Jaguar XF Scores Four Stars in Euro NCAP Safety Tests
Jaguar’s XF saloon received a four-star rating in Euro NCAP crash tests, trailing key rivals like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class that have achieved five stars.
Jaguar’s XF saloon has received a four-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash tests, placing it behind direct competitors such as the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class, both of which have previously secured five-star ratings. The result is notable given the XF’s premium positioning and the expectation that executive models in this class will meet the highest safety benchmarks.
Jaguar XF’s Euro NCAP performance in detail
The Euro NCAP assessment highlighted several areas where the XF lagged behind its German rivals. For adult occupant protection, the Jaguar XF scored 78 percent, compared to the BMW 5 Series’ 95 percent. Child occupant protection was rated at 65 percent for the XF, while the BMW managed 83 percent. Pedestrian protection was a particular weak spot for Jaguar, with a 43 percent rating against the BMW’s 78 percent. Safety assist systems, including electronic stability control and other active features, scored 71 percent for the XF, while the BMW achieved a perfect 100 percent.
| Category | Jaguar XF | BMW 5 Series |
|---|---|---|
| Adult occupant | 78% | 95% |
| Child occupant | 65% | 83% |
| Pedestrian | 43% | 78% |
| Safety assist | 71% | 100% |
| A-pillar movement | 12 mm | 1 mm |
| Whiplash protection | Marginal | Good |
Jaguar’s response and industry expectations
A spokesperson for Jaguar said the company is taking the Euro NCAP result seriously and is reviewing the safety findings to determine how improvements can be incorporated into future models. The four-star rating does not indicate that the XF is unsafe, but it is a setback in a segment where five-star ratings are now commonplace, even among smaller and less expensive vehicles. Euro NCAP’s testing has become a de facto standard for buyers and fleet operators assessing vehicle safety, especially in the executive saloon market.
For buyers, the XF’s result may influence purchasing decisions, particularly for those prioritising safety scores. Fleet operators, who often require five-star vehicles for their lists, may also take note. Jaguar’s commitment to review the findings suggests that future updates or generations of the XF could address the shortfalls identified in these tests.
The XF’s four-star outcome stands out in a year when ten cars achieved five stars in Euro NCAP’s 2011 safety tests. For a comparison of the year’s top performers, see Ten Cars Achieve Five Stars in 2011 Euro NCAP Safety Tests.
