Acceleration

3.0	4.2	R	Class Average
6	7	8	7

V6 models strong from a stop with ample passing power. V8 S-Types are plenty fast. Test 4.2 did 6.9 sec 0-60 mph, test R clocked 6.1. Smooth-shifting automatic transmission nearly always in the right gear.

Fuel Economy

3.0	4.2	R	Class Average
5	5	4	4.6

Extended-use 3.0 averaged 19.6 mpg over 13,948 miles. Test 4.2 averaged 19.6 mpg. Test R averaged 14.5 mpg, including gas-eating performance tests. All models require premium-grade fuel.

Ride Quality

3.0	4.2	R	Class Average
8	8	6	6.6

3.0 and 4.2 suspension allows mild float over large humps and dips, but ride is low-impact comfortable. Firmer R suspension a model of composure and absorbency, though stiff 18-inch performance tires thump over bumps.

Steering/Handling/Braking

3.0	4.2	R	Class Average
7	7	8	7.2

3.0 and 4.2 take turns with good grip, modest body lean. R versions have quicker responses, less lean, greater road hold. R has computer-controlled suspension that has minimal evident effect on ride or handling. Some testers find R's steering too heavy at low speeds. Braking short, stable in simulated panic stops, but pedal action feels touchy in routine driving.

Quietness

3.0	4.2	R	Class Average
6	7	6	6.9

Muted, classy engine growl at full throttle; R's supercharger adds slight whine. Wind rush modest. Road noise well-suppressed with 17-inch tires, though 18s rumble on some surfaces.

Controls

3.0	4.2	R	Class Average
7	7	7	6.8

Clear, classy gauges, but button-filled dashboard can be daunting without familiarization. Navigation system not intuitive and transforms some radio and climate controls into multistage touch screen operations. Though some buttons and controls are Ford-family generic, standard wood cabin trim, richly padded surfaces befit a Jaguar.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

3.0	4.2	R	Class Average
6	6	6	7.4

Cozy feel, due partly to high dashboard and small footwells. But roomy enough. Driver gets plenty of adjustments, including handy power tilt/telescope steering and power pedals, which link to the memory system.

Room/Comfort (rear)

3.0	4.2	R	Class Average
4	4	4	5.4

Enough head room for six-footers. Leg room barely adequate if front seats pushed far back. Toe space tight. Three adults are crowded. Sloped roofline means taller folks must guard their heads on exit.

Cargo Room

3.0	4.2	R	Class Average
3	3	3	4.2

Trunk not expansive, but usefully shaped, easy to load. Available split folding rear seatbacks add versatility. Small-item interior storage space meager.

Value within Class

3.0	4.2	R	Class Average
5	5	3	6.1

These Jaguars are a pleasure to drive, with appointments and features worthy of the class. On the downside, prices are steep vs. top competitors, and resale values pale vs. BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz rivals.

Total Score

3.0	4.2	R	Class Average
57	59	55	62.2

Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars

Low Score		49
Average Score		62
High Score		75