Automakers are in limbo right now because old models that were in the pipeline are reaching the streets at odds with the current economic situation and green climate attitudes. Recent examples include the Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Challenger, Cadillac CTS-V and Hyundai Genesis coupe – all planned during better times with cheaper fuel prices.
The Jaguar XF is the replacement for the old S-Type model, but the R model really turns up the performance and moves this car to another level.
The heart of this buttoned-down beast is an all-new 5.0-liter direct-injection supercharged V-8 engine delivering 510 horsepower and 461 pound-feet of torque. A sixth-generation twin-vortex system supercharger is fitted to the XFR’s engine. It is a compact Roots-type unit, feeding air through twin intercoolers, which in turn are water cooled by their own discrete cooling circuit.
All of the XFR’s power is transmitted to an enhanced version of Jaguar’s ZF 6HP28 electronically controlled, six-speed transmission. Additional clutch plates and an upgraded torque converter have been added for the supercharged V-8 to facilitate the extra power.
The high levels of torque produced by the new engine make it possible for the torque converter lock-up feature of the transmission to be used even at low speeds without slip. This approach provides an additional fuel consumption saving, contributing to the official combined fuel economy of 22.5 mpg.
Jaguar equips the XF models with a fully adaptive shift system. Flipping through the gears, I noted smooth gear changes.
This transmission continually adapts to suit your driving style. The “mechatronic” control module incorporated inside the transmission includes the software for the semiautomatic Jaguar sequential shift function, selected when you use either of the two steering-wheel paddles.
On the road you’ll be able to take advantage of the XFR’s active differential control and adaptive dynamics. The electronically controlled differential and suspension system work together to optimize traction under hard acceleration and cornering, which will come in handy should you approach the electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.
For shorter bursts, Jaguar indicates the XFR can do 0-60 mph in just 4.7 seconds.
The XFR also adds a faster steering ratio and uses the XF’s 14.9-inch diameter internally ventilated front disc brakes. The XFR uses unique 20-inch rims and tires that were specifically chosen to enhance the dynamic character of the car and optimize wet weather grip.
The biggest on-road difference between an XF and XFR chassis comes from two new advanced technologies: adaptive dynamics and active differential control – both are standard.
Active differential control with traction only functionality and handling is an electronically controlled alternative to the traditional, wholly mechanical differential, offering more subtle control strategies.
The ADC can vary its locking torque (and therefore the proportion of torque to each driven wheel) depending on surface conditions and power applied.
Adaptive dynamics is an active damping system that automatically adjusts suspension damper settings to suit both road conditions and the way in which the car is being driven. Adaptive dynamics allows the balance between ride and handling to be optimized whatever the circumstances.
Unlike other systems I’ve tested that were at times too hard or soft, the XFR’s system always seemed to have the car in the right mode to optimize the driving experience. I really enjoyed the way the car attacked the curves and hills of my test loop.
The XFR’s exterior is a blend of Acura and Lexus styling cues. Jaguar aficionados will be able to spot the raked windshield, small “leaper” emblems and taillights, unique 20-inch rims, a revised front end design with chrome air intakes, supercharged hood louvers, four polished exhaust tailpipes and the aerodynamically functional rear spoiler and side sills.
Inside the Jaguar tradition of luxury and refinement is represented well. I liked the light touch on the interior lights to turn them on/off and the accent lighting at night is nice. The hidden air vents are trick and the leather front seats are comfortable, but not extremely supportive. The cabin environment is uniquely Jaguar and in XFR it features full, soft-grain leather as standard; a new dark oak veneer is the standard finish for the XFR’s wood-trimmed areas.
The XFR is packed with user-friendly technologies. Distinguishing features include full shift-by-wire transmission controlled by the JaguarDrive selector along with cruise control with automatic speed limiter. The optional radar-based blind spot monitor warns the driver when there is another vehicle nearby in a different lane and XFR’s optional rear camera parking aid provides a clear view of the area behind the car on the color touch screen while reversing.
Comfort, luxury and craftsmanship continue to be XF trademarks. Adjustable power seats are standard on all models and my test car came with the optional heated and cooled seats and a heated steering wheel.
In the back, rear-seat legroom is decent; tall rear passengers will have little trouble getting comfortable.
So where does the XFR check in? The XFR starts at around $62,000; my test car added blind spot cameras, leather and wood inserts and adaptive cruise control with collision warning. The final total came to just more than $64,000.
The XFR was a big part of the deal to sell to new owners, Tata Motors of India.
Ford spent millions to develop this car and then simply handed it over. The XFR firmly upholds the Jaguar reputation, but it will be interesting to see if future models created under Tata’s watch can do the same.
2010 JAGUAR XFR
ENGINE: 510-horsepower 5.0-liter direct-injection supercharged V-8
TRANSMISSION: six-speed automatic
DRIVETRAIN: front-wheel drive
FUEL ECONOMY: 22.5 combined city/highway
BASE PRICE: $62,000
AS TESTED: $64,000
WEB SITE: Jaguar.com
VIDEO: Jill's bloopers
