The Jaguar XF has been one of the last traditional four-door saloons produced by Jaguar before the brand transitions into luxury electric cars. Despite its impending retirement, the XF has been highly regarded since its launch in 2007, offering sleek design, excellent handling, and a competitive price point. However, Jaguar has struggled to sell enough cars to sustain the saloon lineup. To understand the appeal of Jaguar saloons, the author visits locations associated with famous Jaguar owners.
The first stop is Hammersmith, where the fictional character Arthur Daley from the TV show Minder resided. Arthur Daley, a lovable rogue and used car salesman, was often seen driving an XJ or Daimler Sovereign. Unfortunately, the area has undergone gentrification, and there is no longer a place for Daley’s way of life or for a traditional saloon like the XF.
Next, the author visits Southall Gasworks, a location associated with the Metropolitan Police’s Flying Squad division depicted in the TV show The Sweeney. The main character, Jack Regan, often chased criminals in Jaguars due to their excellent handling and speed. The XF still captures the driving characteristics that appealed to rebellious individuals back then.
However, even Southall has undergone gentrification, so the author heads to Millbank, home to MI6, the Secret Intelligence Service. Although this location represents establishment and conformity, even here, there are shades of nonconformity and allowed indiscretions. Dame Judi Dench, who played M in the Bond films, owns a Jaguar and represents the establishment with a hint of rebelliousness.
To fully experience the XF’s capabilities, the author takes a drive on twisty Home Counties back roads. The XF impresses with its agility, steering precision, and balance. It offers a level of fun and engagement that is hard to find in electric vehicles or SUVs.
The article concludes by acknowledging the XF’s success in its segment, competing with solid rivals like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Although the XF couldn’t save the brand, it provided a strong foundation for future models like the F-Type, F-Pace, and the new XJ. The XF embodies unique traits like elegance, boldness, and nonconformity that should be retained in future Jaguar saloons.
In summary, the Jaguar XF has been a successful and well-regarded saloon, offering exceptional handling and design. While the brand transitions to electric vehicles, the XF represents a unique breed of cars that appeal to individuals seeking something different, rebellious, and uncompromising.
