NEW JAG PURRS LIKE A CAT
Smooth and sleek with subtle curb appeal, the 2017 Jaguar XF 20d is one fun little cat.
The fuel-sipping diesel version of the sporty fourdoor sedan wastes little time vying for your luxury segment dollar, and though it doesn’t offer the same exhaust snarl as its gas-fueled cousins, the 20d certainly performs like them.
Under the smartly crafted cowl, the 2.0-liter, 180-horsepower diesel happily purrs. Quick off the line, powerful when the turbo kicks in and plenty fast enough on the highway, this premium cruiser is a player with segment mates from BMW, Audi and Cadillac.
This solidly built all wheel-Jag handles beautifully — particularly in Dynamic driving mode — and still gets a strong 40 miles per gallon in Eco on the highway. Naturally Dynamic, one of three choices, was my favorite thanks to its taut suspension and tight shift points. And despite the fun ride, it’s a comfortable touring sedan once you settle in.
The rearview camera and tilt-down mirrors make
parking easier. The heated and cooled leather seats are easy on your back and legs and ample legroom in the rear makes seating five people a breeze.
The cabin noise isn’t as muted as some of the larger Jaguars I’ve tested, but after all, this car is slotted to compete in the sport sedan category. The diesel rumble tends to be pronounced until it warms up and the low-profile tires — which are mounted on machined 19-inch rims — contribute to an uptick in noise.
Workmanship in the inviting cabin stands out. Cross-stitching is tight and the various textured surfaces are nicely put-together. The 10.2-inch touch screen infotainment display dominates the center of the curved dash while the simple two-gauge instrument panel sits in a deep well conveying a cockpit feel to the sedan. Prominent in the center console is the famed Jaguar circular knob shifter.
The infotainment center has a bit of a learning curve. Connecting the car to your smartphone is a breeze, but channel-surfing the upscale Meridian 360-watt sound system takes a little getting used to. Once it’s set, the cabin fills with well-balanced sound.
With a sticker of $62,895, the fully loaded 20d has some of the refinements that make a difference. Simple items like the screen on the panoramic sunroof and the powered trunk lid set these luxury crafts apart from the mainstream.
Needless to say, the 20d is packed with safety features and the collision alert system will help you keep your Jag away from any immediate danger.