The Jaguar XF has been named Towcar of the Year 2012 by a panel of expert judges.
Run by Practical Caravan, in association with The Camping and Caravanning Club and What Car?, the awards are widely regarded as Britain's toughest test of towcar prowess.
Judged by a team of experienced road testers and towing experts, the XF 2.2D Premium Luxury was subjected to rigorous tests including hill starts on severe gradients, braking from high speeds and sudden lane changes. This was all carried out at the maximum permitted weight for both the car and the trailer.
Emerging as overall champion means the XF's tally of awards now stands at over 100.
Nigel Donnelly, Haymarket Outdoor Leisure Group's Editor in Chief - Digital, said: 'The XF challenged our preconceptions. With its superbly judged suspension, low centre of gravity and inch-perfect steering, it made the lane-change test seem easy. You could tow all day with this car and never experience a nervous moment.'
'For a saloon to cope with every item but one from our typical luggage load is impressive, and the presence of a Trailer Stability Programme earned further marks from our practicality judges.
'A brilliant towcar and a fine sports saloon. Very impressive indeed. The Jaguar is a worthy overall champion for 2012.'
Andrew Whyman, Chief Programme Engineer for the XF accepted the Award and commented: 'This honour marks a real endorsement from industry experts. The XF is a strong, versatile, capable car as shown through its overall success in the Towcar Awards. With the XF Sportbrake on sale later this year Jaguar will have even more appeal.'
The XF is available on the road from £29,950 with a tow bar fitted as an option from £910.
Jaguar XF 2.2D Premium Luxury towing technical information
| Kerbweight | 1745kg |
| 85% match | 1483kg |
| Max towing weight | 1850kg |
| Towball limit | 75kg |