Used test: Porsche Panamera vs Jaguar XFR
With a new Porsche Panamera imminent, does the outgoing model make a good used buy, or is Jaguar's XFR a better four-seat performance car?...
Our Verdict
Let’s face it: you’re not going to be disappointed with either of these cars. Both are full-fat, full-bodied examples of four-door, four-seat GTs, capable of thrilling and cosseting in equal measure. You’d have to be flint of heart to be unhappy driving either one.
The outgoing Porsche Panamera is a fabulous sports tourer. It’s great to drive and comfortable to ride in, and inside it manages to be classy, sporty and roomy, all at the same time. And perhaps equipped with a diesel engine, it’d beat the equivalent XF.
In this test, though, the Jaguar XF reigns supreme. The XFR has a belter of an engine, engages and entertains on all roads, rides like a dream and looks great. Granted, its interior doesn’t feel quite as well screwed-together as the Panamera’s, and it lacks the practicality of the Panamera’s hatchback. But you can forgive the XFR a few foibles when you consider it costs around two-thirds the price of its rival, like-for-like, making it a superb used buy.
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1st – Jaguar XFR
For Incredible engine; great handling; comfort; interior style; price
Against Could be roomier; some plastics feel low-rent; demands respect for its power
Verdict A truly great sports saloon – it’s time to tell the bank manager to open up and say R
Rated 4 out of 5
Find a used Jaguar XF for sale>>
2nd – Porsche Panamera
For Great handling; vast space; beautiful interior style and build
Against Still expensive to buy; feels vast in town; too much road noise
Verdict The Panamera is a great long-distance express, but convinces less as a sports tourer
Rated 4 out of 5
Find a used Porsche Panamera for sale>>
Specifications: Jaguar XFR
Engine size 5.0-litre petrol
List price when new £59,900
Price today £14,000-£50,000
Power 503bhp@6000rpm
Torque 461lb ft@2500rpm
0-60mph 4.8sec
Top speed 155mph
Fuel economy 22.5mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 292g/km
Specifications: Porsche Panamera S
Engine size 4.8-litre petrol
List price when new £72,266
Price today £25,000-£120,000
Power 394bhp
Torque 369lb ft
0-60mph 5.5sec
Top speed 177mph
Fuel economy 22.6mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 293g/km
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