XF Charts Jaguar's Future Direction

Where the S-Type took a retro-look approach, the XF takes what chief designer Ian Callum calls Jaguar’s design heritage cues and transforms them for the 21st century.

The car has a distinctly coupe look about its lines, giving it a lithe, sleek profile while delivering room for five adults and a considerable amount of cargo.

Jaguar calls the XF, due to go on sale here next year and already attracting orders, the beginning of a new era for the marque.

Every XF model has shift-by-wire transmission control with sequential shift system, which is used for the first time in a saloon. Shift-by-wire replaces manual shift linkages with electronic commands and gives rapid and very smooth gearshifts.

The Sequential Shift System gives the driver the option of one-touch manual gear change control via steering-wheel mounted paddles.

There are also multiple Jaguar Drive Control transmission modes, including Dynamic and winter settings, which interact with throttle progression, Dynamic Stability Control thresholds and shift strategy to match mood and conditions.

The XF debuts JaguarDrive Selector, a rotary shift interface that combines precise, intuitive control with space-saving packaging.

Air-conditioning vents present a flush dashboard surface until the ignition is switched on, at which point they rotate to the open position.

Another new technology – JaguarSense – introduces touch or proximity-sensing control for overhead console lights and the glovebox release.

Every level of audio system features at least eight speakers, with a premium system designed in association with audio specialist Bowers & Wilkins available on range-topping models.

Radio options now include a Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) system and Sirius Satellite Radio for the North American market, while the XF technology count includes Bluetooth communications technology, plus optional iPod and MP3 player connectivity with full-function control through the touch-screen – and an auxiliary port on every car for other portable audio devices.

Other available features include JaguarVoice control to operate audio and telephone functions, blind spot monitor, front and rear parking aids and rear camera parking aid, adaptive cruise control, automatic speed limiter, tyre pressure monitoring system and electronic parking brake.

High structural rigidity is at the heart of the new XF’s construction. The advanced body structure, which comprises high-tech materials and new-generation design techniques, maximises strength and minimises weight to give the XF superb performance, refinement and efficiency across its range of V6 and V8 engines.

The engines include what Jaguar says is the quietest diesel engine in its class and a supercharged V8 that delivers massive performance, including a projected 0-100km/h time in the five-second bracket.

High chassis torsional stiffness and a wide rear track give fine handling.