The Jaguar brand is coming off a banner year with sales more than doubling in 2016, thanks in no small part to its fresh-faced models, including the XF sports sedan. Redesigned for the 2016 model, the second-generation XF is a carryover model for 2018.
What's New for 2018
The XF receives minimal updates aside from the addition of a new engine, a limited-edition Portfolio trim, a gesture-activated tailgate, and more safety features such as forward traffic detection, forward vehicle guidance, and blind spot assist. Also, Jaguar revised the paint selection to better align with offerings from corporate sibling Land Rover.
Choosing Your Jaguar XF
A new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine joins the XF lineup as the entry-level powertrain. Producing 247 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque, vehicles equipped with this inline-four will carry the 25t designation. A supercharged 3.0-liter V6 will continue to power 35t and S models while 20d models feature a turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel. The V6 offers 340 (35t) or 380 (S) hp and 332 lb-ft of torque while the diesel has an output of 180 hp and 318 lb-ft of torque. All XF models are rear-wheel-drive and equipped with an eight-speed automatic. All-wheel-drive is available for all trim levels.
Fuel economy remains unchanged, with V6 models returning an EPA-estimated 20 miles per gallon city, 29 highway, and 23 combined while AWD configurations drop one mpg during highway driving. As expected, diesel models offer better mileage, with an EPA rating of 31 city, 42 highway, and 35 combined for RWD vehicles and 30 city, 40 highway, and 34 combined for AWD. There are no EPA figures yet available for the new 2.0-liter gasoline engine, but its fuel economy should land between the diesel and V6.
Forward traffic detection and forward vehicle guidance are new features added to the optional Surround Camera System. The former improves frontwards visibility while driving; the latter assists during low-speed maneuvers such as parking.
The new blind spot assist feature works in conjunction with blind spot monitoring and collision warning systems when changing lanes. Should an object be detected, the assist feature will alert the driver by nudging the steering in order to keep the vehicle within its original lane.
Even with few changes, pricing has increased for 2018 models. The XF 25t will serve as the new entry point with a starting price of $48,770 for RWD and $51,770 for AWD. Previously considered the base model, the 20d now starts $50,270, which is up from last year’s $48,445. V6-equipped vehicles will start at $54,960. All prices include the $995 destination fee.
Trims for the 2018 XF are:
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By buttressing the model lineup at its extremes with a new base engine and high-end trim, XF buyers are not without options. Those looking for premium features without the premium price will be more than content in a 25t Premium model with Cold Climate, Vision Assist, and Technology packages. Adding the smart key system still keeps MRSP under $60,000.
Jaguar has had its ups and downs in recent history, but it seems to be on an upswing as it fills out its lineup with volume-selling sedans while still sprinkling in some amazing performance models. The 2018 Jaguar XF spans this entire range with a thrifty diesel option, a fire-breathing supercharged V6 model, and everything in between.
While the array of options is nice, how does this do-it-all sedan stack up against others in its class? Keep reading to find out.
Best Value
There’s a slew of trim levels and engine options to choose from on the 2018 Jaguar XF, but the best value comes with the Prestige 30t model, which not only nets the more potent version of Jaguar Land Rover's 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder but also leather upholstery, navigation, a heated steering wheel, 19-inch wheels, navigation, an 825-watt audio system, and more without getting too pricey for its class.
Model: 2018 Jaguar XF Prestige 30t
Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
Output: 296 hp / 295 lb-ft
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Fuel Economy: 22 city / 31 highway / 25 combined
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
Options: Vision Assist Package ($2,580, adaptive LED headlights, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning), Technology Package ($3,265, 10.2-inch infotainment system with navigation, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and 825-watt Meridian sound system)
Base Price: $58,220 (includes $995 destination fee)
Best Value Price: $64,065
Performance
So many powertrains to choose from, but you only have two hands to drive with. The XF's engines range from a thrifty 2.0-liter diesel that delivers up to 35 miles per gallon combined to a potent V6 with 380 horsepower.
While the diesel engine is the fuel-economy leader at up to 42 mpg highway, the 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine is no slouch at up to 34 mpg highway. On top of that, this engine delivers 247 ponies that sprint this cat to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds. If you followed our advice and snagged the 30t variant, the same 2.0-liter gas engine pumps out 296 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. It's not as potent as the XF's old 340-hp supercharged V6, which the uprated 2.0-liter effectively replaces, but it still provides ample acceleration.
