The Jaguar XF Sportbrake – on paper at least – stands a very good chance of being all the car you’ll ever need.
Like the XF sedan , the Sportbrake – which, when translated out of Jaguar-speak, simply means ‘estate car’ – has been treated to a mid-life refresh. That update introduced a heavily revised interior (developed in conjunction with the F-Pace SUV), a more sophisticated 11.4in touchscreen infotainment system, a mild-hybrid diesel engine and a rationalisation of the trim line-up.
The Sportbrake offers an enthusiastic chassis tailored for spirited driving rather than plush family travel. A firm ride and taut body control creates a planted feel, but the negative side of the tight suspension setup is that the Jag is not nearly as isolated from road irregularities as vehicles such as the Volvo V90 and the Mercedes E-Class Estate. The steering is crisp and responsive to your commands, and effort builds progressively as the cornering forces increase.
In R-Dynamic specification, the new Jaguar XF and XF Sportbrake feature a series of distinct design elements for a more performance-focused look, while all models are available with the additional Black Exterior Pack, which delivers an even more dynamic appearance with bespoke elements finished in Gloss Black.
Every XF Sportbrake has a host of safety equipment as standard, including automatic emergency braking, traffic sign recognition, a lane departure warning system, a driver attention monitoring system and six airbags. There’s also an optional Driver Assist Pack for entry-level R-Dynamic S models, which adds blindspot assistance, a clear exit monitor, adaptive cruise control, a rear collision monitor and a rear traffic monitor that warns you if you’re about to reverse into the path of oncoming traffic.
The Jaguar XF Sportbrake received a maximum five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP scoring solidly in all four test categories. A closer inspection of the results reveals that it isn't quite as good at protecting child or adult occupants as the E-Class Estate, although they’re almost identical to those of the 5 Series Touring.
The diesel with its mild-hybrid technology is a much better bet for the majority of buyers. It’s quiet for a four-cylinder diesel and feels decently quick thanks to its hybrid tech assisting at low revs, while those doing big motorway miles will like that it uses less fuel than the petrols.
The XF Sportbrake commands attention and provides satisfaction alongside the best station wagons.The XF Sportbrake is a very competitive luxury estate. If sharp handling is your top priority, it is, without doubt, one of the most enjoyable cars in its class to drive.
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