Home > News & Blogs > 2016 Jaguar XF Review: British Luxury Meets Lightweight Performance
2016 Jaguar XF Review: British Luxury Meets Lightweight Performance
2016 Jaguar XF: Lightweight Luxury Redefined
The Verdict: The 2016 Jaguar XF delivers a compelling blend of athletic handling, refined luxury and surprising value in the competitive midsize luxury sedan segment. While its evolutionary styling may not turn heads, its lightweight aluminum construction and well-executed interior make it a serious contender against German rivals.
The Verdict: The 2016 Jaguar XF delivers a compelling blend of athletic handling, refined luxury and surprising value in the competitive midsize luxury sedan segment. While its evolutionary styling may not turn heads, its lightweight aluminum construction and well-executed interior make it a serious contender against German rivals.
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What's New for 2016
The second-generation XF represents a significant step forward for Jaguar's midsize sedan:
- Lightweight construction: Aluminum-intensive architecture reduces weight by up to 265 lbs
- Extended wheelbase: 2 inches longer for improved rear seat space
- New powertrains: Supercharged V6 standard, turbo-diesel coming later
- Advanced tech: Available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Improved efficiency: Up to 3 mpg better than previous V6 models
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The XF offers two versions of Jaguar's supercharged 3.0L V6:
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| Model | Power | Torque | 0-60 mph | MPG (city/hwy) | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XF 35t | 340 hp | 332 lb-ft | 5.2 sec | 20/30 | RWD/AWD |
| XF S | 380 hp | 332 lb-ft | 5.1 sec | 20/30 | RWD/AWD |
Driving Strengths
- Excellent steering feedback and response
- Lightweight chassis (300+ lbs lighter than German rivals)
- Well-tuned 8-speed automatic transmission
- Configurable Dynamic mode settings
- Composed ride with optional adaptive suspension
Driving Limitations
- Minimal difference between 340hp and 380hp versions
- Overly subdued exhaust note
- All-season tires limit grip (summer tires recommended)
- AWD system untested in extreme conditions
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Driving Modes
The XF offers four selectable driving modes with customizable parameters:
- Dynamic Mode: Sportier throttle, transmission, steering and suspension
- Normal Mode: Balanced everyday driving settings
- Eco Mode: Maximizes fuel efficiency
- Winter Mode: Optimized for low-traction conditions
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Weight Advantage: The XF's aluminum construction makes it significantly lighter than competitors - 320 lbs less than a BMW 535i and 408 lbs less than an Audi A6 3.0T. This pays dividends in agility, efficiency and performance.
Interior and Comfort
The XF's cabin blends British luxury with modern technology:
Luxury Highlights
- High-quality materials throughout
- Generous front legroom (44.4 inches)
- Comfortable, supportive seats
- Available configurable mood lighting
- Excellent build quality
Comfort Shortcomings
- Rear seat cushion sits low, elevating knees
- Large center tunnel reduces rear middle seat usability
- Optional heated windshield creates visual distortion
- Limited interior storage space
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Trim Levels and Features
Premium
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Leatherette upholstery
- 8-inch touchscreen
- Xenon headlights
Prestige
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- Leather upholstery
- Navigation system
- LED headlights
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R-Sport
- Sport body styling
- Sport seats
- Configurable dynamics
- Optional adaptive suspension
XF S
- 380 hp supercharged V6
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Premium leather
- Unique interior trim
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Technology and Safety
The XF offers modern tech features with some Jaguar-specific quirks:
Technology Features
- InControl Touch: Standard 8-inch touchscreen system
- InControl Touch Pro: Optional 10.2-inch system (available Feb 2016)
- Digital Instrument Cluster: Optional 12.3-inch configurable display
- Audio Systems: Base Meridian system with premium upgrade available
- Connectivity: InControl Apps for smartphone integration
- Safety Considerations
- Standard Features: Multiple airbags, stability control
- Available Options: Forward collision warning with automatic braking
- Lane Keep Assist: Adjustable sensitivity settings
- Blind Spot Monitoring: Accurate detection system
- Crash Ratings: Not yet tested by NHTSA or IIHS
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Tech Note: While Jaguar has announced plans to support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, these features were not available at launch. The optional heated windshield can distort visibility and interfere with toll transponders.
Cargo and Practicality
The XF surprises with excellent trunk space but limited interior storage:
Trunk Capacity: 19.1 cubic feet (larger than German rivals)
- Rear Seats: 40/20/40 split-folding
- Interior Storage: Modest glovebox and door pockets
- Cabin Technology: Small center console storage area
Competitive Comparison
How the XF stacks up against key luxury sedan rivals:
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| Model | Base Price | Power | MPG | Weight | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jaguar XF 35t | $51,900 | 340 hp | 20/30 | 3,770 lbs | Lightest, best steering |
| BMW 535i | $56,000 | 300 hp | 20/30 | 4,090 lbs | Brand cachet |
| Audi A6 3.0T | $55,800 | 310 hp | 20/29 | 4,178 lbs | Quattro AWD standard |
| Cadillac CTS 3.6 | $47,495 | 335 hp | 19/29 | 3,800 lbs | Value proposition |
Pricing and Value
The XF presents an attractive value proposition in the luxury sedan segment:
- Base Price: $51,900 (35t Premium RWD)
- XF S: Starts at $62,700
- AWD Option: $3,000 across all trims
- Key Options: Adaptive suspension ($1,100), Digital cluster ($1,250)
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Value Proposition: The XF undercuts German rivals by $4,000-$5,000 while offering comparable or better performance. Its lightweight construction and superior steering give it an edge for driving enthusiasts, though tech-savvy buyers may prefer German infotainment systems.
Final Recommendation
The 2016 Jaguar XF is ideal for:
Driving enthusiasts who prioritize steering feel and handling
- Value-conscious luxury buyers seeking an alternative to German brands
- Style seekers who appreciate understated British elegance
Consider alternatives if you prioritize:
- Technology: Audi A6 Virtual Cockpit
- Brand prestige: BMW 5 Series
- Rear seat comfort: Mercedes E-Class
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Klash
Last Updated On Oct, 06-2025