Jaguar XFR 5.0 V8 supercharged

Sep 27 2009 Jonathan Smith

THERE are a handful of occasions that can be guaranteed to lift your patriotic spirits.

The Last Night of the Proms is a definite one. So is an Ashes win for England. Well, I've stumbled upon a third momentous event - sitting behind the wheel, or more precisely, driving the Jaguar XFR.

This isn't just any XF. The R version has a thunderous supercharged five-litre V8, bulging bonnet. It also has the most perfect, hand-stitched leather upholstery.

Not only is the performance monstrous - 0-62mph takes a mere 4.7 seconds - but the whole experience lifts a mundane car journey into another realm. The fact that it is wearing a Jaguar badge - although sadly there's no sign of the traditional springing big cat figure - is very much a Land of Hope And Glory moment.

Getting away from the surreal for a moment, this big saloon with supercar performance from its 503 horsepower still manages to be easy-going everyday transport that won't turn too many heads. Yes, its lines are attractive and pleasing but it doesn't posses the flashiness of say a Maserati Quattroporte, which for many owners who want an uncluttered private life, will be a blessing. And yes, at £59,900 it's expensive but a look at the competition makes its look a serious snip.

Adorned in ultimate black, with charcoal and tan leather trim, the test car was an example of style with a just about the right degree of British restraint. The cabin is contemporary, as befits the XF, but very individual. It possesses an originality of style and has clear dials and efficiently placed switchgear. It also gives more than a nod to the practicalities of everyday life - such as loads of cup-holders and pockets. The snug sports seats and the exquisite dark oak wood add a sense of occasion to the interior.

There's ample space for four but the rear may be a bit tight for a fifth passenger and headroom in the back is just about ok for a six-footer.

It pays to hold good and tight to the steering wheel - heated, by the way - when you stab the load pedal because this Big Cat has a supercharged spring in its step.

With in excess of 500bhp, acceleration is phenomenal. Without the electronic limiter, the XFR would be capable of close to 180mph. As it is, it cuts in at 155mph - fast enough for most.

Despite this huge urge, it is an easy car to drive with a massive repertoire of ability. The six speed automatic gearbox has paddles if you want to take control, but you won't do any better than the computer system which is smooth, efficient and unbelievably fast.

Handling and ride is an ideal compromise between comfort and performance, allowing the keen driver to press on with very little roll. Yet, passengers won't complain about having their spines jarred or their fillings shaken out. It's refined and poised at all times, and the steering is so good it almost second-guesses your intentions.

Of course, there's a price to pay for this degree of perfection - and not just the original purchase tag. Fuel consumption in my hands averaged around 20.5mpg, although the official combined figure is a slightly more acceptable 22.5mpg.

In many ways, the XFR feels more Bentley sports than Jag. And on that basis, it really is a bargain.

FAST FACTS

Jaguar XFR 5.0 V8 supercharged

Price: £59,900

Mechanical: 510bhp, 5,000cc, 8cyl petrol engine driving rear wheels via 6-speed automatic gearbox

Max speed: 155mph

0-62mph: 4.7 seconds

Combined mpg: 22.5

Insurance group: 20

CO2 emissions: 292g/km

BIK rating: 35%

Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited mileage