In the domain of higher end estate cars, the mantle has long been held by BMW, Audi and Mercedes. Refinement, reliability and good looks are very important in this sector, and driving enjoyment is at times overlooked when opting for diesel engines, which almost everyone does these days.
As raucous and ridiculously fun the RS6s, M5s and C63s are, the reality of fuel prices mean we plump for less fun but sensible diesel engines. Which just aren’t as fun. Aren’t they?
Well, the XF Sportbrake R Sport is flipping fun. It feels light and deft and beautifully balanced. It feels forward and eager, and sounds brilliant when you get a bit pedal-happy. The 3.0 V6 Tdi engine will give you 46mpg combined and will get you to 60mph in a lively 6.2 seconds.
The interior is not as capacious as a Merc but is beautifully finished, with a gear lever that rises, Phoenix like, from the centre console as you turn the key and the vent casings rotate open. It’s all very cool.
This car is a serious contender in the luxury estate car market, and if you want something a little different, you’ve found the one.
From £39,860
Jaguar
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