saloon while keeping the car level even when fully laden.

Additionally, all XF Sportbrake models are available with the Jaguar Adaptive Dynamics system which continuously monitors the suspension and, courtesy of active dampers, can alter damping rates up to 500 times a second to ensure optimal stability and handling with no loss of comfort. The system also allows the driver - at the touch of a button - to alter suspension and throttle response parameters to increase the level of involvement.

The intuitive use of driving technology is also evident in the XF Sportbrake via safety features including Adaptive Front Lighting, which deflects headlamp beam into corners, while intelligent high beam functionality automatically switches between low and high beam when appropriate. Adaptive Cruise Control enables the XF Sportbrake to monitor vehicles around it, automatically braking should a slower vehicle be ahead, then resuming set speed once the road is clear. Operating in conjunction with Adaptive Cruise Control is an Intelligent Emergency Brake system which, in the event of detecting the necessity for a severe stop, applies maximum optimal braking force.

"The XF Sportbrake matches the saloon in both aerodynamics and torsional stiffness. The use of air suspension has allowed us to create a car that captures the unique Jaguar combination of refinement and outstanding dynamic abilities regardless of its load."

Mike Cross, Chief Engineer, Vehicle Integrity

XF SPORTBRAKE DIMENSIONS

Length: 4966mm
Width (inc. mirrors): 2077mm
Width (exc. mirrors): 1877mm
Wheelbase: 2909mm
Front track: 1559mm
Rear track: 1605mm
Load-space maximum length: 1970mm
Load-space minimum width: 1064mm
Load-space maximum volume: 1675 litres
Load-space volume behind rear seats, under tonneau: 550 litres
Permitted trailer load, braked: 1850kg

Jaguar adds 4-cylinder, V-6, 8-speed transmission and stop-start to U.S. models for 2013.

It's the company's first U.S.-market gasoline 4-cylinder, Jag says.

Last gas 4-banger was in 1948, never intended for the U.S., though some so-called "gray-market" units probably wound up here, the automaker says.

The changes are part of the U.K. automaker's attempt to tap technology for better mileage without disrupting the smooth performance that's part of the Jag brands image -- and usually comes from big V-8 engines.

The U.S. still won't get the European-market, 3-liter diesel, however. It can accelerate the hefty sedan to 60 mph from a standstill nearly as quickly as the new supercharged V-6 and uses less fuel.

Drive On got wheel time in a diesel XF in the U.K. awhile back, as well as some other European-market vehicles, and filed this report.

Jag begins selling the 2013 XJ and XF models in the U.S. September or October. The automaker expects to announce prices and more details in August.

Some highlights of the new hardware:

XJ and XF get an eight-speed automatic transmission. Tuned properly, that can boost both performance and mileage by coming closer to providing the exactly correct gear ratio for conditions than a six- or seven-speed transmission can manage.
Supercharged V-6 will be offered as an additional engine in the XJ and XF. In the U.K., it replaces the 5-liter V-8.
A 2-liter, 240-hp turbocharged, four-cylinder gas engine will be offered on the XF. It's like the engine in the Ranger Rover Evoque sold by Jag's corporate partner Land Rover. Jag says it'll be the first time for a U.S.-market four-cylinder gas engine.
Auto-stop/start will be on 2013 U.S. models. Shutting off the engine at long stop lights and the like makes sense as a way to improve mpg, but so far, not many car companies have been able to field a smooth-operating stop/start system. Drive On waits anxiously to see if Jaguar, the epitome of unruffled go-fast behavior, can actually execute stop/start that doesn't ruin the driving feel or annoy the driver.