LUCKY NUMBER 8

We see how the figure '8' is this big cat's lucky number - The supercharged v8 under its bonnet, that is.

The brand Jaguar typically evokes the charm of an old-world gentleman's cigar club, which includes the sweet scent of aged whiskey and vintage cracked leather seats. As evocative as this image may be to the brand's league of extraordinary fans, the XF is Jaguar's latest offering that looks set to spring into the lives of young professionals across the globe.

The form factor of the XF moves away from the sleek feline silhouettes that we've come to associate with the XJ-series of limousines. However, don't be misled into believing the new XF is nothing more than a big pussy-cat, since the new model seamlessly integrates coupe-like styling into a four-door sedan shape. Bulging muscles and subtly aggressive contours create a powerful road presence, yet the XF retains enough of the legendary Jaguar DNA to project an unmistakable identity.

Although you're more likely to spot the regular V6 on the streets of Singapore, there's also a snarling supercharged V8 variant in the kitty litter. Apart from the larger sports alloy rims (20-inches of the XF SV8 – probably the only one to offer this as standard in this segment) and the application of a 'SV8' badge on its trunk, there's little to differentiate the ferocious big brother from the entry level model.

The cabin is well-appointed and more than worthy of the label 'executive sport sedan', which puts it in the same league as offerings from the usual suspects: Audi, BMW, Lexus and Mercedes-Benz.

In contrast to the aura of nostalgia that is often associated with the brand’s older models, the XF’s cabin exudes an urban chic with brushed aluminium accents that should see it appealing to younger owners.

The front seats are well padded and supportive for long trips. At each start-up, the air-conditioning vents even execute an 'opening ceremony' before starting their cooling duties, as if to commemorate the arrival of the driver. The soft blue illumination (dubbed ‘Cool Blue’ phosphor – or halo – lighting) creates an ambience that can vary from cosy to discotheque!

A touch-screen monitor can be used to control all the car’s features, which can be turned off once the settings are engaged. Thanks to its 2900mm wheelbase, interior accommodation is comfortable and will easily seat up to five adults in comfort, which gives more established rivals such as the 5 Series, E-Class, A6 and GS300 a run for their money.

Before you grimace or cringe, the ‘can’-like object on the transmission tunnel isn't an iDrive derivative, but rather the transmission shifter, which rises silently into the palm of one’s hand as the car is started.