Hi everyone, I am new member on this forum and looking forward to contribute in any way I can.

Just took a delivery of 2014 XF AWD (v6) in ultimate black (metalic) with Premium, AWD, Cold Weather, Vision, and Ski Hutch Packages.
The following items were also installed: Mud Guards, Chrome Mirror covers, 3M Non-Metallic Tint 35% on side Windows and 20% on the back window.
Planning / considering to add: OEM Chrome fender vents, CF lip rear spoiler and Rear Diffuser, and maybe, chrome lower middle mesh grille kit from Mina Gallery - Your input on these accessories would be greatly appreciated.

My previous car was a MB Bluetec E350 and, after crossing out Audi A6, BMW 3GT and 535Xi off my list, I was looking at either another MB (E350 4Matic) or Jaguar XF. Both cars have a similar $MSRP with the features (AWD, spacious trunk, decent fuel economy, and comfortable ride) that I was looking for, and either one would be an excellent choice to fulfill my family's needs.
At the end of the day, the looks and the luxury features of the XF overwhelmed me enough to overlook certain compromises. The decision process was not too complicated, and can easily be compared to a situation when one gets dressed before going out - you can either chose jeans that are soft and super comfortable (Benz), or a pair that is a little bit stiffer, but looks sleek and more fashionable (XF).

First Impressions:
Benz's ergonomics work much better for my family needs (include 5.5 months old twins): wider stance that also translates into more space inside, trunk that is easy to load with large items (stroller), hooks for jackets, LATCH mechanisms for car sits that are EASILY accessible, deep door pockets, spacious compartments under each front seat, large glove box with a shelf, card slots, and a vent to direct AC or Heat air inside. The seats are also wide, comfortable and feature electronic lumbar support and headrests. The placement of controls is superior to those in XF, and materials are at least on the same level. You get more MPG from your E350. The rear view camera provides a better resolution, and the ambient lighting in MB is more pleasing to my taste. The drive is drastically quieter, and the sunroof is larger; also, it is not placed as far from the front edge as it is done in XF. Lastly, the dedicated buttons for Heated seats in Benz do not require so many steps to adjust your level of comfort - you click once and forget about it.

It was a tie for me in the following areas:
Infotainment system - while Benz's system is less convoluted and does not require touching the display, despite my fears, I have not found Jaguar's system overly confusing - at least for 2014, everything works very fast and responsive: every click instantly produces a desirable effect, including the rear camera view. Finishes inside of the cabin and of the exterior - are on the same level to my eye.
The new full LED lights on E350 are fantastic, but Jags's lights are equally impressive. Both cars get to 60m/h after 6.1 seconds and both have a solid AWD systems.

Why XF won me over? After driving the E Class for some time, I found the XF design to be more fluid and soul-pinching... I liked a choice of 19' rims with ALL weather tires, outstanding brakes, beautiful grille, longer hood, the look of fender vents, automated AC vents (of course) and the gear shifter that rises into palm the of your hand inside of the cabin. The mate wood panels looked more contemporary. The hand-stitched leather is everywhere - you would need to get an S class to get that type of quality in MB. I also liked the vision package with Blind Side Monitor (although the one in Benz produces a sound if you are about to switch a lane and there is a car in your blind spot), lights that turn into the steering corners, and the auto-beam functionality. The rear view camera features guide lines that make it very easy to park, and the windshield fluid is supplied via the blades. Also, with the AWD package, your rubber floor and trunk mats are complimentary. Lastly, it was intriguing to drive a car that you do not see every 3 minutes on the highway. Another winning factor for Jag was the fact that for the past few years, it was on the top of the chars for quality and reliability.

Wish list: wider opening and auto closure option for such a heavy trunk, LATCH mechanism that does not require ugly adapters, better MPG or quicker speeds to 60. substitution of cheap grey plastic on center console and doors with either aluminum, leather, or something that is more appropriate for such a car. Heating of steering wheel and seats needs to be simplified with dedicated buttons, and powered folding mirrors should be made available as an options on all trims. Oh... and those cap holders in the back....sorry...are pathetic at the least...and dangerous if used for any hot drink that is purchased from any franchise venue found in the rest areas.

I'll be sure to let you know of any issues or complains that I find during my ownership.

 

Congrats on the new vehicle and welcome to the forum! Curious how mud guards look on the car.

 

Some overexposed pics to show the mudguards
http://i1294.photobucket.com/albums/...psoortmdyq.jpg

http://i1294.photobucket.com/albums/...psebhxrcuj.jpg

 

Not loving the mud guards but my xf needs some serious cleaning of road tar in back of the wheels so I'm sure they'll keep the cleaning down.

 

Nice car. My 2012 XF has the mud guards and we like the look and functionality. Our cars are identical in color. We had the same issues when deciding E350 vs XF, guess who won? Our XF is not AWD but we swap winter/summer tires every fall and spring.

 

Funny, the E350 was the runner up to my XF too.

 

You need the mud guards in snow country because that's when the awd starts working. It is pretty much dormant most of the rest of the time. Occasionally it helps with traction in very wet conditions or on paint lines.

The front mud guards prevent the front wheels from throwing snow onto the front doors as you turn.

 

I just bought a 2014 XF 3.0 after buying a Mercedes E350 Luxury last Sunday and then returning it on Monday.

Luckily the AutoNation dealerships have a 3-day/150 mile return policy. The ride on it just wasn't smooth & quiet enough for me on the highway.

Anyway, I used to have an 2006 Audi A6 which I loved, loved, loved. But since the new interior redesign where the Nav screen pops-out & up and distorts the dash lines, the A6 was ruled out. Same case for the BMW. I also drove the Lexus cars, the ES was a smooth drive, but had no 60/40 split rear seat .... for me it's a must. The GS made me feel like I was 100 years old.

Love my new Jaguar ..... it's a dream !!!!!!

 

I just hate those stupid iPad style screens that stick up out of the dash.

The touch screen or "mouse" operated screen is also just a dumb idea waiting for customers to realize how dangerous and inconvenient they are so that we can go back to ergonomic switches.

The only reason for these screens is due to built in satnav for which they are somewhat useful. For all other control functions a screen is just downright dangerous.

I think the awd system in the Jaguar is the best I've ever used for on road. About 95% of the time it isn't operating. You only get awd when you need it. The rest of the time the awd Jaguar drives like a rwd Jaguar. Sweet.

 

Well that *is* possible...just an RS model away from getting there. How about sub 4.0?

 

Congrats on your purchase. Your car sounds a lot like mine. Mine came with the Aero package on it so I already had the spoiler, rear diffuser, side skirts and different front spoiler. I love the Ultimate Black Met paint on this car and I'm sure you will too.