Jaguar XF 2.0D 2015 review ~ station of gear

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27 Nov, 2015 4:15pm James Disdale

Jaguar's second generation XF exec saloon has impressed in V6 diesel spec but is the popular four-cylinder as good?

We’ve already been impressed by the Jaguar XF with the flagship 3.0-litre V6, but the entry-level 2.0-litre model is going to be the big seller. Promising low emissions and strong performance, this car has cost-conscious business users firmly in its sights.

It uses the Ingenium four-cylinder diesel first seen in the smaller XE, and is available with the same choice of 161bhp or 178bhp power outputs. Here we try the more potent version in racy R-Sport guise.

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Prod the starter button and the 2.0-litre rumbles into life before settling down to a slightly clattery idle. It’s not intrusive, and no worse than four-cylinder rivals from BMW and Audi, although it can’t match the V6 engine for refinement.

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Twist the rotary gear selector into drive, squeeze the throttle and the Jag accelerates smoothly and briskly. Engine noise is quite subdued, while the muscular 430Nm torque output means the XF feels faster than its 2.0-litre capacity would suggest. It sounds a little strained when extended, but with so much mid-range muscle you rarely need to rev the engine hard to travel quickly.

This feeling of effortless acceleration is enhanced by the eight-speed automatic box (there’s also a six-speed manual that’ll save you £1,750). In auto mode it delivers slick shifts and responds promptly to the throttle. Squeeze the pedal a bit harder and it holds on to a gear for stronger acceleration; give it a little lift and the transmission changes up seamlessly. You can also take manual control using the steering wheel-mounted paddles.

Like other XFs, the 2.0d’s steering is quick and precise, boosting the feeling of agility as you turn into a bend. More powerful R-Sport models like our test car get slightly stiffer suspension that’s designed to reduce roll and improve body control. Yet despite a slightly firmer low-speed ride, the car feels almost exactly the same to drive as less sporty versions. That means you get strong grip and excellent composure – for such a big saloon, through a series of corners the XF feels remarkably nimble. It’s refined, too.

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Wind and road noise are well suppressed, while on the motorway the 2.0-litre diesel is barely audible. And once you’ve got past the suspension’s low-speed fidget, the Jag glides quietly over most bumps and potholes.

Elsewhere, the 2.0d is virtually identical to the more expensive V6 diesel. On R-Sport models, that means you get the same deeper bumpers, subtle side skirts, tailgate spoiler and 18-inch alloys – the 161bhp version comes with smaller 17-inch rims.

It’s a similar story inside, where the car has the same mix of soft leather for the seats and aluminium-effect trim inserts. Some of the materials feel a little cheap compared to those inside a BMW 5 Series, but the Jag is solidly built and has a classy look and feel. Also familiar is the cabin’s cosy and cosseting air, created by the small side windows and wide centre console. Yet there’s a surprising amount of space, with plenty of rear head and legroom.

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Where the 2.0-litre car differs from its six-cylinder brother is in its low running costs. Go for the 161bhp version with a manual box, and you’ll benefit from CO2 emissions of just 104g/km and a claimed 70.6mpg. The more powerful 178bhp model tested here emits 114g/km and returns 65.7mpg – virtually identical to a 520d’s figures, but slightly higher than an A6 2.0 TDI Ultra’s.

Yet factor in the Jag’s extensive kit list – sat-nav, keyless entry and heated seats are all standard – and for many company users the XF will be a more tempting proposition.

With its blend of style, space  and low running costs, the XF 2.0d  is an executive car that appeals  to the head and the heart. The  new four-cylinder diesel engine serves up decent refinement,  plus it’s a surprisingly strong  performer and impressively  efficient. R-Sport trim also gives  an extra dose of head-turning  kerb appeal, and in combination with the Ingenium diesel and  automatic gearbox, it’s the  pick of the XF line-up.

Model: Jaguar XF 2.0d
Price: £36,850
Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl diesel
Power/torque: 178bhp/430Nm

Transmission: Eight-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive
0-62mph/Top speed: 8.1s/142mph
Economy/CO2: 65.7mpg/114g/km
On sale : Now

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