Volvo S90 vs Jaguar XF vs Ford Mondeo Vignale 2017 review | Head2head

TL;DR

Volvo S90 wins for comfort, style, and value.

Transcript

large Posh saloons are the state of symbol of the corporate car park and for those who don't want to follow the German crowd there are some interesting choices from Britain Sweden and America but wish should to choose between the Jaguar XF the new Volvo S90 or the Ford Mondo vigal wait a minute that noise reminds me of a taxi being pulled up outsid... Read More

Key Insights

• The Volvo S90 stands out for its stylish design and comfort, making it a strong contender in the premium saloon category.
• Jaguar XF offers a sporty driving experience with its rear-wheel drive, but lacks the quietness of the Volvo.
• Ford Mondeo Vignale provides a premium feel with additional services but may not justify its higher price tag compared to a standard Mondeo.
• Volvo S90's minimalist interior design is complemented by a user-friendly infotainment system, although Apple CarPlay is an additional cost.
• Jaguar XF is praised for its classy design, though some materials inside feel flimsy, and the standard infotainment system is not recommended.
• The Ford Mondeo Vignale offers practical features and space, but its narrower body limits rear passenger comfort compared to the Volvo and Jaguar.
• In terms of boot capacity, the Ford Mondeo is the most practical, although the Volvo S90 offers sufficient space for most needs.
• The Volvo S90 prioritizes comfort over sportiness, making it ideal for those seeking a relaxed driving experience.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the starting prices for these cars?

The starting prices for the diesel automatic versions are £31,200 for the Ford Mondeo Vignale, £32,555 for the Volvo S90 D4, and £34,050 for the Jaguar XF. However, buyers can save money through dealer discounts, with potential savings of £4,288 on the Jaguar, £2,458 on the Ford, and £3,129 on the Volvo.

Q: How does the Volvo S90's interior compare to the others?

The Volvo S90's interior is minimalist and well-designed, resembling high-quality furniture. It features a digital driver's display and a tablet-like infotainment system that is intuitive and easy to use. Although Apple CarPlay is an optional extra, the standard stereo system is superior to those in the Jaguar and Ford.

Q: What are the driving characteristics of the Jaguar XF?

The Jaguar XF is rear-wheel drive, providing a sporty and engaging driving experience. It is comfortable, although not as quiet as the Volvo. The engine and gearbox are smooth, but the lower-powered 2.0-liter diesel can be slow to respond. Upgrading to a higher-powered diesel is recommended for better performance.

Q: How does the Ford Mondeo Vignale justify its premium price?

The Ford Mondeo Vignale offers styling upgrades, a unique grille, chrome trim, and additional customer service perks like a 24-hour helpline, special lounges, and free car washes. However, the interior still has some cheap materials, and the driving experience is similar to a standard Mondeo, making it hard to justify the premium price.

Q: Which car offers the most rear passenger space?

The Volvo S90 offers the most rear passenger space, with thin-backed front seats providing ample legroom. It is spacious and comfortable for long journeys, although the Jaguar XF is also improved in this regard. The Ford Mondeo Vignale is slightly less roomy due to its sloping roofline and narrower body.

Q: What are the boot capacities of these cars?

The Ford Mondeo Vignale has a boot capacity of 516 liters, making it the most practical among the three. The Volvo S90 offers 500 liters, and the Jaguar XF has the largest capacity at 540 liters, but its narrow design makes it harder to load, reducing its practicality.

Q: How does the Volvo S90 perform on the road?

The Volvo S90 is designed for comfort, with relaxing seats and smooth suspension. It is quiet at speed but lacks the sportiness of other saloons. The D4 engine offers adequate performance, with the D5 providing more power. Overall, it is pleasant to drive, focusing on comfort rather than fun.

Q: Which car is deemed the best overall in the review?

The Volvo S90 is deemed the best overall, thanks to its stylish design, comfort, spaciousness, and good value for a premium badge. It offers a relaxed driving experience and is well-equipped, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a premium saloon that is not German.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Volvo S90, Jaguar XF, and Ford Mondeo Vignale compete in the premium saloon market, offering alternatives to German brands. Each car has unique strengths, with the Volvo excelling in comfort and style.

• While the Jaguar XF provides a sporty drive, the Volvo S90 impresses with its stylish design and comfortable ride, winning the overall comparison.

• The Ford Mondeo Vignale offers additional luxury services but struggles to justify its premium price against the more polished Volvo and Jaguar.