2009 Jaguar XF: Road Test

2009 Jaguar XF 

Select a Trim ▼

  • MSRP: $49,200 - $63,700
  • Invoice: $44,772 - $57,967
CG Rating

72

out of 110

About our Road Test

 (?)

Compare Vehicle

Previous Year's Reviews

View Another Vehicle

Our road test for the 2009 Jaguar XF includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Jaguar XF from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Jaguar XF, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Jaguar XF help you decide if a 2009 Jaguar XF is right for you.

Advertisement

ACCELERATION

Premium Luxury Supercharged Class Average
7 8 7.2

The non-supercharged V8 is satisfyingly quick at any speed. The Supercharged is faster still. No opportunity for us to time, but Jaguar claims 6.2 seconds 0-60 mph for non-supercharged models and 5.1 for the Supercharged. Both estimates are credible. The transmission provides smooth, fast shifts with either engine.

FUEL ECONOMY

Premium Luxury Supercharged Class Average
5 4 4.7

In Consumer Guide testing, XF Premium Luxury models averaged 18.2 mpg. A test Supercharged averaged 17.9 mpg. Jaguar recommends premium-grade gas for both engines.

RIDE QUALITY

Premium Luxury Supercharged Class Average
7 6 6.4

With its 19-inch wheels, the Premium Luxury is generally comfortable, though rippled roads induce nervous wheel patter. It also tends to thump over sharp bumps. Supercharged has 20-inch wheels, which are fidgety over bumps, with pronounced side-to-side motions.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

Premium Luxury Supercharged Class Average
7 7 7.2

Both Premium Luxury and Supercharged corner with good grip and little body lean. Supercharged is slightly sharper in fast cornering, but the tires' stiff sidewalls tend to follow every groove and crown in the road. Steering is well weighted and precise. Brakes are strong, but on one test car were touchy.

QUIETNESS

Premium Luxury Supercharged Class Average
8 8 7

Wind rush and mechanical noise are well muted. Both V8s have a pleasant growl under acceleration, but cruise quietly. Some tire thrum makes its way into the cabin on coarse surfaces, but it's never loud enough to annoy.

CONTROLS

Premium Luxury Supercharged Class Average
7 7 6.3

Gauges are unobstructed. Give Jaguar credit for eschewing a control-knob interface (a la Audi and BMW) in favor of a touch screen for most audio and climate functions. Still, many simple tasks require performing quite a few "virtual button" presses, and drilling down through several menu screens to access some audio functions. Redundant controls on the steering wheel help a bit.

DETAILS

Premium Luxury Supercharged Class Average
9 9 7.5

Quality wood, leather, and aluminum, with an abundance of padded surfaces contribute to an upscale ambiance. JaguarSense is an interesting novelty, as is the rotary-knob transmission gear selector.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

Premium Luxury Supercharged Class Average
7 7 7.3

Though not ample, space is adequate for most adults. A standard power tilt and telescopic steering wheel helps drivers find a comfortable position. The seats are comfortable with good support. XF's low, swooping roofline means tall passengers will have to watch their heads when entering or exiting.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

Premium Luxury Supercharged Class Average
4 4 5.2

Headroom is barely adequate, as is legroom if the front seats are pushed far back. Entry and exit require some twisting for taller passengers.

CARGO ROOM

Premium Luxury Supercharged Class Average
4 4 3.9

At 17.7 cu ft, the sedan's trunk is the largest in its class. Seatbacks fold flat, but headrests will have to be removed if the front seats are moved too far back. Interior small-item storage is good.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

Premium Luxury Supercharged Class Average
8 7 6.5

XF trades the retro styling of its S-Type predecessor for something edgier. It offers a fine balance of ride and handling along with impressive powertrain performance. For those wanting distinctive style and fresh, "gee-whiz" technological features, this Recommended premium sedan is well worth your consideration.

Total Score

Premium Luxury Supercharged Class Average
73 71 69.2

Total Score: 72

Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars

Low Score
60
Average Score
69
High Score
78

Car Buying Resources

Trade-in Calculator

Research how much your car is truly worth.

Trade-in Calculator

Used Cars

Search online classifieds and find a local dealer.

Search Local Listings

Vehicle History Report

Get a CARFAX Vehicle History Report. The first...

Get a CARFAX report

What's Under the Hood?

Learn about how cars work.

Learn Things

Insurance

We're dedicated to making insurance easier.

Get Insurance

Sell Your Car

Reach over 8 million buyers.

Sell Your Car
Advertisement

Locate a dealer

Sell Your Car

Advertisement