9 Best & Worst Jaguar XF Years (With Facts & Stats)

The Jaguar XF is a luxury midsize sedan that was introduced as a 2009 model year.

It offers a balanced ride, competent handling, and spacious seating. 

In this article, we’ll be going through all of the best and worst model years of the XF.

Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Jaguar XF Are:

The best Jaguar XF model years are 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, and 2016. The worst model years of this model are 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.

What Are The Best Years For The Jaguar XF?

2024, 2023, 2022, and 2021 Jaguar XF

The 2024, 2023, 2022, and 2021 XF model years are the latest and most technologically updated versions from the lineup.

They are grouped together due to their many similarities, with the only significant distinctions being slight adjustments in equipment, features, and minor changes in trim levels.

The most recent model year is available in two primary trim levels: the P250 R-Dynamic SE and the P300 R-Dynamic SE. The starting price for the P250 R-Dynamic SE is $51,075, and the P300 R-Dynamic SE begins at $54,775.

Due to a relatively small price difference between the trim levels, we suggest going for the P300 R-Dynamic SE trim for the best value for money.

A major difference between the P250 and P300 is engine power. While both possess an identical turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder engine, there is a stark difference in horsepower (246 vs 296) and even torque (269 pound-feet vs. 295 pound-feet).

Both trims offer impressive fuel efficiency. According to the EPA, these models are capable of achieving a combined city and highway fuel economy of between 24 to 26 MPG.

Notable safety features include:

  • Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go
  • Rear Traffic Monitor
  • Traffic Sign Recognition and Adaptive Speed Limiter

2024 Jaguar XF:

  • Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.8 / 5.0

2024 Jaguar XF:

  • Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.8 / 5.0

2024 Jaguar XF:

  • Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.8 / 5.0

2024 Jaguar XF:

  • Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.8 / 5.0

2021 Jaguar XF, Edmunds Review:

“I first drove a base XF in premium trim, then I drove XF S AWD. And wow, does the XF S AWD drive! The steering feel, handling, and responsiveness far exceed the Audi and the BMW 5 series. If you care about the joy of driving, you owe it to yourself to check out the XF. It just feels lighter and more responsive. The XF’s interior is simple, elegant, uncluttered, reminicent of a comfortable driver’s cockpit, which is what I prefer…”

2020 and 2019 Jaguar XF

The 2019 and 2020 XF models are solid picks, both of which have secured respectable reviews from owners and auto journalists alike. They are part of the second XF generation introduced for 2016

Both are comfortable to drive, packed with safety features, and provide generous passenger and cargo room.

New for these models are standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a standard 10-inch Touch Pro touchscreen infotainment system.

Specific for the 2019 model year is the introduction of the 300 Sport Trim that offers a whopping 296-horsepower engine (along with unique design elements).

The 2020 model year, on the other hand, introduces a Checkered Flag Edition trim level.

Based on reviews from owners we found online, these are the positive aspects of the models:

  • Comfort
  • Driving experience
  • Appearance
  • Acceleration
  • Ride quality
  • Seats

Notable safety features include:

  • Closing Vehicle Sensins
  • Reverse Traffic Monitor
  • Traffic Sign Recognition

2020 Jaguar XF:

  • Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.8 / 5.0

2019 Jaguar XF:

  • Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.8 / 5.0

2019 Jaguar XF, Edmunds Review:

“Have had this car for 2 years now. Overall extremely satisfied with the car. 33 mpg on road trips in a car with 340hp is great. Very smooth ride quality. Seats, after two years, are still very supportive. I’m 6’2 240 lbs and am very comfortable. Tires have, so far, lasted 28,000 miles which is fabulous…”

2018, 2017, and 2016 Jaguar XF

These XF models are the first installments of the second generation, featuring a comprehensive redesign that includes a roomier interior thanks to an extended wheelbase, a construction largely made of aluminum for reduced weight and better fuel economy, refined exterior design tweaks, the continuation of the supercharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, and the introduction of sophisticated infotainment features.

They are fun and engaging to drive, come in rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive (for all trim levels), and are complemented with a well-appointed cabin.

