Jaguar release new XF images and engine details

Jaguar has released the first official images of the restyled 2012 XF as well as details of its all-new 2.2 litre diesel engine.

The spy-style shots of the still partly camouflaged body reveal a face lifted front-end, which eschews the traditional spherical headlights in favour of a sleeker design similar to the XJ. The rear also appears to have been modified, with the bumper gaining an enhanced shape.

The new 2.2 litre diesel engine, which Jaguar say will feature in an upcoming XF production car, is set to debut at the New York Auto Show later this month. Jaguar claim it will be the most efficient engine ever produced by the company. The figures – after being converted from the out-dated measurement systems Jaguar still use – amount to this; 140 kW of power, 450Nm of torque, 5.4 litres/100km on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of 149 g/km.

Jaguar put the improved efficiency down to the new Intelligent Start-Stop system which they estimate reduces consumption by between five and seven per cent. The Intelligent system reduces the delay found in conventional start-stop systems when restarting the engine thanks to a new crankshaft sensor and fuel rail pressure holding system. This allows the engine to restore drive from as little as 400 rpm.

Specifications and an estimated on-sale date for the new engine are expected to be announced at the New York Auto Show.