Jaguar XF - first official pics

The most important Big Cat ever has finally been unleashed – and Auto Express has the first official pictures. After months of spy shots and a stunning concept car, the eagerly anticipated S-Type replacement has arrived.

As you can see the new XF is a radical departure from the retro styling of its predecessor. The sporty saloon features a low-slung coupe look similar to the rakish Mercedes CLS, while still retaining traditional Jaguar styling cues.

Inside is equally radical with hi-tech touchscreens and a glovebox that opens with just the wave of a hand. Equally neat is the hidden gear selector and phosphor blue cabin illumination.

Under the elegant bonnet is a choice of 207bhp 2.7-litre twin-turbo diesel and 238bhp 3.0-litre petrol, both taken from the S-Type. Also on offer are two versions of the 4.2-litre V8 – With either 298bhp or a supercharged 416bhp.

When it goes on sales in April 2008 prices will start at £33,900 for the entry-level diesel, rising to £54,900 for the top of the range SV8.

Check out these week’s Auto Express magazine for the full story and more exclusive pictures.