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Premium midsize car; Built in England
  • 4-door sedan
  • longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive
Good condition price range: $13,100 – $70,800*


2009 Jaguar XF Front


2009 Jaguar XF Rear


2009 Jaguar XF Interior


2009 Jaguar XF Profile

Pros:
  • Acceleration
  • Quietness
  • Ride/handling
Cons:
  • Fuel economy
  • Rear-seat entry/exit
  • Rear-seat room

Jaguar’s XF traded the retro styling of its S-Type predecessor for something edgier. The XF offers a fine balance of ride and handling along with impressive powertrain performance. The XFR delivers even more performance at a price (when new) considerably lower than a BMW M5 or Mercedes-Benz E63. For those who want distinctive style and fresh, “gee-whiz” technological features, this Best Buy (2010-12) and Recommended (2009) premium sedan should be near the top of your shopping list.

Overview

For 2009, Jaguar’s XF replaced the S-Type as this British automaker’s premium midsize rear-wheel-drive sedan. Three trim levels were offered: Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Supercharged. All models held a 4.2-liter V8 engine. Engines in the Luxury and Premium Luxury editions made 300 horsepower, while Supercharged versions delivered 420 horsepower. Each used a six-speed automatic transmission with “JaguarDrive Selector,” which used a rotary knob for gear selection. The transmission also included steering-wheel paddles for manual gear changes. Standard safety features included antilock brakes, traction control, an antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. A navigation system with voice control was standard in Premium Luxury and Supercharged models, and optional for the Luxury sedan. The system also allowed passengers to record voice messages for playback at a later time. Rear-obstacle detection was standard, and front-obstacle detection was available. Also available were a rearview camera, Bowers and Wilkins audio systems, a blind-spot monitoring system, adaptive cruise control, and JaguarSense-a system that used touch/proximity sensors to detect when an occupant wanted to open the glovebox or activate the overhead interior lights. Rivals included the Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G37, Lexus ES 350, Infiniti M, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

Yearly Updates

2010 XF
New, more powerful engines joined the XF lineup for 2010, along with a brand-new performance model. Base, Premium, and Supercharged trim levels were offered-along with a new XFR sedan. The Base model reprised the previous year’s 300-horsepower, 4.2-liter V8. A 5.0-liter V8 that produced 385 horsepower went into the Premium sedan. The Supercharged version moved up to a 470-horsepower V8, while the XFR got a supercharged engine that generated 510 horsepower. As in 2009, all engines mated with a six-speed automatic transmission. Supercharged and XFR models had specific tires, brakes, and trim. They also had Jaguar’s new Adaptive Dynamics Suspension, which automatically adjusted firmness based on road conditions to balance ride and handling. JaguarSense was standard.
2011 XF
The 2011 Jaguar XF lineup saw a few changes, including the Premium’s 5.0-liter V8 becoming the standard engine, replacing a 4.2-liter V8.
2012 XF
The 2012 Jaguar XF received freshened styling, and the former Premium trim level was replaced by the Portfolio with much the same equipment.
2013 XF
Jaguar previously sold the XF with a choice of a couple V8 engines but no choice in drive wheels; they were all rear-wheel drive. For 2013, XF offerings expanded to include first-time 4-cylinder, V6, and all-wheel drive models. Other key changes included a new automatic transmission and a revised slate of option packages. Styling was virtually unchanged after last year’s freshening.
2014 XF
The 2014 Jaguar XF got a line-topping, 550-horsepower XFR-S model and an available Vision Pack that included a blind-spot alert system, adaptive headlights with automatic high beams, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

Engines

longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive

Luxury 2009 models and Base sedans used a 4.2-liter V8 engine that produced 300 horsepower, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. A supercharged 4.2-liter V8, rated at 420 horsepower, went into the 2009 Supercharged sedan. For 2010, a new Premium model carried 385-horsepower 5.0-liter V8, while the Supercharged edition moved up to a 470-hp, 5.0-liter V8. Jaguar’s top-performing XFR, introduced for 2010, holds a 510-horsepower supercharged V8 engine. For 2011, the Premium’s 5.0-liter V8 replaced the 4.2-liter as the standard engine. For 2013, Jaguar added a 240-horsepower turbocharged 4 cylinder and a 340-horsepower supercharged V6. Also, all-wheel drive was newly available as an alternative to rear-wheel drive. All XF sedans used a six-speed automatic transmission.

