If you’re looking for information on a newer Jaguar XF, we’ve published an updated review: 2019 Jaguar XF Review
The storied Jaguar brand is rapidly becoming more alluring with several new models like the smaller XE sedan and the new F Pace SUV recently reaching the market. But Jaguar isn’t only about totally new products: The 2016 Jaguar XF receives a full redesign this year, but picks up right where its predecessor left off.
And where is that, exactly? That would be the heart of the competitive midsize luxury sedan segment, now populated by the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-Class, Cadillac CT6, Audi A6 and an ever-increasing roster of others. As part of its redesign, the XF touts new technology, new features and a new interior to keep it competitive against those rivals.
What it doesn’t offer is new exterior styling — or, at least, not by much. While the XF has been fully redesigned for the latest model year, it might not look like it to most shoppers, as styling is more of an evolution than a revolution. Still, we don’t think you should count out the Jag because its look isn’t drastically different. After all, it’s still beautiful and now it comes with more technology than ever before.
What’s New for 2016?
The XF is fully redesigned for 2016, offering a revised exterior look, a new interior, lots of new equipment and updated powertrains. See the 2016 Jaguar XF models for sale near you
What We Like
Handsome styling; excellent interior; comfortable seats; sharp handling; great new technology
What We Don’t
Styling isn’t drastically different from outgoing model; only one engine offered
How Much?
$51,500-$66,700
Fuel Economy
For 2016, the XF offers only one engine: a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 that touts 340 horsepower in most models and 380 hp in the sporty S version. All XF models offer 332 lb-ft of torque and an 8-speed automatic transmission, though drivers can choose between rear- or all-wheel drive.
As for gas mileage, the Environmental Protection Agency rates the engine at 20 miles per gallon in the city and 30 mpg on the highway with rear-wheel drive, regardless of power output. All-wheel drive drops those numbers to 20 mpg city/28 mpg hwy.
Standard Features & Options
The XF is offered with four trim levels: Premium, Prestige, R-Sport and S.
The base-level XF Premium ($51,500) comes standard with xenon headlights, an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, an 11-speaker Meridian sound system, dual-zone automatic climate control, dual power front seats, leatherette upholstery, a power sunroof, 18-in alloy wheels, a backup camera, a USB port for music, automatic wipers and headlights, and driver seat and mirror memory settings.
Step up to the midlevel Prestige ($57,500) and you get front and rear parking sensors, keyless access with a push-button starter, heated front seats, full leather upholstery and a navigation system with voice control and app integration.
Next up is the R-Sport ($61,600), which adds adaptive LED headlights, 19-in alloy wheels, sport seats and styling upgrades, satellite radio and a series of high-tech safety features including automatic high beams, lane-keep assist, a blind spot monitoring system, forward-collision warning with automatic braking and rear cross-traffic alert.
Topping the range is the XF S ($63,700), which adds 40 hp, larger wheels, even more sporty interior and exterior styling cues, adaptive suspension and passenger seat memory settings.
The XF also offers a wide range of options. Some standard features in higher trim levels are available in lower trims, while other options include a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, cooled front seats, a larger touchscreen, a heads-up display, a mobile Wi-Fi system, a 17-speaker sound system, 4-zone automatic climate control, a power rear sunshade and a driver-assistance package that features a self-parking system, a 360-degree camera and adaptive cruise control.
Safety
Because of its recent redesign, the 2016 XF has not yet been crash-tested by the federal government’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administrationor the nonprofit Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
As for safety features, it offers everything you might expect. Standard items include side-curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control and a backup camera, while the sedan’s options list touts just about everything you’d expect from a luxury car, including rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high beams, LED headlights, an automated parallel-parking system, lane-keep assist and a 360-degree camera system. While Jaguar may not be known for its cutting-edge technology, the XF is certainly at the forefront of the luxury car world when it comes to safety equipment.
Behind the Wheel
As good as the XF looks from the outside, slipping into the driver’s seat evokes another level of feeling — luxury. Supremely comfortable seats with visible stitching on the leather edges offer support and power adjustment. As befits a performance car, the seating position is low and precisely aligned with the controls. Thanks to a longer wheelbase, rear-seat passengers benefit from ample legroom and the coupelike profile doesn’t impinge on headroom, even for tall adults.
The XF takes full form when the new engine roars to life and the car rockets down the road. Jaguar claims most models boast romps of 0-60 miles per hour in 5.2 seconds, with the S only slightly quicker. The feeling of a big sedan rushing to speed is exhilarating.
XF’s suspension was reworked for 2016, too, with a double-wishbone front and integral link rear setup incorporating a sophisticated passive damping system that adjusts on the fly. Combined with very well-tuned electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering, the XF carves the road like a much smaller, lighter car. Some time on the racetrack revealed a very agile, controlled and fast car that loves to run.
Other Cars to Consider
2017 Audi A6 — The A6 or, for that matter, the A7 both offer available all-wheel drive, a cushy ride and a handsome design — inside and out.
2016 BMW 5 Series — The 5 Series is also a high-tech marvel and it boasts a more inspired driving experience than the Jaguar. Its design is starting to look a little tired, though.
2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class — A new E-Class is right around the corner, which gives you two options: Get a great deal on the current one or wait for a handsome new one. Either way, the E-Class is one of the top models in this crowded segment.
Used Jaguar XJ — Although Jaguar’s fullsize XJ sedan might be financially out of reach of some drivers, a used (or certified pre-owned) model certainly isn’t. Take one look at the XJ’s amazing styling and it’s hard not to want one.
Autotrader’s Advice
The 2016 Jaguar XF is an impressive car and the most impressive version is the mid-level Prestige model. Add a few safety options and you can have a well-equipped, high-tech Jaguar for under $65,000 — not bad for a totally new model. Find a Jaguar XF for sale
