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| Jaguar XF V8 |
The Jaguar XF was the first model to drastically change the cat brand design. At the time it was
released, I admit I didn’t quit like it, but now I thing it is one of the most
beautiful and elegant sedans out there.
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| LEDs taillights as well as daytime running lights in front |
Without using the key, one can
climb in and press the start/stop button. That is when the show begins: the
round transmission knob rises to your palm and the air conditioning vents open
automatically. The finishing’s are impressive, as they should be, with leather
covering seats, doors and dashboard, plus real wood trim and lots of aluminum.
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| Aluminum trim + wood + leather |
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| Simple, practical and easy |
All commands are easy to reach
and, most importantly, easy to read. Basic air conditioning, sound system and
cruise control buttons are in hand. All the rest is managed through a color
7-inch touch screen. At night, the ambient light in a bluish tone brings extra
charm to the controls.
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| Details are very nice |
The tested model had a somewhat
dated V6 engine that only has 240hp, combined with a six-gear automatic
transmission. However, a 2.0-liter Turbo with the same horsepower displacement
and an eight-gear automatic will soon be available in 2013, with much more
torque and less gas consumption. The 5.0 V8 should stay in line together with
the outstanding supercharged R
version that has 510hp to play with.
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| The gear knob and air vents are closed when the engine is off |
The 3.0 V6 is still a good option
if you are not in a hurry. And you won’t need to worry about a turbine problem
in the future. It is smooth and driving it fits like a glove. The ride is
absolutely magnificent, with excellent handling and above average comfort,
specially helped by the suspension.
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| XF 3.0 V6 |
This Jaguar is still a huge
sports sedan, but parking is no trouble if you opt for the rearview camera and
all the parking assistance signals that can also be viewed at the screen –
available for front and rear.
Whoever rides in the back will
not love the experience, however, since there is nothing out of the ordinary or
even good enough legroom. They’ll also be disappointed because the driving
pleasure of the XF is just so exquisite.
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| 18" wheels help to keep the ride comfortable |
Once you decide the show should
end, just press start/stop again and watch the vents close and the transmission
handle disappear. The spectacle should be charming at least for a month or so!
