Jaguar XF vs Audi A6 – executive class war

The attractive Jaguar XF is a formidable rival for any car in its class, but how does it stack up against the venerable Audi A6? We’re comparing the two side-by-side to help you make your mind up.

Put either the Jaguar XF or the Audi A6 in our car configurator to see how much carwow could help you save. To see some different choices, check out our list of the 10 best executive cars.

Jaguar XF vs Audi A6 styling

Although the changes to this second-generation XF aren’t massive, they’re just enough to make it into a real stunner. The same brutish grille and slim headlights feature but are more chiselled than the previous model. A swoopy roofline also lends it a sporting character.

The A6 has had a mid-cycle update, but you’d have to be a bit of an Audi anorak to see the differences immediately. Nevertheless, it’s a good-looking car in a functional, no-fuss Germanic way, which means it won’t turn many heads as it drives past.

Jaguar XF vs Audi A6 interior

The XF’s interior is a incremental improvement over its predecessor. There’s plenty of space and comfort on offer here, and it’s positively brimming with all the latest hi-tech features. The latest infotainment system promises to be much easier to use than the outgoing one.

Audi is known for fantastic interiors and the A6 is no exception. There’s as much room inside as some bigger models, the quality of materials used is beyond reproach, along with the build quality. The only issue some may find is it’s too visually similar to the last model when the competition has seemingly moved on.

Jaguar XF vs Audi A6 driving

The XF improves on the driving experience of the old model so it’s hard to imagine how it could have been made much better. The steering feel, agility and cornering stability have all been subtly improved, making the car feel more accurate and responsive than ever. The overall ride is comfortable on the motorway, but firms up during more vigorous driving.

The A6 isn’t an unpleasant drive by any measure, but it falls short of its rival in almost every respect. The steering is less responsive than the XF and the overall feeling is fairly numb by comparison. The A6 is comfortable making it a great car for motorway cruising, but not one for having fun in on windy roads.

Jaguar XF vs Audi A6 engines

The new 178hp, four-cylinder 2.0-litre Ingenium diesel engine will account for the majority of new XF sales. If that’s not to your liking though, there’s a more efficient 161hp version as well. Other engines include the same 375hp 3.0-litre supercharged V6 petrol found in the F-Type, and 296hp version of the manufacturer’s familiar 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel.

The Audi A6 offers a choice of 2.0 and 3.0-litre diesels, but there’s no petrol option unless you move up to the performance-orientated S6. The diesel engines are pretty fabulous though, so you’d have to be a real driving enthusiast to bemoan the lack of a petrol variant.

Jaguar XF vs Audi A6 practicality

There isn’t a great deal more room in the XF than rivals such as the BMW 5 Series, but enough to make it noticeable. The Jaguar gives you 540 litres of boot space with a tyre repair kit, dropping to 505 litres if you opt for a space-saver spare wheel. Its sloping roofline means it’s not quite as easy to get into and out of as the Audi.

The A6 brings 530 litres of boot space to the party, which is fairly average for this segment. The Audi is probably easier to get in and out of than the Jag, especially for the driver, and there’s more than enough room to meet most people’s expectations.

Jaguar XF vs Audi A6 verdict

These are both excellent cars, so choosing between them is tricky. There’s nothing genuinely bad about the A6 – it’s a great car in its own right. The second-generation Jaguar XF, however, is a truly fantastic car.

When comparing cars of this quality it can often come down to little more than personal preference. The Audi is marginally more practical and possibly slightly better on the motorway but, if you prefer a more engaging driving experience, the Jaguar should be your choice.

Save money on your Jaguar XF or Audi A6

Put either the Jaguar XF or the Audi A6 in our car configurator to see how much carwow could help you save. For more options, head over to our deals page or, if you still need help picking your next car, check out our car chooser.