My 2012 XF had to go in the shop to fix a window issue and I got a brand new 2013 XF 3.0 V6 for the day. It was interesting to compare, but I can honestly say I am very happy I bought the 2012 in Nov instead of waiting for the 2013s. I really disliked the auto engine shutdown at stop lights. It wasn't smooth and you could tell when the engine went on and off. I felt like the transmission was hunting for the right gear and the power was more in the upper band.

My opinion only, but wanted to share. I did like the Meridian sound system and wish I had a better stereo than my base model.

I think anyone coming from the V8 might see a dramatic difference. Anyone who doesn't have a point of reference may not notice or care.

 

You can switch off the start/stop but honestly you get used to it very quickly. Rent a car in Europe and it will have start/stop, even the diesels.

As for the supercharged V6, it's a peach.

 

I think if I had it more than a day I would have tried to turn in off. It might have just been the one I had, but it seemed rough when it would stop and start.

I didn't get to get on the V6 on as much, but it didn't seem to have much power. I think it's personal preference more than anything else, so not saying its bad, just not what I like.

I'd be curious what real world mileage would be and how much you really save.

 

The start/stop is switched on automatically every time you start the car. There's a convenient dashboard button next to the lock/unlock buttons allowing you o just switch it off if you wish. Also, start/stop is deactivated if weather is too cold or battery power is too low.

The supercharged V6 is roughly comparable to the 4.2 I own. Remember that it is a tiny 3.0 until the supercharger can start blowing. That's 60% of the former 5.0 and it does show for a split second when you bury the gas pedal. Once the boost arrives it is comparable to the outgoing V8 unless you buy the 200 lb heavier awd version.

 

funny, i was watching a review of the 3.0 XJ last night...and the guy was saying how the 3.0L is a disappointment for the XJ....doesnt suit the car at all....especially compared to the V8. He even compared the 2 exhaust notes....and the V6 sounded like a neutered cat.

 

They should have definitely kept the little engines in the XF and the F type.

 

For some markets there was a 3.0 normally aspirated V6 from the X Type and S Type fitted to the XF and the XJ. This 60 degree V6 bears no relation to the new 90 degree V6.