2009 Jaguar XF: All-New Chance or Last Hurrah?

It sets the precedent, the design language of all future Jaguar products. A curvaceous, coupe-like, roof is flanked by wide, muscular, rear haunches; all reminiscent of the beautiful XK. The trademark Jaguar grill is larger, more imposing, and -- dare we say it? -- masculine.  Elegant and sporty, the 2009 XF bears no resemblance to any previous Jaguar, but it is the embodiment of Jaguar's core values. 

Unlike any previous Jaguar as well, the 2009 XF's svelte exterior does not hide a cramped interior. Indeed, the new 2009 XF will comfortably seat 5 adults. Neither is it old fashioned, as it too, has undergone a drastic change. The sumptuous wood and leather is still present, but the look is contemporary and fresh, the buttons and dials akin to a Motorola Razr. Entering the car has the start button pulsing like a beating heart, and upon starting the new JaguarDrive Selector rises to meet your hand while the air vents simultaneously open. Owners will even come to find there's a generous 17.6 cu. Ft. of trunk space, expandable by another 14.8 cu. Ft. with the rear seats folded.

The powertrains will come as no surprise to any Jaguar fan, as the XF is still motivated by the venerable 4.2 liter V-8, both naturally aspirated and supercharged, and the same ZF 6-speed automatic found throughout the range, albeit here with the XK's paddle shifters.

Like all cars in the segment, the 2009 XF will come with a myriad of electronic driver aids, such as DSC, ABS, EBD, etc.

Our take? Jaguar is entering uncharted territories with this car. There's always been a progression, to its cars, evolutionary in style, underappreciated in the present but always remembered fondly when looking back. This car however, is the first to play to contemporary tastes, and not draw in any way upon Jaguar's heritage.

It is reminiscent of the Mercedes CLS in execution; unfortunately Jaguar is hedging its bets on the success of this model with no equivalent E-class to fall back on. The public cried out for something new from Jaguar, something more like its competitors, well they got it. This car is not timeless like previous Jaguar designs though; it's very now. If it doesn't age well, and with Jaguar's slow turn around for new products, it just may be the curtain call for the manufacturer itself.

via PR Newswire