Cross over to the dark side

It is also available exclusively with the 2.0 litre turbo petrol and 3.0 litre supercharged versions of Jaguar’s mid-sized sports saloon and is worth almost R40 000 as fitted to the latter.

A series of subtle but effective changes give the elegantly understated XF a slinkier demeanour and it comprises – from whiskers to tail – a striking gloss black treatment for the mesh-style grille and its surround, changes which really make the Jaguar ‘growler’ badge stand out.

Just aft of the front wheels are the carbon fibre power vents – gills which play a practical role in that they extract hot air from the engine bay. Then there are the carbon fibre mirror housings, which replace the standard, colour coded units.

The trailing edge of the boot lid now wears the most slender of spoilers, which can be left in the characteristic black weave of carbon fibre or painted to match the car’s bodywork. In addition, 3.0 litre models are fitted with a rear diffuser – a series of vertical fins which manages airflow as it departs the underside of the car, increasing rear down force and therefore stability at high speeds – in addition to the spoiler.

Adding a touch of gravitas to the ‘pounce pack’ (as it has been light-heartedly nicknamed internally) are alloy rims now refinished in a glossy dark grey (wheel diameter and tyre size remains unchanged) with a red background to the ‘growler’ centre cap. In a final nod to Jaguar’s British heritage, a set of Union Jack valve caps are fitted – evidence that being cool means not taking yourself too seriously.

XF models fitted with the (very) Limited Edition Carbon Pack purred into Jaguar showrooms nationwide in early October.