Turbocharged dohc I4
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 2.0/122
Engine HP 240
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 251
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed automatic

 19/30
dohc V8
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 4.2/256
Engine HP 300
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 310
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed automatic

 16/25

 18.2
Supercharged dohc V6
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 3.0/183
Engine HP 340
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 332
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed automatic

 18/28
dohc V8
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 5.0/305
Engine HP 385
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 380
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed automatic

 16/23
Supercharged dohc V8
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 4.2/256
Engine HP 420
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 413
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed automatic

 15/23

 17.9
Supercharged dohc V8
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 5.0/305
Engine HP 470
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 424
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed automatic

 15/21

Road Test

Acceleration is a high point. Even the non-supercharged 4.2-liter V8 is satisfyingly quick at any speed, the Supercharged is faster still, and the XFR swifter yet. The 5.0-liter V8 delivers immediate and substantial power. Jaguar claimed a 6.2-second time for 0-60 mph acceleration with a non-supercharged model, 5.1 for the Supercharged, and 4.7 for the XFR edition. All estimates seem credible. The transmission provides smooth, fast shifts with any engine.

Fuel economy varies significantly by engine. A test XF base model averaged 18.2 mpg, while a Supercharged sedan averaged 17.9 mpg. An XF Premium managed just 13.6 mpg-a disappointing figure even for a test that was almost exclusively city driving. An XFR sedan averaged a more appealing 21.4 mpg with more highway driving than city use. All engines require premium-grade gasoline.

Ride quality also varies. Base and Premium sedans are generally comfortable, though rippled roads induce nervous wheel patter-more so in the Premium. They also tend to thump over sharp bumps. The Supercharged model has 20-inch wheels, which are fidgety over bumps, with pronounced side-to-side motions. Automatic suspension control in the XFR does a better job of smoothing sharp bumps, though the ride is still rather firm.

Handling is a plus. All models corner with good grip and little body lean. The Supercharged sedan is slightly sharper in fast cornering, but stiff tire sidewalls tend to follow every groove and crown in the road. An XFR offers even greater grip and stability. Steering is well weighted and precise. Brakes are strong, but on one test car were touchy.

Wind rush and mechanical noise are well muted. The 4.2- and 5.0-liter V8s emit a pleasant growl under acceleration and cruise quietly. The XFR is notable for lacking the whine that’s ordinarily associated with supercharged engines. Some tire thrum makes its way into the cabin on coarse surfaces, but it’s never loud enough to annoy.

Gauges are unobstructed. Jaguar deserves credit for eschewing a control-knob interface (as in Audis and BMWs) in favor of a touch screen for most audio and climate functions. Yet, this doesn’t necessarily work to XF’s benefit. Many simple tasks require performing quite a few “virtual button” presses, and “drilling down” through several menu screens to access some audio functions. Redundant controls on the steering wheel help a bit. Quality wood, leather, and aluminum, with an abundance of padded surfaces, contribute to an upscale ambiance. XFR models equipped with the optional Portfolio Package add a suede-like headliner. JaguarSense is an interesting novelty, as is the rotary-knob transmission gear selector.

Though not ample, front-seat space is adequate for most adults. Seats are comfortable with good support. A standard power tilt/telescopic steering wheel helps drivers find a comfortable position. An XF’s low, swooping roofline means tall passengers will have to watch their heads when entering or exiting.

Back-seat headroom is barely adequate, as is legroom if the front seats are pushed far back-especially in the middle seat. Entry and exit require some twisting for taller passengers.

Cargo space excels. At 17.7 cubic feet, the sedan’s trunk is the largest in its class. Seatbacks fold flat, but headrests will have to be removed if the front seats are moved too far back. Interior small-item storage is good.

Ratings

Model Tested: 2010 Jaguar XF Premium

Ratings values are on a 1-10 scale, with 10 being the best. With the exception of Value, these numbers reflect how the vehicle compares against the universe of vehicles, not just against rivals in its class.

