[Jon D]

It all started when I began to think about changing my current 2008 330d M sport coupe for the 2010 LCI version - that was until I saw the new interior. I've had my moan on the E90 forum, but suffice it to say that it no longer feels like a 45K car.
On past experience I'd ruled the Audi A5 out because it nowhere near as satisfying and responsive as the BMW, so that left me in a dilemma until I saw the new 530d. Well, it's clear to see where the 3 series penny pinching went - what an interior. That got me thinking about a larger car and, if the gamut of reviews are accurate, it would appear that it's quite a car.
With that bigger car mindset I drove the Jaguar XF 3.0 diesel today and to say I was impressed would be a massive understatement - the handling is pin sharp with no trace of the 330's tram-lining or crashing over the slightest imperfection on RFT's.
I have a 530d test drive booked for next week, but in the interim, I'd be grateful for the opinions of anyone who's driven it.
Thanks in advance,
Jon D

[Rich535d]

You are correct; the Jag XF is very impressive.
The issue I have with the 530d is the 4,000 GBP over and above the 525d. There are 2 differences only for that money - metallic paint, and 40 bhp.
The 525d is the same engine (3.0d), but slightly detuned.
My 525d has only done 300 miles so far, so I have not had a chance to boot it, but it is not slow at all. My run toe London and back at a steady 85 mph have a fule consumption of 48mpg. I am very impressed.
Have a look at the 525d as well as the 530d

[Jon D]

Originally Posted by Rich535d

You are correct; the Jag XF is very impressive.
The issue I have with the 530d is the 4,000 GBP over and above the 525d. There are 2 differences only for that money - metallic paint, and 40 bhp.
The 525d is the same engine (3.0d), but slightly detuned.
My 525d has only done 300 miles so far, so I have not had a chance to boot it, but it is not slow at all. My run toe London and back at a steady 85 mph have a fule consumption of 48mpg. I am very impressed.
Have a look at the 525d as well as the 530d

Thanks for that Rich; I didn't know the 325 was that much cheaper yet so close on power - £100/HP is quite significant and that's before you dial in the fuel saving.
I'll obviously have to drive both before deciding. You appear to be familiar with the XF; how does it compare to the BMW?

[Rich535d]

Originally Posted by Jon D

Thanks for that Rich; I didn't know the 325 was that much cheaper yet so close on power - £100/HP is quite significant and that's before you dial in the fuel saving.
I'll obviously have to drive both before deciding. You appear to be familiar with the XF; how does it compare to the BMW?

I think it comes down to personal preference. There is no such thing as a perfect car, and even if there were, it would be different for all of us
I prefer the BMW (however I did order mine before driving it - some confidence!). I could not put my finger on it, but my wife is probably closer. Even without driving it, she said old men drive Jaguars!

[Jon D]

Originally Posted by Rich535d

Even without driving it, she said old men drive Jaguars!

Well, as it happens I'm 61 - does that qualify as old? However, I certainly don't feel it and I'm told I neither look nor act my age. Therefore, in the interests of avoiding being stereotyped, I'm hoping that the 530d will drive as well as my 330d. By all accounts I could be in for a pleasant surprise and remain with BMW, but I do think the 5er looks a bit staid and far less sporty than the XF, albeit with less of that cheap Jaguar bling. Of course, the ideal solution for me would be the 5's cabin quality and toys in a 3 coupe, but I long since gave up the quest for a perfect world.
Hopefully the 530d M Sport package won't be too far down the line.

[doctorwolf]

Interesting thread....I test drove the XF 3.0d - but decided to order the F10 525d on the basis of the preview event without a test drive. For me the XF didn't seem as well bolted together, the dash looks a little cheap and the touch screen seems fiddly. Also the fuel economy was no better than my current e60 525d. I'm expecting at least a 10% improvement from the F10.

Reading the XF forums there's clearly a lot of problems with the car & some of the Jag dealers don't look that successful or prompt in fixing them. If I wasn't driving 24k miles a year, I may have been tempted by the looks and the handling. As it is, I need something that also comes with excellent reliability and fuel economy. Hopefully the F10 will deliver.

Waiting for my delivery in early June, in the meantime I'm encouraged by the favourable comments - especially the improved run flats