Jaguar has announced a new 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine that brings more power, lower emissions and greater economy to the
XF range. The new 3.0-litre turbodiesel unit is based on the outgoing 2.7-litre engine, which suffered in the XF when compared to more powerful alternatives from BMW and Mercedes.
The new 3.0-litre V6 engine addresses those criticisms, Jaguar offering its new powerplant with a choice of outputs. The first, and biggest seller will be the 237bhp version that gives the XF a 0-60mph time of 6.7 seconds and a top speed of 149mph. The flagship version of the new engine ups power to 271bhp and delivers a thumping 443lb.ft of torque - enough to enable the XF to reach 60mph in 5.9 seconds and a 155mph maximum speed.
Choosing the higher output unit doesn't come with any penalties in emissions or economy either as both versions of the new engine deliver 42mpg on the official combined cycle and 179g/km of CO
2. The 271bhp unit will be fitted to the XF V6 Diesel S, the sporting diesel range-topper coming with 19-inch alloy wheels, a boot spoiler and discreet S badging. It will cost £36,900 when it reaches showrooms in March, the regular 3.0-litre diesel costing £3,000 less at £33,900.
Initially only offered in the XF, the new engine will almost certainly feature in a revised XJ saloon due later in the year, while the XK coupé and convertible may also see the larger turbodiesel fitted under their svelte bonnets. Don't rule out Land Rover borrowing it for its Discovery, either.
Kyle Fortune - 30 Dec 2008