3.0D (240ps) Premium Luxury

Highly satisfying, quick and luxurious load carrier, with looks to match

The XF Sportbrake is one of those cars that I always look forward to driving. The hushed engine, serene ride (on 18" wheels and standard suspension) and lovely cabin ambience impart an immediate sense of occasion. Six months and 6,000 miles from new, it has been faultless so far. I'm glad I went for the six-cylinder engine. Even in base 240PS form it is potent, but very sweet and refined and passengers have been surprised that it's a diesel. The 8-speed transmission shifts unobtrusively, but using the paddles to shift manually is very satisfying and potentially improves economy. With its precise steering, eager turn-in and taut, agile handling, the car is as much a pleasure on twisty roads as motorways, while the ride is firm but compliant and comfortable. Having hauled some heavy loads, the self-levelling rear air suspension seems to work exactly as intended. In such a well-engineered car, the so-so satnav and touchscreen interface are easy to forgive, especially as the Meridian hi-fi is superb. Be sure to specify the excellent rear parking camera option, which also adds front sensors to the standard rear ones.

Report as offensive