Performance

Acceleration - 8
80%
Fuel Economy - 4
40%
Ride Quality - 7
70%
Steering/Handling - 7
70%
Quietness - 8
80%

Accommodations

Controls/Materials - 6
60%
Room/Comfort Front - 7
70%
Room/Comfort Rear - 4
40%
Cargo Room - 4
40%

Other

Value - 10
100%

Total: 65

Specifications

4-door sedan
Wheelbase (in.) Length (in.) Width (in.) Height (in.) Weight (lbs)
114.5 195.3 80.8 57.5
Cargo Volume (cu/ft) Payload Capacity (cu/ft) Fuel Capacity (gal.) Seating Capacity
17.7 18.4 5
Headroom Legroom
Front Rear Front Rear
39.0 37.4 41.5 36.6
Safety Ratings

Model Tested: N/A Not tested. 4-door sedan

NHTSA

(5 is the highest rating)

Front Impact Test

Driver Injury - N/A
N/A0%
Front Passenger Injury - N/A
N/A0%

Side Impact Test

Driver Injury - N/A
N/A0%
Rear Passenger Injury - N/A
N/A0%

HLDI

(A score of 100 is average. Lower is better)

Collision N/A
Injury N/A
Theft N/A

Trouble Spots

Rough idle
Description: Rough idle on supercharged engine when cold could be due to mismatched air filters, which should always be replaced as matched sets. (2009)
Rough idle
Description: Fuel injector problem can cause rough idle, hard starting, and poor fuel economy. (20013)
Steering problems
Description: Steering gear pinion may not properly tightened and result in knocking noise from from the steering gear and early steering degradation.
Sunroof/moonroof
Description: The sunroof may make creaking noises for which a revised seal is available. (2009)
Transmission leak
Description: The transmission could detach from its pan. (2014)
Vehicle noise
Description: Rattling sound in door(s) when closing or driving is caused by window regulator cable foam wearing out allowing the cable to rub on the speaker. (2009-10)
Windows
Description: The windows’ one-touch feature may quit working or the window may go up then back down, requiring replacement of the window regulator. (2009-10)
Electrical problem
Description: The touchscreen display locks up and may go blank or show the Jaguar logo, requiring module reprogramming. (2009-10)
Electrical problem
Description: The overhead console lights may malfunction due to corrosion in the connectors. (2009-10)
Transmission problems
Description: The transmission control switch may fail to move out of Park or change gears. (2009-13)

Recall History

2009 XF
Description: Rear safety belt D-ring assembly may not rotate properly around anchorage mounting bolt; if assembly is not held together when tightening, D-ring and/or washer could separate, forming a burr and subsequently limiting proper rotation, so seat occupant is not properly restrained in a crash.
2009 XF
Description: Speaker wires may fracture, causing speaker to cease to operate; could impair audible notification of turn indicator, seatbelt warning, “lights on” warning, “driver’s door open” with key in ignition, “driver intervene” (for adaptive cruise control), and seat memory.
2010 XF
Description: On small number of vehicles, recommended tire pressure on placard label does not correspond with tires fitted to the vehicle.
2010 XF with 5.0L V8
Description: Fuel transfer pipe in fuel tank may be kinked, which may restrict fuel being transferred from one side of the tank to the fuel pump, causing fuel starvation at low fuel levels that could cause engine to stall without warning.
2010 XF
Description: After an extended period of time in service, corrosion of the power assist steering (PAS) pipes will occur that may lead to pin-holing of the pipe which could allow pressurized power steering fluid to leak into the under-hood and engine bay area. A loss of power steering fluid will result in a loss of power assist steering. Also, that fluid may ignite if it comes into contact with an ignition source or a surface at sufficiently high enough temperature, causing a vehicle fire. Dealers will replace the power steering fluid pipes with parts manufactured to the required corrosion protection specification.
2010 XF
Description: Certification label misstates the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).
2010 XF
Description: The fuel pump may not turn on following start up. The engine could stall.
2010-2012 XF with 5.0L gas engine
Description: Fuel-tank fuel-outlet flange may crack and leak fuel, increasing risk of a fire.
2013 XF
Description: Faulty fuel-pump control modules could shut down the fuel pump and cause the engine to stall.
2013
Description: Certification label misstates the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).
2013-14 XFR-S
Description: Power steering fluid flow may be restricted within the system and result in a reduction of power steering assistance.
2013-14 XF
Description: A rear brake line could rub against a bracket and wear. Brake fluid may leak resulting in longer braking distance.
2013-14 XF with 2.0-liter engine
Description: A hose clamp on the Charge Air Cooler may be loose. If the hose detached, the engine could stall.
2013-14 XF
Description: The rear-suspension toe links could separate from the rear sub-frame causing a loss of vehicle stability and control.

Equipment Lists

Equipment lists are only viewable on larger screen sizes.

Pricing

Used-car pricing varies widely depending on local market conditions. Therefore, we recommend visiting websites that list used cars for sale to get a better idea of what a specific model is selling for in your area.

More about Tom Appel
Written by: Tom Appel on April 21, 2016.
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