By Khulekani Dumisa

SUVs may be taking over this segment and the Germans may have a lead over the Jaguar XF but the British marquee is not giving up on its luxurious and sporty midsized sedan just yet. In fact the XF has received a refresh in almost all departments.

Updated exterior

The exterior features a wider front grille with a mesh design detail inspired by Jaguar’s heritage logo.  This is complemented by new front bumper with larger and lower air intakes. Moving to the side, the fender vents now feature the iconic Leaper emblem. At the back, the XF sees the introduction of a wider bumper and body-coloured rear upper valance. This is finished off by darkened rear light surrounds.

Premium LED technology is fitted as standard across the range and is available with Auto High Beam Assist on SE and HSE models. The technology uses the forward-facing camera to automatically switch between high and low beam, ensuring that oncoming drivers aren’t dazzled. Animated Directional Indicators are also available as an option upgrade.  

New super slim all-LED quad headlights with ‘Double J’ Daytime Running Light (DRL) signatures are available with optional Pixel LED technology. With Adaptive Driving Beam capability, which evaluates the road ahead and automatically adapts the high beam light to mask oncoming traffic or traffic signs, the system can create varying light beam patterns by selecting different LED segments to optimise visibility without distracting other drivers. 

Jaguar says the new XF features a series of distinct design elements for a more performance-focused look in R-Dynamic specification.

Customers can choose from S, R-Dynamic SE and R-Dynamic HSE specification packs. All models are available with the additional Black Exterior Pack.                                                                            

Interior

Inside, a new sporty centre console featuring an optional wireless device charger with phone signal booster is introduced. Taking a prominent role is the 11.4-inch curved-glass HD touchscreen that is surrounded by a magnesium alloy casing. The system runs the new Pivi Pro infotainment system. The intuitive new infotainment system features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard and allows customers to connect two phones simultaneously via Bluetooth. Meanwhile, the drive gets a new 12.3-inch HD Interactive Driver Display.

The introduction of new technology does not mean more visits to the dealership for updates but the standard Software-Over-The-Air (SOTA) capability ensures that the XF is always using the latest software.

The XF sees material upgrades with open-pore wood veneers and aluminium adorning upper door insert. Laser-etched mid-line speaker frets and JaguarDrive Control operated via a metallic rotary dial are also part of the package.

The new Drive Selector features an upper section finished with ‘cricket-ball’ stitching, the lower part being made of “precision-engineered” metal for enhanced tactility.

New door casings get a new 360-degree grab handle which provides easier access and increased storage for drinks bottles and other items.

New seats feature wider cushioning, new massage functions and enhanced coverage of the heated and cooling areas. An embossed Jaguar Leaper is adopted on all standard headrests, while a set of ‘Est.1935 Jaguar Coventry’ upholstery tags highlight the brand’s heritage.

To enhance the ambience of the interior, Jaguar is offering an optional Cabin Air Ionisation with Nanoe technology that helps remove allergens and unpleasant odours.

Tech updates

The updated XF introduces segment-first Active Road Noise Cancellation technology that constantly monitors vibrations from the road surface and calculates the opposite phase sound wave needed to remove the noise heard by the occupants. Jaguar’s ClearSight Interior Rear View Mirror makes an appearance along with the Active Key. This “key” can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle without the need for the conventional key fob to be present in the vehicle. The rechargeable device incorporates a watch and has a battery life of up to seven days between charges.

Other technological advances include Clear Exit Monitor for obstacle alert when opening doors and Adaptive Cruise Control.

Engines

A next-generation, 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium turbocharged diesel engine and the latest 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium petrol engine power the new Jaguar XF. The RWD D200 makes 147kW/430Nm from its 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that is paired with an eight-speed automatic. The new 147kW diesel, which adds 15kW to the outgoing 132kW version, powers the XF from 0-100km/h in 7.6 seconds.

Petrol customers can choose between 183kW (P250) or 221kW (P300) versions of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder producing 365Nm and 400Nm respectively. The 183kW petrol engine delivers 0-100km/h in 6.9 seconds, while the 221kW XF, available exclusively with all-wheel drive, achieves 0-100km/h in 6.1 seconds. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission in both instances.

Local availability

The new Jaguar XF is scheduled for South African introduction early in 2021 with pricing to be announced closer to the time.