Jaguar Adding XF Supercharged for 2010
Although the Jaguar XF is still fresh in the market, the British-based automaker is intent not to let the car grow old (like the S-Type did) following the introduction of the all-new XJ flagship sedan. After just two years on the market, Jaguar is shaking up the engine lineup on the XF to offer improved performance and offer another option for those looking to get behind the wheel of Jaguar's sexy sedan. New for 2010, the Jaguar XF Supercharged replaces the 4.2-liter supercharged V-8 with a detuned version of the 5.0-liter supercharged V-8 found under the hood of the XFR. When the 2010 Jaguar XF Supercharged goes on sale this October, it will bridge the gap between the lesser performance versions of the XF and the 510-horsepower XFR. Like its performance, pricing will start between the other models with a starting MSRP of ,000.
Visually, the 2010 XF Supercharged will stand apart from other XF models but the biggest new is, of course, what lies under the hood. While the 2009 XF offered a supercharged engine, both the displacement and horsepower are noticeably lower than the 2010 XF Supercharged. The previous supercharged engine for use in the non-XFR model was a 420-horsepower 4.2-liter V-8, but the 2010 XF Supercharged will use a 470-horsepower 5.0-liter V-8 that also produces 424 lb-ft of torque. Jaguar says that the 12 percent increase in power is expected to add up to 0-60 mile per hour times of just 4.9 seconds - the 2009 XFR runs from 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds.
To handle the extra performance of the more powerful engine, the 2010 XF Supercharged will come standard with upgraded vented disc brakes at all four corners, Adaptive Dynamics and Active Differential Control. Jaguar's Adaptive Dynamics allows the XF Supercharged to offer everything from a comfortable ride during normal driving to a firm ride during more aggressive driving without any driver input. The computer automatically adjusts to road and driving conditions as well as offering continuously variable wheel damping. The Active Differential Control also works automatically to deliver torque to the rear wheel with the most grip. This system works in conjunction with other vehicle systems such as traction control and anti-lock brakes to deliver optimal performance.
Compared to the XFR, the XF Supercharged will be more of a sleeper, so Jaguar kept the exterior changes to a minimum. Besides the obvious 'Supercharged' badges on the rear decklid, the XF Supercharged will also receive unique 20-inch, five triple-spoke alloy wheels, polished quadruple exhaust outlets and exclusive silver-gray painted brake calipers. Even the cabin of the XF Supercharged will offer small, but noticeable, differences between other XF models. The instrument panel and upper door panels will receive contrasting double stitching, while the headliner will be covered in what Jaguar calls Suedecloth. The cabin will also get an exclusive treatment of Rick Oak veneer. Finishing off the cabin of the 2010 Jaguar XF Supercharged, drivers will be welcomed by a 440-watt Bowers & Wilkins surround sound audio system with HD radio and a heated steering wheel.