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Jaguar XF 2.2 diesel: Test Drive Review
Date: 25 July 2011 | Author: Hugh Hunston
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Four years after the original XF appeared, Jaguar's executive saloon now includes a much-needed 2.2-litre diesel engine to partner the existing 3.0D and extend the brand's strength and depth within the business sector.
The company hopes the 190hp engine, mated to an eight-speed auto gearbox, will, by virtue of a 149g/km CO2 rating and 52.3mpg capability, place the comprehensively restyled car on increasing numbers of fleet lists and pose a challenge to the four-cylinder BMW 5-series and Audi A6.
Dubbed the most efficient Jaguar ever, the 2.2D should prompt a 60% fleet element compared with a previous XF corporate share of just 23%.
Initial start-up impressions were encouraging with a lack of clatter noise outside and a muted thrum at standstill inside. Acceleration is brisk rather than searing, reaching 62mph in eight seconds, while the eight-speed automatic transmission allows block changes up and down the ratios. And with 65kg less weight over the front wheels than the 3.0-litre V6 version, the newcomer is more agile and precise.
Meanwhile, the innovative 'easy off' stop/start system, exclusive to the 2.2D, seamlessly restarts the engine as you ease off the brakes. Also, when the car is pulled up and parked with the seat belt released, it automatically selects 'P', shuts down the engine and engages the parking brake.
While the 2.2D engine is the most significant feature, the car's aesthetics have been enhanced with a revised front end while the cabin benefits from a fairly subtle ergonomic upgrade, including larger, clearer switchgear.
Our car also featured smart tan upholstery with 'knurled aluminium' fascia and central console finish, plus dark brown moleskin velour-style roof lining. However, in bright sunlight the air vent ducts' metallic finish surround reflected badly onto the side window view of the driver's door mirror.
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