About the Jaguar XFR (2009-2015):

Storming supercharged Jaguar XFR V8 sports saloon is peach to drive.

The Jaguar XFR packs a 503bhp 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine that gives it crushing performance. Thanks to adaptive dampers this extra pace and amazing handling doesn’t come at the expense of comfort.

Beware though, traction can be limited in the wet, while bills for tyres, servicing, fuel and tax are all very hefty indeed. And if 503bhp isn’t quite enough for you, there’s an XFR-S available that’s powered by the 542bhp version of the V8 that normally sees service in the XKR-S. The ride remains impressive, but it demands even more concentration from the driver, and costs new £79,995.

There’s no doubt about it: the XFR is a riot on the road. That 503bhp 5.0-litre supercharged V8 has enormous perfomance, rocketing the car from 0-60mph in just 4.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 155mph. Overtaking potential is devasting thanks to deep reserves of torque, while the off-beat V8 soundtrack will have you racing to redline as often as you can. The eight-speed auto could be a bit smoother, but with paddle shifters it’s easy to tap into the performance.

The handling is sublime, with sharp turn-in and agile dynamics. It feels a much smaller car than it actually is. Traction is limited in the wet though – certainly compared to Audi quattro models. The XFR-S takes all of these sensations up a notch, with steering derived from the F-Type and more aggressive settings for the suspension and rear diff. The more powerful engine is very potent, but has no problem spinning up the rear wheels in the wet or dry.