Car manufacturers are constantly looking for new and exciting ways to launch their latest models.
Jaguar has risen to this challenge and come up with a unique way of unveiling its all-new XF executive saloon, in a thrilling high-wire stunt over the River Thames.
Expert British stunt man Jim Dowdall, veteran of Hollywood movies including Bond, Bourne and Indiana Jones, drove the all-new Jaguar XF 240 metres across a high-wire to demonstrate the new XF’s lightweight aluminium-intensive construction and set a new world record in the process.
The new XF, which is set to make its official public debut at next week’s New York motor show, will look to rival the likes of Audi, Mercedes and BMW in the executive saloon market. Jaguar say “the all new XF brings an unrivalled blend of refinement, fuel economy, dynamics and design to the business car segment.”
Two 2.0-litre Ingenium diesel engines are available in 163PS/380Nm and 180PS/430Nm form and are offered with specially-optimised six-speed manual- and eight-speed automatic transmissions. In 163PS manual form, the all-new XF delivers 104g/km CO2 and is the lightest, most efficient non-hybrid diesel model in the segment – 80kg lighter than its closest competitor.
All other engines are matched to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbo diesel benefits from a host of advanced technologies which boost efficiency and refinement further, and raise output to 300PS and a remarkable 700Nm of torque. Also available is the renowned 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol engine with 380PS/450Nm torque.
The light, stiff body structure is also fundamental to the all-new XF’s handling. Jaguar say the cars sophisticated double wishbone and Integral Link suspension – combined with near-50:50 weight distribution – delivers the ideal balance between agility, comfort and refinement.
The all-new aluminium-intensive Jaguar XF will be manufactured at Jaguar Land Rover’s Castle Bromwich Plant alongside the all-aluminium F-TYPE and XJ and is expected to reach showrooms this Autumn.