2019 Jaguar XF

It’s not often that we recommend the highest possible trim as a value pick, but hear us out. The XF to have is the Sportbrake wagon. It’s wildly good looking, immensely practical, and exclusive in a way few cars can claim. The Sportbrake comes in two trims: Prestige or S. The Prestige is lovely, and it comes with most of the equipment we’d want on a luxury vehicle: leather seats, navigation, parking sensors, and the rest.

What it doesn’t come with is Jaguar’s suite of safety equipment, which must be added in a package. That package sends the price perilously close to $70,000, and it doesn’t even include the best features, like adaptive cruise control, parking assist, and a surround-view camera (which is a blessing on such a long body).

Instead, for just a few thousand more, you can get the safety tech standard along with a self-leveling air suspension and 20-inch wheels, all powered by an intoxicating supercharged V6. Next to one of the XF’s only rivals, the Mercedes-Benz AMG E 63 S, the value is genuinely good.

Yes, it’s still a splurge, but it’s a Jaguar – what did you expect?

• Model: 2019 Jaguar XF Sportbrake S
• Engine: 3.0-liter supercharged V6
• Output: 380 hp / 332 lb-ft
• Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
• Drivetrain: All-wheel drive
• Fuel Economy:18 City / 25 Hwy
• Options:None
• Base Price: $72,210 (including the $995 destination fee)
• Best Value Price: $72,210

Not every XF powertrain is a star, but most are good and you’re spoiled for choice. Offerings range from a mainstream turbo four-cylinder to a thrifty turbodiesel to a mighty V6. The 3.0t turbo engine is a good mid-range pick, offering respectable mileage and scooting the XF from zero to 60 mph in about five and a half seconds. An eight-speed automatic with wheel-mounted paddle shifters does a fine job managing the power. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is optional on all trims and standard on Sportbrake or XF S models.

Another bright spot is the handling. A perfect 50-50 weight distribution keeps the XF well-behaved in the corners, aided by athletic dynamics and accurate steering. It manages to be fun without compromising the ride, which is forgiving and composed.

Still, next to rivals in the German tuning departments, the XF is down on power. It makes up some of the gap with its exceptional handling, but it can’t match the M and AMG powertrains. Mileage isn’t inspiring on all models, although the base engine and the turbodiesel are frugal.

Style is one of the XF’s best attributes. It’s hard to find another sedan this stylish, let alone a wagon. And the wagon is something to behold – the long roof, imposing hood, and low-slung profile add up to a car that will turn heads. Inside, the cabin is comfortable and spacious, with plenty of leg room for four adults. Cargo space is even better, with 19.1 cubic feet in the sedan and a capacious 31.7 behind the seats in the Sportbrake. Infotainment is smooth, features are strong, and customization is ample.

We’re less excited about the interior design. It’s comfortable and functional but never quite inspiring, especially in the drab default colors. Fit and finish is good but just a hair behind rivals, and we miss the distinctively British luxury of the old Jaguar. Although numerous, options are expensive, and a few are frustrating. Smartphone compatibility is an extra $280, and safety features like automatic emergency braking still aren’t standard on lower trims.

We’d be tempted to buy the XF on its looks alone. But especially in this price range, we wish Jaguar could have livened up the interior a little.

The Jaguar XF is right for the luxury buyer who prefers their practicality to be exclusive and stylish. As BMW X3s fill the parking lots, the XF stands out more and more. You’ll still have plenty of room inside, and I guarantee you’ll have more fun behind the wheel.

The XF is wrong for buyers looking for a bargain, especially with the top safety features. The XF has the options, but it will make you pay to get them. It’s a lovely car, but luxury does come in cheaper forms.

The 2019 Jaguar XF proves that utility doesn’t have to sacrifice style. It’s one of the best-looking cars on the road, and it’s even a blast in the corners. Jaguar refinement comes at a Jaguar price, but this is one case where it might be worth it.