Looking for a premium executive car that won’t break the bank? The recently discontinued Jaguar XF might be exactly what you’re after. With prices starting from just £4,000, this British luxury saloon offers serious value for money in today’s used car market.
Why the XF Deserves Your Attention
The second-generation XF represented a major leap forward for Jaguar when it launched in 2015. Built on an all-new aluminum-rich platform, it shed the outdated underpinnings of its predecessor and emerged as a genuine competitor to the German luxury establishment.
What makes this car special isn’t just its good looks – though it certainly has those. The XF delivers something increasingly rare in today’s market: a rear-wheel-drive executive car that’s genuinely engaging to drive while remaining comfortable for daily use.
Driving Experience That Actually Matters
Behind the wheel, the XF feels substantial and well-engineered. The steering has proper weight to it, giving you confidence whether you’re navigating city traffic or tackling winding country roads. Unlike some modern cars that feel disconnected, the XF maintains that essential link between driver and road.
The chassis strikes an impressive balance. You get the comfort you’d expect from a premium saloon – it smooths out road imperfections without fuss – but there’s enough sportiness lurking beneath to keep things interesting when you want to push on.
Practical Considerations for Real Life
Space and Comfort
The longer wheelbase of this generation XF translates to noticeably more room for rear passengers. Adults can sit comfortably in the back without feeling cramped, making it a viable option for families or those who regularly carry passengers.
The interior quality, while not quite matching Audi’s standards, feels appropriately upmarket. Nice touches like ambient lighting help create a premium atmosphere, and the materials generally feel solid and well-chosen.
Boot Space Champions
Here’s where the XF really shines practically. The saloon offers 540 liters of boot space, which actually beats both the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6 from the same era. If you need even more cargo capacity, the Sportbrake estate version provides 565 liters – perfect for those who value both style and practicality.
What to Look for When Buying
Budget Expectations
While £4,000 examples exist, they’re likely to be high-mileage cars that may have been used hard. For a more realistic ownership experience, budget around £9,000. This should get you a well-maintained example with reasonable mileage and fewer potential headaches.
Key Areas to Check
- Service history: Look for cars with full dealer or specialist service records
- Interior wear: Check leather seats and trim pieces for excessive wear
- Electronics: Test all systems, including infotainment and climate control
- Suspension: Listen for any unusual noises on test drives
Engine and Variant Guide
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Boot Capacity (Saloon) | 540 liters |
| Boot Capacity (Sportbrake) | 565 liters |
| Wheelbase | Extended vs previous generation |
| Construction | Aluminum-rich platform |
| Drive Type | Rear-wheel drive |
| Body Styles | 4-door saloon, 5-door estate |
The Value Proposition
With Jaguar discontinuing the XF as part of their electric vehicle pivot, these cars represent exceptional value in the used market. You’re getting a premium European executive car with genuine driver appeal at prices that would have been unthinkable just a few years ago.
The combination of distinctive styling, engaging driving dynamics, and practical space makes the XF a compelling alternative to the usual German suspects. Plus, you’ll stand out from the sea of 3 Series and A4s on the road.
Should You Buy One?
The XF makes most sense for buyers who want something different without sacrificing quality or driving enjoyment. It’s ideal if you appreciate good design, enjoy driving, and want a car that feels special without the premium badge price tag.
Consider it if you’re currently looking at mainstream executive cars but want more character, or if you’re stepping down from a newer premium car but don’t want to compromise on the driving experience.
The key is finding the right example at the right price. Take your time, inspect carefully, and don’t be afraid to walk away from anything that doesn’t feel right. At current market prices, there are plenty of good XFs available – you just need to find yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Jaguar XF parts expensive to maintain?
A: Parts costs are reasonable for a premium car, though slightly higher than mainstream brands. Independent specialists can help reduce servicing costs.
Q: What’s the most reliable XF engine?
A: The diesel engines are generally well-regarded for reliability, while petrol variants offer smoother operation but higher fuel consumption.
Q: Should I buy a high-mileage XF?
A: High-mileage examples can be good value if properly maintained, but prioritize service history over low mileage alone.
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