JAGUAR'S new XF has for the first time claimed top prize - the highly respected Car of the Year award - at the 2008 What Car? awards in London. The XF also took top place in the Best Executive Car category, ahead of the BMW 5 Series and the Mercedes CLS.

Steve Fowler, group editor of What Car?, said: "For us, the XF goes straight in there with the very best cars from Jaguar's past. And given that the car market today is more competitive than it's ever been, it's fair to say the XF is the best car Jaguar has ever built. The XF really does have it all - a sensational exterior and dramatic interior combined with a drive that will delight and pamper in equal measure. On top of that, it stacks up as a sensible buying and owning proposition, too."

Mike O'Driscoll, managing director of Jaguar Cars, said: "Jaguar is creating a new generation of cars that started with the XK, and now continues with the all-new XF - a four-door, five passenger car that has the heart of a sports car and the looks of a grand tourer. Like the XK, XF is visually striking and thrilling to drive.

"We're very pleased with the reaction the car has received, and our customer order bank is growing fast. We're grateful to What Car? for this wonderful award."

XF has already received a host of significant awards.

Priced from £33,900 for the 2.7 litre diesel and 3.0 petrol V6 to £54,900 for the supercharged 4.2 SV8, the XF comes as standard with a generous specification featuring a host of innovative, industry-leading equipment. Highlights include the optional top-of-the-range 440W Bowers & Wilkins speaker system delivering a powerful and vivid performance.