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2019 Jaguar XFS Sportbrake

The 2020 Jaguar XF Has a Long Way to Go to Be Considered a Luxury Contender

If you’re looking for a cool luxury vehicle with a lot of horsepower, Jaguars are usually the way to go. Models like the Jaguar XF Sportbrake can produce 380 hp and can quickly rocket away from the starting line. However, it appears that many Jaguar owners don’t stay fond of their cars for very long. …

If you’re looking for a cool luxury vehicle with a lot of horsepower, Jaguars are usually the way to go. Models like the Jaguar XF Sportbrake can produce 380 hp and can quickly rocket away from the starting line. However, it appears that many Jaguar owners don’t stay fond of their cars for very long.

While a Jaguar is an attractive option, many of its vehicles have a lot of shortcomings compared to the competition. In KBB’s best luxury midsize cars list for 2020, the Jaguar XF finished in dead last place. Here’s where the Jaguar XF falters and how so many rivals do it better.

The Jaguar XF is not the best value

One notable flaw that Jaguar XF has is a lack of tech features. With the base model, you get standard smartphone integration, Bluetooth, a premium audio system, and a single USB port. Considering the lowest trim starts at over $50,000, it’s not the greatest value for your money.

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a better pick if you require all the latest gadgets. In addition to what the XF offers, it comes with built-in navigation, HD radio, and even a touchpad controller. The E-Class also offers a slew of unique available features, like an in-car fragrance system.

Engine options cause varying ride quality

The Jaguar XF has three different engines on tap, all of which provide sufficient power for daily driving. The speediest offering is a supercharged V6 capable of 380 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque. However, WhatCar reported that the car has a stiff ride quality overall and some engines create a lot of noise inside the cabin.

The BMW 5 Series sedan handles itself much better on the road. Critics have described its ride quality as smooth and it’s one of the most engaging luxury vehicles to drive. Plus, it has more powerful engine choices, including a 617-hp V8.

Subpar interior quality

When shopping for a luxury sedan, one typically expects the cabin to be made from premium materials. The Jaguar XF comes with leather seats, but some critics reported that it feels cheap compared to other vehicles they had reviewed. Car and Driver noted that the infotainment system can also be a hassle to use.

The Audi A6 has high-quality leather seats, as well as plenty of soft touch points inside the cabin. Critics have also reported that the E-Class’s cabin feels much more upscale than the one inside the Jaguar XF. Both of these rivals offer luxe wood and metal trim options.

Very few safety features

This Jaguar XF only comes with two standard safety features: emergency brake assist and parking sensors. While more safety options are available, one would expect a bit more for a vehicle in its price range. The Jaguar XF has also not been officially tested by neither the NHTSA nor the IIHS.

The Genesis G80 gives drivers a little more peace of mind. Nearly all of its driver’s aids come standard, including lane-keeping assistance, distracted driver alerts, and automatic emergency braking. The Lexus ES also comes with an expansive safety suite, plus excellent crash test scores.

The Lexus ES is the best midsize luxury car

Out of all the cars in its class, the Lexus ES was Kelley Blue Book’s favorite. It received high marks for its whisper-quiet cabin, a multitude of standard features, and top-notch engines. Reviewers also appreciated the fact that it’s available as a hybrid.

The Jaguar XF does have a few strengths, like ample cargo room and excellent gas mileage. However, it can’t beat many other cars in the segment in terms of overall quality. If it wants to prove itself as a true luxury contender, the Jaguar XF needs some work.