Jaguar XF Sportbrake

Jaguar has finally launched the second-generation XF Sportbrake estate, a handsome lifestyle load-carrier with all the driving appeal of the Big Cat brand, Jaguar XF Sportbrake. WORDS: Andy Russell. .

SPACE AND COMFORT

Looking for a roomy executive estate? The Sportbrake measures up with acres of rear legroom and enough headroom for sixfooters with that sloping roof, even if you opt for the huge panoramic sunroof. The Sportbrake is more lifestyle estate than ultimate load-lugger. The 565-litre boot makes up for what it lacks in depth by going back a long way and adjustable securing points on runners along the floor add to its versatility. The estate’s rear seat backs split 40/20/40 and fold flat with the floor, released via levers in the boot, to transport long, thin items along with two rear passengers. A tyre inflation kit makes space for some underfloor storage.

HOW IT DRIVES

The Sportbrake gets self-levelling air suspension to keep it on an even keel with its larger load-carrying duties, but still drives like a true Jaguar with a wellbalanced agility on twisty roads that belies a big car nearly five metres long. The ride is even more impressive, despite 20in wheels instead of standard 18in ones. It’s firm enough to let you know what’s going on beneath the wheels, but won’t shake your fillings out, although there’s noticeable tyre roar on corrugated motorway surfaces.

UNDER THE BONNET

Plenty of choice with Ingenium family 2.0- litre turbo units – 250 and 300PS petrol and 163PS, 180PS and 240PS diesel – plus a 300PS 3.0-litre V6 diesel. All-wheel drive is available and eight-speed automatic standard on all but the 163PS diesel. The twin-turbo 240PS AWD test car sounded a bit gruff when worked and, while making light work of overtaking, doesn’t feel as quick as the figures suggest. Real-world MPG was 37 running around and 43 on a run.

FINAL SAY

Estate cars fit mine and my wife’s lifestyle perfectly. Even better, should the opportunity ever arise, the XF Sportbrake fits our garage… just.

sources: Berkshire Life, August 2018