Underneath the new Jaguar XF Sportbrake

The Jaguar XF Sportbrake has now well and truly established itself in the UK luxury estate market, taking on the likes of the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series Touring and Mercedes E-Class Estate. So what’s it really like underneath the hype?

The distinctive design of the XF saloon didn’t need much tweaking to turn it into the handsome Sportbrake. The lengthened roof and high shoulder line give the car a sleek, slim profile and long, narrow front headlamps add focus to the purposeful stance. Sliding into the driver’s seat, you can’t help but feel special, a sensation Jaguar owners will know well. Cool blue lighting adds to the relaxed ambience and a generous selection of storage spaces helps keep the cabin tidy.

Some have criticised the Jaguar XF Sportbrake’s handling, but that seems a little unfair given its agility and smooth transmission. It may not be as sporty as some of its counterparts, but as a relaxed estate it more than holds its own. Acceleration is as quick as 8.2 seconds in the 2.2-litre 197bhp diesel and all engines are strong and flexible, while steering is precise and the car feels taut even through sharper corners.

Jaguar has paid attention to emissions levels and fuel economy too. Both the Sportbrake’s 2.2-litre engines return 55.4mpg and 135g/km, while the 3.0-litre V6 models produce 46mpg and 163g/km, leaving owners with smaller road tax payments and lighter fuel costs.

Technology is far from forgotten too. Standard equipment includes climate control, 7-inch colour touchscreen display, alloy wheels and a Stop/Start system. Divers can also select from a staggering array of options that cover everything from Adaptive Cruise Control and a Blind Sport Monitor to an electric glass sunroof and a Meridian Surround Sound system.