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BMW 535d vs. Jaguar XF

Muscular new BMW 535d meets Jaguar’s XF diesel in a heavyweight head-to-head

BMW 535d M-Sport

December 2010

As with all the best prize fighters, Jaguar doesn’t know when it is beaten. The XF saloon was our 2008 Car of the Year, but it lost its executive car crown last year 
to the new BMW 5-Series.

Now, the big cat is aiming 
to win back its title. The 3.0-litre Diesel S is the nearest thing to an oil-burning version of the hot XFR, and with the new £1,276 Adaptive Dynamics Pack, the car has 20-inch alloys and active dampers to fine-tune the ride and handling. 

Time doesn’t stand still in 
the competitive executive class, though, and BMW is ready to meet Jaguar’s challenge head-on. The new twin-turbo 535d model matches the 600Nm torque output of the Brit, but also produces 24bhp more power, at 295bhp. Better still, the arrival of this new 5-Series variant coincides with the introduction of M Sport 
trim to the range. It is expected 
to account for the lion’s share 
of sales across the line-up. 

The package includes a new front bumper and purposeful twin-spoke alloys – to ensure the model looks the part – while more supportive seats, moody anthracite headlining and a unique steering wheel provide a sporty flavour inside. Standard cars feature M Sport suspension, too, but ours is fitted with the firm’s impressive £2,265 Adaptive Drive set-up to provide the ultimate 
in chassis technology. 

This promises to be a classic encounter between two saloon car heavyweights, but which will land the knock-out blow? Will the Jaguar chalk up a surprise victory or will the BMW underline its superiority? We bring them face-to-face to find out.

For an alternative review of the latest BMW 5-Series visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk

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8 Comments

BMW5 vs JAG XF

I am a past and present 5series owner, not the current version, and I do believe that there has been a vast improvement since the departure of Chris Bangle - for the styling of a car of this calibre should reflect the preferences of a loyal band of past purchasers. This is where Jaguar beats the Germans 'hands down'. I must agree that this 5 is very pleasant on the eye externally but the cabin is still too modern for my taste. I will not be replacing my current car with the latest model and I am attracted back to Jaguar after more than thirty years. At my age though it is hard to justify this sort of price for any car and I guess I shall be looking at a smaller, less costly 'Quality' car.

By Gregorius on 30 December, 2010, 10:35am

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By zzjjj89 on 31 December, 2010, 1:16pm

I was recently in the market for a year old versions of both cars. I couldn't believe the lack of interest the BMW salesmen took in their product or potential victim; maybe in this part of Surrey they don't have to try very hard. Anyway, I bought the jag and haven't looked back (well you don't need to, it's got a rear view camera). And although like all car companies, the mpg claims are a PR fantasy, it returns over 40mpg on a fast motorway run.

By fleabane on 5 January, 2011, 5:37pm

Jag Wins hands down

Its almost totally irrelevant if it’s a new BMW or Merc, they cant match the Jaguar experience. Better in every way that actually matters to the “REAL WORLD” driver. Sit in one, drive one and you'll see. XF or XJ they both wipe the floor with the German competition. Lets face it BMW's image is damaged beyond repair by the sort of people who drive them and the way they drive them as though they stole them. Who or what is always one inch form your rear bumper? Oh yes, that’s right, a twit in a bland German rep mobile.

By agf30 on 6 January, 2011, 7:36am

Both Nice Cars! Hard Choice!

I like the cars in different ways the BMW for it's Sporting feel and that 'precision BMW build quality and feel'. The Jaguar for it's understated, classy elegance and charisma. At the moment, Id sway more towards the Jaguar, yes technically the BMW is fractionally better in some departments. But Ive really been impressed with Jaguar and their latest XJ and XK models two of the most desirable cars on the market right now. It seems Jaguar have that extra touch and momentum right now!

By JTravolta77 on 6 January, 2011, 5:03pm

Today's Jags are pretty unreliable!!!

I recently bought a Which? car review guide, and although Jags have excellent driving dynamics for their class, often beating BMWs and being cheaper than Beamers, the BMWs will cost less in repair, be off the road less than Jags, so what BMWs loose in initial costs, they gain in reliability and repair costs in the long run.

By leeothelion on 13 January, 2011, 10:30am

But the performance figures are for the standard XF V6 diesel - not the 's'

The text says this is a test of the V6 S Diesel Jaguar - but the 0-60 is for the standard V6 Diesel. The 'S' figure should be better - c 5.9 secs I believe?

By penncv3 on 14 January, 2011, 3:10pm

Sorry boys, I went to the launch of the Jaguars with my M3 2010 model, everyone but everyone was all over my car.
I test drove all models of the jaguar.
What did I buy, why the 550i M Sport 2011, nuff said,

By john550i on 14 January, 2011, 6:07pm

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Full Car Reviews

Jaguar XF

1st Jaguar XF

Brit executive looks good and is loaded with kit
BMW 535d M-Sport

2nd BMW 535d

Flagship diesel gets sharp handling and a sporty makeover in M Sport guise
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Facts and Figures

Verdict

Road test verdicts don’t come any tighter than this, and neither of these cars will leave you feeling short-changed. The Jaguar is the emotional choice, as its beautiful looks and unique cabin provide a feelgood factor that’s missing from the BMW. But a quick drive in the 535d throws a different light on matters. 

The German car’s incredible engine, brilliant gearbox and more capable chassis are enough to place clear daylight between our duo. So this meeting has all the hallmarks of a 535d win... until you look at the numbers. The XF’s huge specification and strong residuals cancel out the advantage of the BMW’s lower emissions.

You really can argue the case either way but, in this most focused of tests, the Jaguar has the edge. We’re not convinced by the styling tweaks of M Sport trim, and for all its ability, the BMW is too expensive. Victory here goes to the Jaguar.
 
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