The 2013 Jaguar XF is offered in five different models--XF 2.0, XF 3.0, XF 3.0 AWD, XF Supercharged, and XFR. The base 2.0 model comes with a 240-hp, 2.0L turbocharged four. A 340-hp, 3.0L supercharged V6 in the XF 3.0. XF Supercharged models have a 470-hp, 5.0L supercharged V8, while at the top of the lineup is the high-performance XFR, with its 510-hp high-output version of the supercharged V8. All models come with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
XF 3.0 models are offered with an available all-wheel drive system (3.0 AWD), termed "Instinctive" all-wheel drive. These models include an active torque-management system--including a wet, multi-plate clutch--with more power sent to the rear wheels during normal driving and more power sent to the front wheels when needed for traction and stability. It also includes a Winter Mode that pre-loads more torque to the front wheels.
The XF 2.0 impressive engine provides the driving feel of a V6, thanks to a torque peak of 251 lb-ft reached at just 2,000 rpm--0-60 comes in only 5.7 seconds in rear-wheel-drive models. Yet it also earns EPA ratings of 19 mpg city, 30 highway. At the other end of the lineup, top XFR models can reach 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, and get to 155 mph; a special Sport Pack option raises the electronically limited top speed to 174 mph and adds special front and rear spoilers.
All models include steering-wheel shift paddles for performance and control. Step up to either the XF Supercharged or the XFR, and it comes with an Active Dynamics active-damping system that helps filter out bumps and irregularities while enabling an even firmer suspension for control under high-performance driving (as maximized with the 'Dynamic' setting). These two models also add an Active Differential Control to help get engine power out most efficiently through the rear wheels.
Both the entry-level XF 2.0 and the top-of-the-line XFR get essentially the same beautiful exterior--although the XFR stands out from the rest of the lineup due to its special aero package, a larger, lower grille in black mesh and outboard air intakes. A louvered hood and bright-finished tailpipes complete the look, while inside there are special 'R' embossed sport seats.
Cabin appointments in the XF are sporty yet very soft and luxurious, with leather upholstery plus an aluminum dash with satin- or gloss-finished wood veneers, tailored door panels and blue ambient lighting. On startup, the rotary shift selector rises from the center console and rotary dash vents automatically open.
Even the base XF 2.0 models come with a strong list of luxury features, including leather heated power seats, power heated mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power moonroof and keyless push-button start. With a Cold Pack the steering wheel is heated, as is the windshield, and Supercharged and XFR models include heated-and-cooled ventilated front seats.
Two option packages add luxury extras. The Portfolio Pack gets softer leather with contrast stitching; active heated-and-cooled front seats and a Suedecloth headliner, while the Convenience Pack adds an Interactive Voice system, a Blind Spot monitor system, a power rear sunshade and intelligent high-beam headlamps. Adaptive Cruise Control is also available as an option, and 2013 XF models with the navigation system get several new features: My POI (for point-of-interest searching and lists), Visual Lane Guidance (for help at intersections), and Dynamic Zoom (for a magnified image of an intersection or interchange).
Strong Yet Economical Powertrains
Excellent Ride And Handling
Graceful, Athletic Look
Glamorous Cabin
Available All-wheel Drive
Improved Tech Features
The Jaguar XF gets two new engines for 2013: the base engine option is a 240-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder while the optional supercharged V6 is all new. Powertrains in the V8 XF Supercharged and XFR models carry over--although there's a new Speed Pack option for high-performance enthusiasts. All-wheel drive is new to the XF lineup--and offered only in supercharged V6 models. Fuel economy for all the powertrains is aided by a new Auto Start/Stop system--in each of the V6 and V8 engines--that shuts off the engine to avoid unnecessary idling. All models in the lineup get a new ZF 8-speed automatic transmission.
The XF also gets a number of significant changes inside, including new premium audio systems from Meridian, plus an upgraded navigation and infotainment system with new Visual Lane Guidance, Dynamic Zoom and point-of-interest features.
With new, more economical powertrains, a new 8-speed automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive, the 2013 Jaguar XF lineup is no longer just a niche luxury car. It now applies to a much wider swath of upscale sedan shoppers. The new 2.0 model and its 30-mpg highway rating is surprisingly fuel-efficient, while the high-performance XFR at the top end of the lineup is more blistering than ever, with its 510-hp rating and a top speed of up to 174 mph with the Speed Pack. In addition to its graceful-yet-aggressive look and strong performance, the XF's opulent cabin appointments remain a standout; and updates to the infotainment system for 2013 make the new model fully competitive in terms of in-car technology.
