The new XF was to be the first of a new generation of Jaguars that would in some way reinvent the brand – something that Jaguar’s Head of Design, Ian Callum, saw as essential if it was to have a future.
Based on the same Ford DEW platform as the S-TYPE before it, the XF tore up the Jaguar styling rule book. With the exception of its squared-off mesh grille, there was nothing on the XF that was ‘traditional’ Jaguar. It was new, bold and brave, while inside the traditional J-Gate lever was replaced by a rotary gear selector that rose from the console when you turned the ignition key.
It was clean and clinical. Jaguar wanted to compete with BMW, Audi and Lexus, so smooth surfaces and simple controls were the order of the day. And in SV8 form – the 420bhp supercharged flagship – it was a paragon of subtlety. Look closely and you’ll notice the fat alloys, twin exhaust pipes and that mesh grille, but it’s not overtly a performance car. It may pack a punch, but it doesn’t shout about it. This, then, is the perfect Q-Car – a handsome brute of a car that doesn’t show off but is more than capable of flexing its muscles…
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
UK V5C
MOT August 2024
Originally registered to the Royal Household, believed to have been an escort or close protection vehicle
Full service history – initially main dealer, and in recnet years maintained by respected and well-known specialists Jagutek in Ely, Cambs.
Two keys
Original book pack and manuals in leather wallet
Original brochure and price list showing £54,900 cost new in 2008
Old V5 showing proof of Royal Household ownership
THE INTERIOR
Black leather sports seats
Alloy-effect and titanium trim inserts
Climate front seats – heated and cooled
Sat nav and central infotainment system – smartphone compatible
Pale elm trim details
Rotary gear selector
Premium Bowers&Wilkins stereo with incredible sound quality
Optional electric sunroof
Electric air vents – some of these stick and may require attention
Minimal wear to seats, all in very good order other than minor wear to driver’s seat, but no splits or tears
Original Jaguar factory floor mats, some wear to driver’s side
Minor marks on dash
THE EXTERIOR
Smart Lunar Grey metallic
20-inch Volans alloys – some minor kerb marks
Subtle boot lid lip spoiler
Very good overall condition with great paint finish
Some minor marks and stone chips but nothing of any real note
No dents or accident damage
Mesh sports grilles
Chrome vent details
Some minor corrosion under the chrome tail plate
MOT advisory for corrosion to inner sills may need addressing in the future
THE MECHANICS
4.2-litre supercharged V8
Six-speed automatic
420bhp
0-60mph in 4.8 seconds
Drives superbly with no known mechanical issues, strong brakes and suspension and an addictive supercharger howl
SUMMARY
With its incredible performance and striking looks, the XF SV8 is very much a modern classic as well as one of the most engaging and responsive sports saloons that money can buy.
This is a great example – well-maintained throughout its life, in a fabulous colour scheme and sumptuously equipped. It’s rare, too – one of 400 registered in the UK and 280 known to survive. Then there’s the regal provenance.
It’s the perfect under-the-radar British muscle car – a right Royal bargain.
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