Ian Thurgood, joint managing director of world famous preserves manufacturer Wilkin & Sons, toasts the recently-launched Jaguar XF 2.7 as a tasty new variety...

Tell us about yourself and what you doI am joint managing director of Wilkin & Sons, manufacturer of the famous Tiptree preserves. I have lived in the village of Tiptree for about 30 years, which is also the home of the Wilkin family. We've farmed here for nearly 300 years and my first job was hoeing strawberry plants and driving a tractor. The first Tiptree conserves were made here in 1885 and to this day we still specialise in fruit growing on the Tiptree estates. The company holds royal warrants for both preserves and marmalades and almost four out of every ten jars that leave the factory are sold overseas.

How did you learn to drive?When I was ten I used to drive diggers around our back garden. I have always enjoyed motoring and now that I have responsibility for European sales I often drive in Germany and France, which is fun. I just love cars

Tell us about some of the cars you've ownedI've probably owned about 40 cars in 40 years, because I never used to keep cars for more than three months. I once bought an Opel Kadett and I remember waking up the next morning and thinking, 'This is awful, why did you do that?' My first Jaguar was an emotional purchase, as was the second. I loved it - even though it only did 8mpg. One of my favourites was a Ford Capri GL with a matt black bonnet, but at the moment I am driving a Porsche 911S, which is an absolute indulgence.

What were your first impressions of the Jaguar XF?I was surprised at how modern this car looks, as I've always thought of Jaguars as traditional. It's got some exquisite touches such as the little Jaguar emblems on the heater vents, or the chrome Jaguar legend across the boot lid. It's very sophisticated, but definitely a Jaguar.

How does the Jaguar XF drive?I am enjoying driving the XF, as it's very comfortable but engaging. The steering wheel feels good, acceleration is impressive for a diesel.

So, how do you rate the Jaguar XF?I felt immediately at home in the XF and it has a great sense of occasion for me. It's just how a modern Jaguar should be.

FACTS AT A GLANCE

Car Jaguar XF 2.7 V6 Diesel Premium LuxuryPrice as tested £41,495 on the road (from £37,500)Insurance group 17E [est.]CO2 emissions Maximum 199 g/kmPerformance Max Speed 143 mph; 0-60 mph 7.7 secsFuel consumption 37.6 mpg (Combined)Standard safety features Front & Side Curtain Airbags; Front Seat Whiplash Reduction System; Front & Rear Seat Belt Pre-tensioners; Pedestrian Contact Sensing; Cornering Brake Control; ISOFIX Rear Child Seat Mounting Points; ABS etc.Will it fit in your garage? Length: 4961; Width: 2053; Height: 1460 (mm)How Tony rated this car They've cracked it! 8 out of 10 At the wheelIan Thurgood was talking to motoring editor Adrian Foster. Contact Adrian at motoring@essexlifemag.co.uk. Our thanks to Grange Brentwood for the loan of the test vehicle. For information visit www.grange.co.uk or www.tiptree.com