It has been a long time coming. Why? That’s because the new XF first broke cover over a year ago. And details for the India-spec version surfaced a few months ago. But you know what they say – better late than never. So, here we are! Finally, the new Jaguar XF is here. It is available in two R-Dynamic S variants. Get it with a petrol-powered heart, and the asking price is Rs 71.6 lakh. On the other hand, Diesel fans will have to shed Rs 76 lakh (both prices are ex-showroom India).

Let’s talk engines first. The 2.0-litre turbo-petrol pumps out 247bhp/365Nm, whereas the 2.0-litre turbo-diesel generates 201bhp/430Nm. Jaguar has also equipped the latter with a mild-hybrid system. As standard, both powerplants come coupled to an 8-speed automatic transmission, with all the oomph going to the rear wheels. With the petrol engine, the new XF can hit 100kmph from a standstill in 6.9 seconds and clock 250kmph at full blast. Get the diesel, and you can complete the standard sprint in 7.6 seconds. And the top speed is 235kmph. For the record, both those combos also do duty in the Range Rover Velar and the Jaguar F-Pace.

Coming to the list of features, it is a lengthy one. The car dons several blacked-out elements to justify the ‘R-Dynamic S’ tag on the outside. Also, there are LED-powered headlamps with DRLs and 18-inch alloy wheels. Indoors, the new XF packs a 10-colour ambient lighting system, 12-way powered front seats with memory function, an 11.4-inch Pivi Pro infotainment system and support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. In addition, you get a 3D surround camera, front and rear parking aid, cruise control, and emergency brake assist on the safety front.

In India, the new Jaguar XF competes with the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Lexus ES and the recently launched Volvo S90 mild-hybrid. Out of the lot, which one is your favourite?