Jaguar XF Diesel S (2008): first details

By Tim Pollard

First Official Pictures

29 December 2008 00:31

Jaguar today announces a family of new higher-powered diesel engines, led by a rapid 271bhp version of the derv XF that's aimed squarely at the BMW 535d. It's the fastest diesel Jag ever – and will also slot into the XK coupe and cabrio.

The diesel work-out is good news for the XF – today's 2.7-litre V6 turbodiesel doesn't have the clout to mix it with the best German engines. We've already complained about the slothful performance of our long-term test XF and the new, bigger 3.0-litre oil-burner should answer such criticisms. Part of the problem is the XF's steel construction; it weighs significantly more than the ally-bodied XJ...

So what's new on the XF diesel?

The 2.7 is pensioned off (after only a year's service!) replaced by the new 3.0. It's essentially the same engine, just pepped up by the latest tech. That means the latest third-gen common-rail piezo injector system for even more precise fuel metering and new sequential turbos, which help provide thrust when you're in a rush for your next meeting and glug less in normal driving conditions.

Most of the work is done by a single variable-geometry blower; the larger turbo only activates above 2800rpm and it's isolated from exhaust gases until then to reduce pumping losses, says Jag.

There will be two versions of the new 3.0 V6 TD, as Jag recognises that the lion's share of sales are at the bottom end. So the 236bhp job will be the most popular model – and it's faster, cleaner and less thirsty than the old 2.7. Marvellous.

Those XF diesel specs in full

• Diesel S: 271bhp/443lb ft, 0-60mph 5.9sec, 155mph, 42.0mpg combined, 179g/km
• Diesel: 236bhp, 6.7sec, 149mph, 42.0mpg, 179g/km

Come back to CAR Online in the next few weeks to read all about the new XF-R – Jag's M5 challenger – which will have a supercharged 5.0-litre V8 and a Tarmac-wilting 500bhp, plus news of the rest of the new 5.0-litre petrol engines.

Expect both new engines to spread across Jaguar and Land Rover's ranges in the next 12 months.

By Tim Pollard