There are 6 trims available: Base, Premium, Prestige, R-Sport, Portfolio, and S.

There are also a handful of helpful packages. The Vision Assist package equips the vehicle with adaptive LED headlights with auto high beam assist, front and rear parking sensors, and front collision mitigation, among other features.

The Technology package upgrades the touchscreen infotainment screen from a meager 8-inch screen to a sizable 10.2-inch screen, integrates navigation, and replaces the traditional driver’s analog instrument panel with a large 12.3-inch digital display.

The Cold Climate package places heaters in both front and rear seats, the steering wheel, the windshield, and even in the washer jets. 

2018 Jaguar XF:

  • Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.8 / 5.0

2017 Jaguar XF:

  • Edmunds: 4.1 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.8 / 5.0

2016 Jaguar XF:

  • Edmunds: 3.8 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.8 / 5.0

2016 Jaguar XF, Edmunds Review:

“So…I’ve owned pretty much every German brand, a few Japanese cars and two American sports cars. I wasn’t even considering Jaguar as an option for this go-around, but stopped at the dealership to check out the XE (boy was that TOO small). Then I sat in the XF and realized this was the perfect car (fit and finish). Once I took it for a test drive I was hooked. It feels like a big cat ready to leap out of it’s skin…”

Consumer Scores For Best Jaguar XF Years

Model YearEdmunds
Consumer Rating
Kelley Blue Book
Consumer Rating
2024 Jaguar XF4.3 / 5.04.8 / 5.0
2023 Jaguar XF4.3 / 5.04.8 / 5.0
2022 Jaguar XF4.3 / 5.04.8 / 5.0
2021 Jaguar XF4.3 / 5.04.8 / 5.0
2020 Jaguar XF4.3 / 5.04.8 / 5.0
2019 Jaguar XF4.3 / 5.04.8 / 5.0
2018 Jaguar XF4.3 / 5.04.8 / 5.0
2017 Jaguar XF4.1 / 5.04.8 / 5.0
2016 Jaguar XF3.8 / 5.04.8 / 5.0

Related: 9 Best & Worst Jaguar S-Type Years (With Facts & Stats)

What Are The Worst Years For The Jaguar XF?

2009, 2010, and 2011 Jaguar XF

The 2009, 2010, and 2011 model years of the XF are the most problematic versions ever produced based on NHTSA data.

There are 2 main issues for these models: Airbag-related problems (as a result of the Takata recall) and fuel system issues.

The airbag-related issues are due to the infamous Takata airbag recall.

Takata, a third-party supplier, was responsible for providing airbag systems to a wide range of car manufacturers, but faced issues with defective inflators that led to malfunctions, impacting millions of vehicles throughout the 2000s and 2010s.

Nonetheless, the primary issue reported has been significant delays in obtaining the necessary parts for replacement and repair.

“Takata recall I was notified that the parts are currently unavailable to fix the issue, but that the problem may cause serious injury or death. It seems that in the event of a problem of this nature, if a remedy is not available, there should be an alternative, for example compensation that helps affected drivers rent or buy a different vehicle…” – CarProblemZoo.com

On the fuel system front, numerous reports indicated fuel leaks which prompted a corresponding recall campaign to address the issues of everyone affected.

Just like the airbag recall campaign, those who suffered from fuel system problems were made to wait for unreasonable periods of time.

Another commonly reported issue was an inaccurate fuel gauge. Owners were found in unsafe and inconvenient situations as their vehicles would shut down while driving due to insufficient fuel, despite the fuel gauge indicating otherwise. 

“Car suddenly stop accelerating in the middle of the freeway. I had to pull to the side which was hard since power steering and everything was not working since the engine seemed to shut off. Ended up figuring out that it had run out of fuel but the gas gauge showed around 1/4 left and no fuel low warning ever showed…” – CarProblemZoo.com

  • The 2009 Jaguar XF had a total of 3 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 118 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
  • The 2010 Jaguar XF had a total of 3 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 130 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
  • The 2011 Jaguar XF had a total of 2 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 92 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.

