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Jaguar XF: X250 and X260 generations, engines and trims
The Jaguar XF is a business-class saloon that replaced the Jaguar S-Type in 2007 and competed with the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. In the used market, it often undercuts its German rivals, but requires a thorough inspection. We look at the X250 and X260 generations, engines, trims and what to check before buying.
XF in brief
The XF was produced in two generations: X250 (2007–2015) and X260 (2015–2024). Both were offered as saloons and estates – the Sportbrake – with the X250 Sportbrake arriving in 2012 and the X260 in 2017. The cars were built in England, at the Castle Bromwich plant.
The XF is praised for its styling, comfortable yet precise ride and distinctive interior. In the first generation, the gear selector was a rotary dial that popped up from the centre console when the engine was started; this design persisted in the X260 until the facelift.
What sets the X250 and X260 apart
The X250 (2007–2015) is technically close to the S-Type. The 2011 refresh brought slimmer headlights and a four-cylinder 2.2-litre diesel, while around the same time an eight-speed automatic gearbox was introduced. It’s a classic-style car, but already showing its age.
The X260 (2015–2024) features a new, mostly aluminium body: the car is lighter, roomier at the rear, with new Ingenium engines and the option of all-wheel drive. The 2020 facelift brought a new infotainment system and a conventional gear selector.
It's wiser to opt for the X260 in the used market — it's more modern and economical. The X250 is cheaper, but its repairs and maintenance can cost as much as a newer car.
Engines and transmissions
The X250 most commonly comes with diesel engines — 2.7 and 3.0 V6 (around 207–275 hp), and after the facelift, a four-cylinder 2.2 (around 163–200 hp). Petrol options include 3.0 V6, 4.2, and 5.0 V8, while the sporty XFR features a 5.0 V8 with a supercharger (around 510 hp).
The X260 typically features 2.0 Ingenium diesels (around 163–240 hp) and a 3.0 V6 diesel (around 300 hp). Petrol engines include the 2.0 Ingenium (around 200–300 hp) and a 3.0 V6 with a supercharger (around 340–380 hp).
Most XF models come with an automatic transmission: the X250 initially had a 6-speed unit, later upgraded to an 8-speed ZF, while the X260 features an 8-speed ZF. Manual transmissions are rare. All-wheel drive was more widely available in the X260.
What to check when buying a used XF
In V6 diesel engines, regular oil change history is crucial — long intervals are linked to piston ring and connecting rod bearing failures. Ask about the condition of the turbocharger and EGR system, and for cars that have done a lot of urban miles, check the diesel particulate filter (DPF).
Early 2.0 Ingenium diesels may have timing chain issues — the cold engine shouldn't rattle after starting. Also, check for coolant leaks and ensure that any manufacturer recall work has been carried out.
Test the electronics: the infotainment system, the rotary gear shifter, parking sensors and cameras. Aluminium bodywork repair after an accident is complex and costly, so check the gaps between panels and paint thickness.
Trims
Names and equipment changed according to the year and market; we list the trims most commonly found in Europe.
Luxury
X250The base trim of the first generation, already quite well-equipped.
- Leather interior
- Automatic climate control
- Often — parking sensors and navigation
Premium Luxury
X250A more luxurious version for comfort lovers.
- Larger alloy wheels
- Often — xenon headlights
- More luxurious interior trim
Portfolio
X250 and X260One of the top trims with the most luxurious interior.
- Higher-grade leather upholstery
- Often — heated and ventilated seats
- Often — premium sound system
Prestige
X260 (up to 2020)Popular second-generation trim with a stylish look.
- Leather interior
- Often — xenon or LED headlights
- Navigation and parking sensors
R-Sport
X260 (up to 2020)Sporty-looking version without a sporty engine.
- Sporty bumpers and alloy wheels
- Sport seats
- Often — darker interior trim
S
X260Sport version with the most powerful V6 engines.
- 3.0 V6 petrol with a supercharger or 3.0 V6 diesel
- Sporty bumpers and larger alloy wheels
- Often — adaptive suspension
Comparison of X260 generations
| Prestige | Portfolio | R-Sport | S | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For daily driving | For comfort and luxury | Sporty looks | For driving pleasure |
| Wheels (most common) | 17–18 inch | 18–19 inch | 18–19 inch | 19–20 inch |
| Interior | Leather | Premium leather trim | Sport seats | Sport seats, S trim |
| Engine | 2.0 diesel and petrol engines | 2.0 or 3.0 | 2.0 diesel and petrol engines | 3.0 V6 |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Budget-friendly | Mid-range | Mid-range | Premium |
For most buyers, the best choice is the X260 Prestige or R-Sport with a 2.0 diesel or petrol engine and a clear service history. Opt for the S if V6 power and sportier driving are important to you.
Pros
- Distinctive design and interior
- Comfortable yet precise handling
- Often cheaper than German rivals in the used market
- The X260 generation's lightweight aluminium body and economical diesels
Cons
- More expensive repairs and fewer specialists familiar with this model
- Quickly depreciating value
- Known issues with V6 engines and early Ingenium diesels
Frequently asked questions
Which Jaguar XF generation to choose?
For many buyers, the best choice is the X260 generation: it's lighter, more economical and more modern. The X250 suits those who appreciate its classic design and who find a well-maintained car with a service history.
Is the Jaguar XF reliable?
It depends on the engine and maintenance. Cars that have their oil changed regularly and have had recall work done on time will last longer, although repairs are usually more expensive than those of German rivals.
How do the Jaguar XF and XE differ?
The XE is the smaller Jaguar saloon, rivalling the BMW 3 Series, while the XF is a larger, BMW 5 Series-class car with a more spacious rear seat and bigger boot. Both have similar Ingenium engines.
Is it worth choosing the XF Sportbrake?
Yes, if you need more boot space – the Sportbrake has an estate body, while the mechanics and trim levels are almost the same as the saloon. Such cars are less common, so the search might take longer.
Updated 2026-10-09 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
