Jaguar has newfound confidence, according to company spokesmen. The positive attitude is inspired by the Brit brand’s most complete range on offer yet, helping Jaguar to break into other segments and find more customers... Namely those buying German options.
"Right now we’re in a fantastic position and we can turn that into something good for the market; [including] the Australian consumer," Jaguar Australia spokesman Kevin Goult told motoring.com.au. Recently Jaguar has had a “big 18 months” with the introduction of the new XJ, 2012 model updates for the XK, the release of the XK-RS and two concept reveals -- including the confirmed-for-production C-X16 -- and the updated XF.
Starting at $84,990 drive-away, not only is the XF 2.2 the cheapest Jag offered since the X-TYPE, it’s also the brand's first four-cylinder model and currently the most efficient option in the lineup, using stop-start function -- the first production Jaguar to offer the technology. A new eight-speed auto transmission can also be attributed to low figures: at 5.4L/100km for (combined cycle) fuel consumption and 149g/km CO2.
The XF's mid-cycle upgrade includes subtle interior restyling. The centre console has been remodelled to lower the auto drive dial and the start-stop button is recessed. A 7.0-inch colour screen between the speedometer and odometer replaces the monochrome version in its earlier siblings. Buyers can also opt for a high-end navigation system with voice activation.
More noticeable are the exterior changes, bringing striking 'J-Blade' LED headlights which resemble the original C-XF concept. At the rear, the Jag is identified only by the Leaper -- the lettered Jaguar badge now replaced with the brand's big cat emblem.
Two specification grades are offered: Premium for $78,900 (plus on road costs) and Premium Luxury starting at $86,100. Standard equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth streaming and eight airbag safety suite.
The latest XF is all about the new engine and transmission offering, however. The four-cylinder turbodiesel is a quiet, hearty unit good for 140kW/450Nm and the eight-speed is keen to shift at the slightest requirement. We averaged around 8L/100km driving through the hilly Northern NSW and Gold Coast hinterland region but expect to get close to official consumption figures during a week incorporating runs to the office and traffic, where the stop/start feature will help results.
The XF 2.2 addition will also help Jaguar Australia's results. According to Goult, his company has been missing out on a slice of around 46 per cent of sales attributed to smaller diesel options in the market.
Among the scheduled Jaguar-Land Rover roll-out of 40 new models in five years, Jaguar has "its fair share. We've got a lot coming up," according to Goult. With the backing of new owner Tata, "there’s never been a better time to be in this company," he said. "Our 'parent' is happy with what we’re doing and to put the investment behind the business... They’re heavily involved but at a working level they’re willing to leave Jaguar-Land Rover at what it does best..."
The XF 2.2 is available for order from dealers now. Our upcoming drive review will detail equipment further but in the meantime, XF's upgrade is supposed to bring it closer to the XJ so you can expect big things, even from this entry level Jag.
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