This is one of two cars Jaguar bought into New Zealand to set a sub-$100k price point against the Germans in the most popular segment of the luxury market. The XF is Jaguar’s mid-sized sedan, replacing the X-Type and slotting in under the larger XJ. There are five engine choices in the XF range, each one mated to a classy eight-speed automatic gearbox. A 2-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesel are the entry-level powerplants, both borrowed from previous Jaguar owner Ford. Inside, there is very little to distinguish one XF from another. You would need to go to the options list to do that. Slide into the driver’s seat and the feeling is part gentlemen’s club, part pit crew: club-like because of the obvious luxury-car ambiance, crew-like because the engine start button also starts a chain of harmonious events. The ambiance is the same in the rear seats, although leg and head room isn’t as generous for taller passengers. The long but shallow boot offers upwards of 500 litres of luggage space. Folding down the rear seatbacks almost doubles it. On the road, the abundance of torque from the reasonably quiet diesel allows the XF to be both lusty and lazy. Ride is right up there and handling is accurate and predictable. The suspension is as good as it gets, soaking up all but the worst surfaces without affecting body control. In short, the 2.2-litre oil-burning Jag is a standout.

Good features
Delightful cabin, styling, fuel economy, gearbox, ride and handling.

Not so good
Bit cramped in the rear for taller passengers.

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