Jaguar XF Sportbrake performance credentials are very good, with all its engines able to complete the benchmark sprint in 10 seconds or quicker.

There are two engines available from launch. Both powertrains are diesel, a 2.2-litre engine and a 3.0-litre V6 diesel.

The 2.2-litre diesel

The 2.2-litre comes with two outputs, 161bhp and 197bhp. While the 3.0-litre V6 diesel has also got two power outputs – there’s a choice of 237bhp or you can opt for the flagship S. It has a power output of 271bhp.

On the move the 197bhp 2.2-litre diesel engine is good if a little noisy. At idle there is a diesel clatter and this is also present between 1,500 and 2,000 rpm. The 161bhp 2.2-litre diesel unit is a good engine and will get from zero to 60mph in 10 seconds while it has a top speed of 134mph. Performance is impressive. The 197bhp version of the 2.2-litre diesel XF Sportbrake mated to an eight-speed semi-automatic gearbox will complete the benchmark sprint in 8.2 seconds and it has a top speed of 134mph.

The 3.0-litre diesel

The 3.0-litre V6 diesel with 237bhp will complete the zero to 60mph sprint in 6.7 seconds and has a top speed of 149mph. If it’s refinement, smoothness and outright pace you’re looking for, then the 3.0-litre V6 diesel S should be the pick of the bunch. It can complete the benchmark sprint in 6.1 seconds and it has an electronically limited top speed of 155mph.

Eight-speed automatic gearbox

All versions of the XF Sportbrake are mated to an eight-speed semi-automatic gearbox. You can either leave it in drive to do its thing or you can manually select gear via the steering-wheel mounted paddles.

Parkers recommends

We’d suggest you go for the 272bhp 3.0-litre diesel S model thanks to its impressive refinement and outright performance capabilities.

The Sportbrake has an identical wheelbase to the XF saloon. This means that it’s fun to drive. The ride is a little firm for some, but the steering is direct and there is very little lean when cornering enthusiastically. The Adaptive Dynamics System is very clever too. It continuously monitors the suspension and can adjust damping rates up to 500 times a second to keep things comfortable and composed.

This system is available on all versions of the XF Sportbrake. Jaguar has also added a load-compensating, self-levelling rear suspension to the XF Sportbrake, so, even when the boot is full, whether it’s transporting a fridge or wardrobe from the local DIY warehouse, the car is able to maintain its equilibrium. This system is so good that you’ll forget that have a load in the rear.