2009 Jaguar XF: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Jaguar XF replaces the S-Type as this British automaker's premium midsize car. Three trim levels are offered: Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Supercharged. All have a 4.2-liter V8 engine. Luxury and Premium Luxury have 300 hp, while Supercharged versions have 420 hp. All use a 6-speed automatic transmission with "JaguarDrive Selector," which uses a rotary knob for gear selection. The transmission also includes steering wheel paddles for manual gear changes. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. A navigation system with voice control is standard on Premium Luxury and Supercharged models and optional on the Luxury. The system allows passengers to also record voice messages for playback at a later time. Rear-obstacle detection is standard, and front-obstacle detection is available. Also available are a rearview camera, Bowers and Wilkins audio system, a blind-spot monitoring system, adaptive cruise control, and JaguarSense--a system that uses touch/proximity sensors to detect when an occupant wants to open the glovebox or activate the overhead interior lights.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize Cars sport interior dimensions similar to Midsize Cars. Premium Midsize Cars offer more luxury, performance, and prestige when compared to Midsize Cars.

Our Best Buys include the Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G37, and Lexus ES 350. Our Recommended picks are the Infiniti M, Jaguar XF, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Volvo V70.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Acura RL, Acura TL, Cadillac CTS-V, Jaguar XF, and Volkswagen CC. The BMW X6 is scheduled to receive a gas/electric model for 2009, and the Infiniti G37 is scheduled to receive a convertible model.