2014 Fiat 500L: Stylish, Room For Five, Starts Below $20,000
Considering the Kia Soul, MINI Countryman, or Nissan Juke? You might want to hold out another few... Read More
- #2LEADERBOARD RANK
- 2662ARTICLES CONTRIBUTED
- 108COMMENTS POSTED
PERFORMANCE | 9 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
Steering is well weighted and precise.
Consumer Guide
The XF's variable-ratio power steering is magnificent, rich with feedback, arcing through its orbit smoothly, and transmitting a linear build-up of forces in corners.
Motor Trend
one of the best ride-and-handling balances in its class
Car and Driver
In high-speed corners, the XFR starts to feel lighter and smaller than it actually is, helped by crisp, accurate and well-weighted steering that's significantly better than that of the opposition.
Edmunds' Inside Line
an enthralling blend of power and refinement
Cars.com
A sole six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters works with all three engines, rocketing the XFR to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds, while even the standard XF can get to 60 in 5.5 seconds. Both of the supercharged models top out at 155 mph.
The rear-drive XF simply gets better with each step up the performance ladder. Despite an almost supercar-like thrust on tap, powertrains are deceptively smooth; the Jaguar XFR feels like an entirely civil car—until you open the throttle and access its full potential. The six-speed automatic transmission that's offered throughout the lineup—operated through a unique dial on the center console, and with steering-wheel paddle-shifters—offers smooth, perfectly muted shifts during relaxed driving but changes personality on full throttle, seemingly making the most of the engine's powerband.
Light, direct steering and capable brakes add up to a joyful driving experience, and with 20-inch tires and electronic systems like Active Differential Control and Adaptive Dynamics shuffling power between the rear wheels and adjusting suspension and steering firmness, the 5,000-pound Jaguar XF out-nimbles some of the less weighty sedans in its class. The steering feels just firm enough in corners—and is weighted perfectly.
Conclusion
Erase all those stodgy expectations of how a Jaguar performs; the 2011 Jaguar XF is a serious sport sedan, and the supercharged, 510-horsepower Jaguar XFR brings this Jaguar lineup into cheetah territory.
