COOL FOR CATS

Stylish and sophisticated? Then the stunning new Jaguar XF S could be the purr-fect motor for you

Jaguar have a distinguished history of producing cars that are luxurious, elegant and sporty.

Now models such as the XF 3.0 TDV6 S Automatic that I’ve had on test are continuing that tradition with aplomb.

The exterior looks instantly give the game away – the deep, gloss black, honeycomb grille and air intakes contrasting nicely with the slim, hawkish headlamps.

The prof i le of this mid- sized executive car combines flowing lines, sharp creases, stunning al loys housing red brake cal ipers and lovely gloss-black side sills.

And as it fires past you, you’ll notice the shark’s fin antenna on the roof, sleek rear spoiler and large chrome twin exhausts.

Inside, the largely leather-clad cockpit creates a comfortable environment in which to enjoy the drive.

The heated, electric, front sports seats are supportive, while my teenage daughter commented on the lovely shaping of the rear bench, which has plenty of room for two adults or three kids. The boot, meanwhile, is a decent 540 litres. This £ 50,100 car is a technological delight, too, with a head- up display enabling you to keep your eyes on the road and a 5in colour TFT- LCD instrument panel and message centre in front of the multifunction steering wheel. Then, in the centre console, there is an 8in infotainment touchscreen from which you can control many of the car’s functions as well as media devices, phone, sat nav and climate. As impressive is the Adaptive Dynamics electronic wizardry that analyses driving behaviour and car movements to ensure suspension is perfectly set up. You also have a choice of driving modes – dynamic, normal, eco and rain/ice/snow. The eight- speed automatic transmission also features a sport mode and you can use steering wheel paddles to change gear.

Other niceties include auto wipers and lights, dual-zone climate control, electric windows and mirrors, cruise control and a reversing camera.

Meanwhile, a plethora of airbags and electronic aids will help to keep you and your family safe. Under the bonnet lurks a superbly ref ined 3.0 V6 d iesel eng ine developing 300PS and 700Nm of torque to drive the rear wheels.

Capable of hit t ing 62mph in 6.2 seconds, it can average 51.4mpg while emitting 144g/km of CO2.

Acceleration was instant, the braking rapid and the steering responsive. Yet the handling and ride was also wonderfully smooth and relaxing.

The Jaguar XF S is, undoubtedly, a car for those who appreciate both performance and sophistication.