Design There are two versions of the XF to choose from – the saloon and the Sportbrake. While the former is self-explanatory, the latter can be described as a cross between an estate car and a four-door coupé. Both are based on lightweight aluminium body architecture that delivers strength, efficiency and refinement. Their low coefficient of drag yields excellent fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise, with apertures in the front bumper that optimise airflow through the wheel arches. If you regularly carry lots of sports kit or luggage, the XF Sportbrake offers 565 litres of space with the rear seats in place. Fold the rear seats down for 1,675 litres of luggage capacity that is two metres in length and over a metre in width at its narrowest point, along with plus discreet underfloor stowage.
Performance Both the saloon and the Sportbrake are offered with a choice of four diesel and two petrol engines. Taking the diesels first, the 2.0-litre Ingenium diesel is available with power outputs of 163PS, 180PS and 240PS, while there’s also a 300PS 3.0-litre V6. WLTP combined fuel economy for the 180PS diesel engine with manual transmission is up to 50.9mpg. The 163PS models are rear-wheel drive, the more powerful 240PS and 300PS engines are all-wheel drive only and the mid-range 180PS gives you a choice between the two.
Technology XF comes in five trim levels, ascending from Prestige to Portfolio and upwards via R-Sport and Chequered Flag to the XF S. All feature the Touch Pro infotainment system which is based around a console-mounted 10” touchscreen. Navigation Pro is another standard feature, as are the InControl apps. Bluetooth phone connectivity, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay also feature across the range. The S model comes with a 380W Meridian sound system (optional for the other models). Other options are the innovative 10” dual-view touchscreen that allows the passenger to watch a DVD while the driver sees a completely different view – navigation, for instance – on the same screen.
Safety All trim levels are fully equipped as standard when it comes to safety. Features include autonomous emergency braking, land departure warning and traffic sign recognition with adaptive speed limiter. Occupants are protected by driver and front passenger airbags with seat occupant detector for passenger, front seat side and full-length window curtain. Options include lane keep assist and driver condition monitor, blind spot monitor and reverse traffic detection.