Common problems:

  • Dies while driving
  • Sudden unintended acceleration
  • Gear box issues
  • Premature brake wear
  • Bubbles on dashboard
  • Key fob issues
  • Inaccurate fuel warning

2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015 Jaguar XF

The 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015 XF model years inherited a few of the major issues exhibited by their predecessors but also brought about a new set of problems.

The most pressing issues all dealt with various equipment-related problems. These included the following:

  • Head bonnet opening unexpectedly
  • Steering lockup
  • Coolant leakage
  • Dashboard bubbling and separation
  • Vehicle rolling back while idling

“I have a big issue with my dashboard starting to come apart because the adhesive Jaguar used to hold down the leather is not holding. How many complaints need to be documented before Jaguar addresses the issue. I have researched and found that Jaguar is using staples on the replacement dashboards to keep this from occurring but what about my car?” – CarProblemZoo.com

  • The 2012 Jaguar XF had a total of 4 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 47 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
  • The 2013 Jaguar XF had a total of 4 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 49 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
  • The 2014 Jaguar XF had a total of 3 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 17 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
  • The 2015 Jaguar XF had a total of 2 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 27 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.

Common problems:

  • Loss of power
  • Car stalls while driving
  • TPMS indicator light flashing
  • Engine seizure
  • Engine piston and ring defects
  • Timing chain failure
  • Engine knocking
  • Door not locking
  • Bubbles on dashboard

What Years Have The Most Complaints?

Model YearComplaints
(CarComplaints.com)
Problems
(CarProblemZoo.com)
Recalls
(NHTSA.gov)
2024 Jaguar XF0
2023 Jaguar XF0
2022 Jaguar XF31
2021 Jaguar XF1
2020 Jaguar XF00
2019 Jaguar XF00
2018 Jaguar XF023
2017 Jaguar XF052
2016 Jaguar XF160
2015 Jaguar XF2275
2014 Jaguar XF3177
2013 Jaguar XF44912
2012 Jaguar XF4475
2011 Jaguar XF2924
2010 Jaguar XF313010
2009 Jaguar XF31186

What Problems Do Jaguar XF Have?

  • Dies while driving
  • Sudden unintended acceleration
  • Gear box issues
  • Premature brake wear
  • Bubbles on dashboard
  • Key fob issues
  • Inaccurate fuel warning
  • Loss of power
  • Car stalls while driving
  • TPMS indicator light flashing
  • Engine seizure
  • Engine piston and ring defects
  • Timing chain failure
  • Engine knocking
  • Door not locking

What Are The Best Alternatives To The Jaguar XF?

Make & ModelScoreMSRPFuel Economy (MPG)
Mercedes-Benz E-Class8.7$56,750 – $121,100City: 16 – 23 /Highway: 24 – 31
Audi A68.5$58,100 – $71,700City: 22 – 23 /Highway: 30 – 33
BMW 5-Series8.5$56,00 – $81,500City: 17 – 25 /Highway: 25 – 33
Genesis G808.4$54,400 – $64,250City: 17 – 22 /Highway: 25 – 30
Lexus ES8.2$42,040 – $50,930City: 22 – 25 /Highway: 31 – 34
Volvo S908.2$57,00 – $62,550City: 23 /Highway: 32
Lexus ES Hybrid8.1$43,340 – $52,130City: 43 /Highway: 44
Acura TLX7.8$40,050 – $51,250City: 21 – 22 /Highway: 29 – 31
Jaguar XF7.6$49,800 – $53,500City: 21 – 23 /Highway: 29 – 30
Cadillac CT57.4$38,395 – $44,095City: 18 – 23 /Highway: 26 – 33

Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com

Related: 9 Best & Worst Jaguar XJ Years (With Stats & Data)

References

Author:

  • Ian Sawyer

    Growing up with a father who was a mechanic I had an appreciation for cars and motorcycles from an early age. I shared my first bike with my brother that had little more than a 40cc engine but it opened up a world of excitement for me, I was hooked. As I grew older I progressed onto bigger bikes and...