In the complex world of mid-size, luxury sedans, there are currently three on offer that would make any buyer's purchase decision a bit more difficult. That's because you really can't go wrong.
Two all-new entrants throwing their hats into the ring are the all-new Jaguar XF and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Both vehicles are a step forward for both marques.
Hanging in there is the BMW 5-Series. Though it is undoubtedly the best 5-Series ever built, the reality is simple. It's at the end of its lifecycle. Can it still remain relevant among the all-new guys?
That said, Autocar took all three vehicles and put them in a head-to-head test. There was just one catch: All of the vehicles are diesel.
According to the legendary publication this is the order of the winners:
1. Jaguar XF
2. BMW 5-Series
3. Mercedes-Benz E-Class
The reason for this is simple. Although it waxes poetic about how gorgeous the E-Class' interior is and how it is a sumptuous vehicle, it lacks on the dynamics front. We all know how BMW has become soft in recent years, so, it's an easy win for the Jag. But, does that
really ring true? Are driving dynamics the most important thing in this class?
To me, it seems like Autocar may be missing the point of a mid-size, luxury sedan and the order should actually be reversed as comfort and a sumptuous cabin are more critical. What say you, Spies?
...But before we get into the differences made to the car’s driving experience, a pause to take in the pertinent details of the spaces in which these three cars invite you to spend such a significant portion of your working week. Our cars are within 50mm of each other on overall length and are even more closely matched on wheelbase. So predictably, they offer similar quantities of cabin space and carrying capacity. The XF is, by a whisker, the tightest car of the three for larger adults travelling in the back seats, but it’s still easily roomy enough for most. More surprising, the new E-Class isn’t the most commodious car of the trio. That distinction goes narrowly to the car that has been on sale for five years, the 5 Series, which has back seat cushions that are longer and more supportive than the E-Class’s and notably more head room in both rows...
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