Jaguar XF vs rivals

The XF has landed. And you’ll know from last week’s first drive that we rate the exciting new saloon very highly indeed. But does that mean Jaguar has finally built a car capable of taking on and beating the world’s best executive models?

There’s only one way to find out: we’ve conducted an exclusive UK group test, pitching the Jaguar against its most talented and direct rivals from Mercedes and BMW.

Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the Jaguar XF

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And where better to start our three-day test than Coventry, Jaguar’s ancestral home? Especially since 2008 marks 80 years since the firm first set up shop in the city.

While cars are no longer built at the historic Browns Lane site, the brand still has a strong presence in the area – the XF was developed at the Whitley Engineering Centre on the outskirts of the city. Jaguar’s future may be uncertain, but the four-door is a product of the Midlands – and the most important model in the firm’s history. While the XK coupe is sublime, it’s not meant as a volume seller. The XF is, and needs to show there is life left in the Jaguar brand.

To that end it has a unique interior and shares its aluminium suspension with the £60,000 XK. And yet XF prices start at £33,900 for this 2.7D Luxury. That makes it the cheapest car here as it meets the BMW 525d and Mercedes E280 CDI. Together, they will test every aspect of the new Brit. Can it survive the onslaught?

Verdict

WE have a new executive class leader. The XF is brilliant: superbly designed inside out, as well as fantastic to drive in all conditions and cost effective to buy and run. Jaguar should be immensely proud of its achievement.

In comparison, the Mercedes is a bit plain. While it’s comfortable and easy to live with, the E-Class has none of the Jag’s sense of occasion. The lines are starting to age, it’s expensive to buy and run, and lacks personality.

The BMW comes closer to rivalling the Jaguar. It has a great engine that helps minimise running costs, plus a spacious, well built cabin and real driver appeal. Yet it’s let down by an austere interior and intrusive ride.

But the sleek, stunning Jag hasn’t won because of its rivals’ failings. It surpasses our high expectations by being the best to drive, look at, live with and own. We’re proud to say that the XF is a British world-beater.