On the downside, none of these amazing engines have a manual transmission available, leaving the driver to depend on the still very good eight-speed automatic transmission to shift for them. The XF also incorporates a llghter steering feel and a bit more suspension lean, which some buyers may not appreciate.
Interior and Exterior
The XF boasts a sleek and stylish look that sets it apart from some of the German metal it competes with. Its recently revamped interior makes it more passenger friendly, especially in the rear seat. On top of that, its cabin is better laid out than many of its rivals, thanks to the clean and simple approach Jaguar took.
Moving into the Sportbrake model ups the ante. This wagon-like rig is not only stunning, but it is also a unique sight on the road. Unfortunately, it's limited to the 380-hp powertrain, making it a far pricier proposition than the XF sedan range.
Cargo room is yet another strong point for the XF, as its sedan can tote up to 19.1 cubic feet of cargo in its trunk. Opt for the Sportbrake model and open up 31.7 cubes of cargo room with the seats up and 69.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
The Best and Worst Things
Customizability is the XF's strong suit. With two body styles, multiple powertrain configurations (including a diesel), available all-wheel drive, and several trims, the XF is a versatile entry for all manner of luxury consumers.
While Jaguar Land Rover is moving toward electrification with plug-in-hybrid Range Rovers and the all-electric I-Pace crossover, it's disappointing that the alternative powertrain craze hasn't reached the XF yet. We'd really like a plug-in variant to challenge the BMW 530e and the upcoming Volvo S90 T8.
Right For? Wrong For?
Buyers that have grown tired of the BMW and Mercedes game and want something different will find asylum in the XF.
Buyers who want their luxury sedan to stand out in a traffic jam will likely not be too keen on this sedan. It's as understated as afternoon tea, an appropriately British character that may not gel with shoppers here in the colonies.
The Bottom Line
The Jaguar XF is an incredible machine that balances luxury, style, and efficiency nicely. It also offers a plethora of options for all types of buyers. But the sheer choice and the reserved look and feel mean the XF will only appeal to a select buyer.
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Specs & Features
Highlights
Overall Crash Safety Rating
This Safety Rating comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which evaluates how this vehicle performs in crash tests. NHTSA conducts frontal, side and rollover tests because these types account for the majority of crashes on America's roadways. This Overall Crash Safety Rating combines scores for these three crash tests.
Not Available
Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque
This Safety Rating comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which evaluates how this vehicle performs in crash tests. NHTSA conducts frontal, side and rollover tests because these types account for the majority of crashes on America's roadways. This Overall Crash Safety Rating combines scores for these three crash tests.
3.0L V-6 / 380 HP / 332 ft.lbs.
Transmission
This Safety Rating comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which evaluates how this vehicle performs in crash tests. NHTSA conducts frontal, side and rollover tests because these types account for the majority of crashes on America's roadways. This Overall Crash Safety Rating combines scores for these three crash tests.
8-spd Jaguar Sequential Shift w/OD
Drive Type
This Safety Rating comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which evaluates how this vehicle performs in crash tests. NHTSA conducts frontal, side and rollover tests because these types account for the majority of crashes on America's roadways. This Overall Crash Safety Rating combines scores for these three crash tests.
Full-time All Wheel
Fuel Economy - City/Highway/Combined
This Safety Rating comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which evaluates how this vehicle performs in crash tests. NHTSA conducts frontal, side and rollover tests because these types account for the majority of crashes on America's roadways. This Overall Crash Safety Rating combines scores for these three crash tests.
18 / 25 / 21 Mpg
Passenger Capacity
This Safety Rating comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which evaluates how this vehicle performs in crash tests. NHTSA conducts frontal, side and rollover tests because these types account for the majority of crashes on America's roadways. This Overall Crash Safety Rating combines scores for these three crash tests.
5
Bumper to Bumper Warranty
This Safety Rating comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which evaluates how this vehicle performs in crash tests. NHTSA conducts frontal, side and rollover tests because these types account for the majority of crashes on America's roadways. This Overall Crash Safety Rating combines scores for these three crash tests.