Jaguar XF in Epic Economy Run
The headline may indeed come as a shock to many of you out there, but you have not switched into an alternate reality. Jaguar has indeed attempted an economy run across America – and in fact the XF performed admirably, along the way shedding its maker’s reputation for dark, heavy, gluttonous saloons.
From New York to Los Angeles, the XF 2.2 Diesel averaged an incredible 4.49 litres per 100 KM over a distance of 4,641 KM – the equivalent of travelling from London to the Sahara – making it the most efficient Jaguar ever created.
Finishing in Los Angeles, California on Monday, November 14, the journey took in 11 states, three time zones and eight days. Yet the XF only required four stops for fuel – managing a peak economy of 4.21 litres per 100 KM on the penultimate day of the trip.
“This project was designed primarily to test the potential economy of the XF 2.2. The incredible figures achieved by the car were accomplished through making every element of the new XF as efficient as possible – from its aerodynamics to its four-cylinder 2.2-litre diesel engine linked to an eight-speed gearbox. The whole XF team is incredibly proud of what’s been achieved and is a graphic demonstration of the strength, engineering integrity and efficiency of the car,” commented Paul Alcock, XF Project Manager at Jaguar.
The drivers’ were David and Alexander Madgwick, two independent testers from the UK. The XF 2.2 was a scrupulously standard, UK registered, right-hand drive Jaguar. In the course of the coast to coast adventure, the car maintained an average speed of 85 km/h incorporating a multitude of real-life scenarios including the busy roads exiting New York and, towards the end of the trip, entering Los Angeles, road works, high winds and a climb to 7,275 feet above sea level.
Throw away your “eco” hat and the XF 2.2 maintains the levels of performance expected of a Jaguar saloon – so it’s capable of gobbling up the 100 KM/H sprint in a little over 8-seconds and wafting up to a top speed of 225 KM/H. Not to mention the XF is able to carry five adults in absolute comfort with space for their luggage. Remind me, is there any downside to a Jaguar?
Miles Downard