Post embargo leakage, Jaguar has gone ahead and officially released an “In detail” press kit which should answer (in the following pages) all technical questions about the all new model. Jaguar has also released UK pricing of the XF range consisting of four engines and three trim packages which is now available for order.
In the U.S. only two V8 engines both 4.2 liter V8's naturally aspirated and supercharged producing 300bhp and 420bhp, respectively, will be available with three trim packages. With U.S. pricing to be announced in November, deliveries will start March 2008.
The only offered transmission is a six-speed automatic with shifting paddles on the steering wheel for manual gear selection.
On the outside the XF reflects a new contemporary yet sporting design language which Jaguar declares will be applied to all future models. On the inside the XF features electronic goodies such as the all-new JaguarDrive Selector, which “rises into the palm of the hand, while rotating vents turn from their flush, 'parked' position to their functional open position, JaguarSense - an electronic control system that employs motion detecting sensors to activate certain vehicle features, unique phosphor blue interior lighting, and Bowers & Wilkins sound technology.”
Not to be out-done by the competition, the XF gets driver aids such as Electronic Brake Assist, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Anti-lock brakes, Dynamic Stability Control, Cornering Brake Control and Engine Drag Torque Control. Lastly, Understeer Control Logic, which appearing for the first time in a Jaguar, senses understeer and decelerates the vehicle until grip is restored to the front wheels.
INTRO
Challenging convention and setting its own rules, the new Jaguar XF fuses the style and performance of a sports car with the refinement, space and sophistication of a luxury saloon. This is the beginning of a new era for Jaguar.
The new XF: a dramatic expression of a bold new Jaguar design language, with a driving experience that exceeds expectations created by the striking appearance: relaxed and confident, with outstanding ability and control.
Resolutely true to the Jaguar philosophy of creating Beautiful, Fast cars, the XF goes further, adding a new dimension to the marque. The four-door XF has the visual excitement of a coupe, but room inside for five adults to enjoy an interior wholly contemporary in style yet uniquely Jaguar.
As well as space, the new XF’s interior ambience is enriched by crafted, luxurious materials, sophisticated instruments and calm interior mood lighting. Engineering excellence and attention to detail mean the XF’s interior matches the best-in-class for refinement, while Jaguar’s intelligent use of technology and driver-friendly Touch-screen controls add new layers of comfort and ease of use.
Every XF model has shift-by-wire transmission control, with Jaguar’s class-leading sequential shift system – its popularity already confirmed by feedback from XK sports car customers – used for the first time in a saloon. Shift-by-wire replaces manual shift linkages with electronic commands and gives every XF rapid and very smooth gearshifts – faster, even, than the acclaimed XK’s transmission.
The Jaguar Sequential ShiftTM System gives the driver the option of one-touch manual gearchange control via steering-wheel mounted paddles. There are also multiple JaguarDrive ControlTM transmission modes, including Dynamic and Winter settings, which interact with throttle progression, Dynamic Stability Control thresholds and shift strategy to match mood and conditions.
But the most exciting feature of the XF’s transmission control is the all-new JaguarDrive SelectorTM – an industry-first rotary shift interface that combines precise, intuitive control with space-saving packaging, to allow maximisation of interior storage options.
Other innovative functional features add more ‘surprise and delight’. Air-conditioning vents present a flush dashboard surface until the ignition is switched on, at which point they elegantly rotate to the open position. Another new technology - JaguarSenseTM - introduces touch or proximity-sensing control for overhead console lights and the glovebox release.
Every level of audio system features at least eight speakers, with a premium system designed in association with highly respected audio specialist Bowers & Wilkins available on range-topping models. Radio options now include a Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) system and Sirius Satellite Radio for the North American market, while the XF technology count includes Bluetooth® communications technology, plus optional iPod® and MP3 player connectivity with full-function control through the Touch-screen – and an auxiliary port on every car for other portable audio devices.
Other available features include JaguarVoiceTM control to operate audio and telephone functions, Blind Spot Monitor, Front and Rear Parking Aids and Rear Camera Parking Aid, Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Speed Limiter, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System and Electronic Parking Brake.
Mick Mohan, XF Chief Programme Engineer comments:
“The interior of the XF is a combination of style and substance. It bristles with innovative, industry-leading features. From the smart technical solution of the JaguarDrive SelectorTM, through the seamless efficiency of rotating vents, to the simplicity of Touch-screen control, the XF proves aesthetics and function can work together in perfect harmony.”
Engineering excellence and class-leading structural rigidity are at the heart of the new XF's construction. The advanced body structure, which comprises high-tech materials and new-generation design techniques, maximises strength and minimises weight to give the XF superb performance, refinement and efficiency across its range of V6 and V8 engines. These engines include the quietest diesel engine in its classand a supercharged V8 that delivers outstanding levels of performance.
The new XF is best in class for torsional stiffness, and with a wide rear track displays excellent handling characteristics. These elements underpin a dynamic ethos that is driver-focussed yet supremely comfortable and refined. Just as its looks promise, the new XF excels across the board, in every role from a sports car to a luxurious long-distance cruiser.
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