The World Opened by the New Generation Jaguar "XF" (Part 2)
The New Generation Jaguar "XF" Opens Up a New World (Part 2)
The "Jaguar XF" offers not only a sense of luxury but also a sporty driving experience. This new sports saloon hints at the future of the prestigious brand.
By Satoshi UbukataPhoto by Jaguar
My eyes were drawn to the starter button on the center console, its red light pulsing with changing brightness. As if invited, I pressed the button, and as the engine awakened, a sunken circular dial slowly rose to meet my hand.
This switch, known as the "Jaguar Drive Selector," is a quintessential expression of the XF's unique character. The XF's cockpit knows no conventional shift lever.
While the "P," "R," "N," "D," and "S" ranges are familiar, selecting them by turning a dial is a novel sensation. I expected to hesitate at its unconventionality, but in practice, it was immediately intuitive and easy to use.
As soon as I selected D range, the XF began to move with power.
A True Sports Saloon
The XF is available with three engine options: a 3-liter V6, a 4.2-liter V8, and a 4.2-liter V8 with a supercharger. Among these, the "XF SV8," signifying the "Supercharged V8," allows one to fully appreciate the XF's allure.
This power unit, inherited from the luxury sports "XKR Coupe / XKR Convertible," boasts an impressive maximum output of 313 kW (426 ps) and a peak torque of 560 Nm. Furthermore, it delivers a powerful surge of acceleration, as if a strong hand is pushing you from behind, with just a movement of your right foot, in any situation.
The SV8's steel monocoque body, which supports this performance, is exceptionally rigid, remaining unfazed even by inputs from the 20-inch tires. Of course, the supple suspension, which tenaciously grips the road during cornering, is still present. In essence, the XF, with its design, power, and handling, is a new generation Jaguar that lives up to the name of a sports saloon.
Left: Engines include a 3-liter V6, a 4.2-liter V8, and a supercharged version.
The photo shows the most powerful Supercharged V8.
Right: Blue illumination subtly brightens the interior.
Left: The rear seats offer ample space for legs and headroom. The premium "Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System" is standard on the top-grade "SV8" and optional on other models. Right: The trunk space is also generous, allowing for worry-free travel.
Where is Jaguar Heading?
Alongside this new model, the new environment surrounding Jaguar has recently garnered attention. It is well-known that India's "Tata" has acquired the prestigious British marque, replacing Ford.
While it's surprising that India, once a ruled territory, has acquired the British Jaguar, Tata is a major Indian conglomerate with substantial financial resources. Their statement, "We have the utmost respect for Jaguar and Land Rover and will maintain their identities," resonates powerfully.
Therefore, we want to believe that this acquisition will be a step towards growth for Jaguar, and we hope that the XF, introduced at this opportune moment, will be its driving force.
XF 3.0 Luxury - ¥6,500,000
XF 3.0 Premium Luxury - ¥7,600,000
XF 4.2 Premium Luxury - ¥8,700,000
XF SV8 - ¥9,950,000
Jaguar | http://www.jaguar.co.jp/