Jaguar reveals redesigned 2012 XF at NYIAS

Though the car built in 2008 under the Ford aegis had its plusses, a first look at this model shows the whole concept has been refined into something fresh and exciting.

The grill has been made more visually striking and aerodynamic though elongated headlamps and an enhancement of the center hood ridge.

Beneath the lights, the lower air intakes have chrome elements – giving a toothy smile to the half-lidded, mildly menacing eyes of the South American cat. It seems to eye you in a somewhat disinterested manner, knowing full well it could easily catch you – should it decide to enter into the chase.

Inside the XF interior has been completely redesigned with a new steering wheel, gauges, ambient lighting, materials, and color treatments. Even the seats have been reworked with deeper bolsters.

Auxiliary technology has been updated such as a new, more responsive touchscreen, new 400-watt audio system with 30GB of storage standard or you might select the optional 600-watt or a1,200-watt system (a 17-speaker unit from Bowers & Wilkins with a massive subwoofer).

The 2012 XF comes packing a 5.0 liter V8 that pounds out 385 horsepower and will do zero to 60 in 5.5 seconds. It produces 380 lb.-ft. of torque and delivers 16-mpg city and 23 highway.

Standard features include heated (front) leather seats, shift paddles, metallic paint, 18-inch wheels, iPod interface, satellite radio and navigation.

It comes with a warranty including scheduled maintenance and standard wear and tear coverage for 5 years or 50,000 miles.

The 2012 Jaguar XF will be available for order soon at a base price of about $53K and, in our book; that’s a lot of sport and style for just a little money.