Jaguar or SUV?

I’m retired, my mileage is only 5000-6000 per year and am considering buying a Jaguar XF. I wondered if you would advise the diesel or petrol version, as I vaguely remember you saying (ages ago) that diesel wasn’t best for low mileage. I’ve also acquired five grandchildren recently and, what with the teeth-loosening potholes round my way and the occasional need for 4WD, I’ve even considered an automatic 4WD Nissan Qashqai which can convert to seven seats.

Asked on 12 August 2012 by JS. via email

Answered by Honest John
For low mileage, 3.0-litre V6 petrol XFs are much better and much cheaper, assuming you can find one because not many were sold. The centre rear and rearmost seats in a Qashqai are extremely uncomfortable. The KIA Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe are much better, but are diesel only. If you want a petrol automatic seven-seater SUV, consider a Toyota Verso 1.8i Valvematic Multidrive S or the much quicker Ford S-Max 2.0i Ecoboost Powershift.
Similar questions
I was thinking of buying the Skoda Kodiaq 4 wheel drive, but it is only available as a diesel. I was trying to get away from diesel, especially as my annual mileage is under 10,000. Any thoughts?
My wife and I have a 2015 Ford Kuga, which we are looking to replace it in the not too distant future. We enjoy the ride height and the practicalities of four wheel drive and we do not want an electric...
I'm considering a nearly new, top spec Nissan Qashqai and I'm unsure whether to opt for a petrol or diesel model. The car will be mostly used for commuting. My journey is 20 miles from home to office,...
Related models
Strong blend of comfort and performance. Fun to drive. Standard equipment is high on all models.
Wonderful and bespoke feeling interior. Amazingly quiet and refined. More economical 2.2 diesel from 2011. Navigation not fitted as standard on most models.
Strong diesels including impressive 2.2-litre. Comes with seven seats. New six-speed automatic. More premium feel than previous Sorento. Great value for money.
Very comfortable front seats with good ride. Feels well built. Strong Renault sourced dCi diesels. Elevated driving position and good visibility.
Upright seats. Practical interior. Touch screen system with reversing camera and £500 optional sat nav.
Sleek looks and good quality interior. Refined and quiet on the move. Seven seats. Well equipped as standard. Excellent 2.2 CRDi diesel.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer