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2012 Jaguar XF Preview


CarAdvice is in Germany test driving the new and improved Jaguar XF, the British company's best selling model worldwide.

The 2012 model year changes to the Jaguar XF are extensive, with an interior, exterior and powertrain update. An entirely new front bumper and grille have been put in place with daytime running lamps whilst the rear gets a new taillight structure.

The interior has also seen its share of upgrades with full Bluetooth phone and audio streaming support, native support for iPod/iPhone as well as a 30gb audio storage system connected to a 7-inch TFT full colour touch screen.

The big news is the introduction of a new entry-model 2.2-litre diesel, priced from just $78,990. Jaguar Australia expects that at least a third of its XF sales will soon come from the entry model, which is positioned to take on the Germans.

Powered by the new AJ-i4D engine, the 2.2-litre diesel delivers 140kW and 450Nm of torque. It can accelerate to 100km/h in 8.5 seconds whilst consuming no more than 5.4L of diesel per 100km.

As a result of its impressive fuel economy, it also misses out on a substantial amount of luxury car tax. Making it an excellent value for money proposition.

Driven around the hilly country side of Munich, the XF diesel performed exceptionally well. Thanks to the new 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox, the entry-model XF can cruise along easily and even overtake traffic on the autobahn at speeds above 200km/h. The 450Nms of torque are accessible across the rev range, delivering excellent pull when needed.

The intelligent start stop system turns the engine off when idle but can quickly restart without delay. Jaguar says the system is 40 percent faster than competitor's vehicles in achieving launch acceleration.

The XF also employs a system called, easy-off, which turns the vehicle off automatically and completely if the driver decides to get out (seatbelt release) when the engine is in a stop scenario.

CarAdvice is today driving the updated XF-R, so stay tuned over the next few days for a full comprehensive review of both vehicles. In the mean time, enjoy the gallery below.

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