FRANCE --- If we are to believe clichés, then Porsche sells versatility, Ferrari sells exuberance, Audi sells
efficiency, Lotus sells sportiness and Jaguar sells tradition. The new XFR, however, proves exuberant,
efficient, versatile and diabolically sporty. In the halls of government, it is said that all important reform is
drawn up by the government that preceded the one that puts it into place and eventually ends up benefiting
from it. This new XF, which replaces the S-Type, was drawn up under the Ford reign, but now it is Tata who
is enjoying the benefits of it, as well as its clients, of course.
One Jaguar tradition nobody would dream of undoing just yet is the ‖R‖ label that tops of each of the
automaker‘s product lines and comes with a new 5-liter V8 engine equipped with a compressor. With its 510
hp Jaguar now has the authority it needed to run in the same circles as its Audi, BMW and Mercedes
competitors, but also to impress its American clientele. It is definitely with the latter in mind, as opposed to
the City gentlemen, that the XFR‘s designers developed the vehicle‘s more distinctive features. Four exhaust
pipes, 20-inch wheels, a fin, air vents everywhere and long chrome strips: its packaging is a bit flashy. In
fact, everything depends on color, and, in the passenger cabin, on your choices for personalization. Aboard
the vehicle, the ambiance is cozy and comfort is guaranteed. The vehicle remains unruffled in traffic and
fulfills its expectations as a Jaguar. Then curves arrive. Its pick-up and accelerations are more than
energetic: its torque is so low that you need to use restraint in all gears. Above 5,000 rpm the compressor,
which is so discreet until now, turns shrill; but the furious engine drowns it out. The true surprise comes in
the way of its handling. Those who designed it must have had some fun. The end result is a vehicle that is
just as good as the Mercedes CLS AMG and better than an RS6, even on the race track. And, when you‘re
finished with your laps, the saloon is still there waiting for you, just as sophisticated, posh and classic as
ever.