The panel of women responsible for putting the XF and its competitors through their paces were evecars.com editor Alex Jenner-Fust, Eve magazine's Rachael Ashley and Jessica Gibson, Autocar's Vicky Parrott and Eve reader Sarah Thane. Each appraised the cars using five key criteria: Comfort (driving position, space in the rear), Practicality (getting in and out, positioning a child seat), Space (boot volume and ease of loading), Parking and of course the Drive.

Commenting on the award, Alex Jenner-Fust said: "For a car that will take you seamlessly from school gates to boardroom, look no further. The Jaguar XF combines cutting-edge technology with a classic British feel. Driving it is a real pleasure, whether you're on the school run or cruising to the south of France. The stereo system is easy to use, while the seats are so comfortable you won't want to get out."

This is the second major award the XF has received this week, having earlier been named the Auto Express 'Car of the Year' 2008. This latest accolade brings the XF's tally of awards to 17 since its global debut in Frankfurt last year. Other awards include the prestigious 'Car of the Year' title from evecars.com's sister publication What Car?.

Geoff Cousins, UK Managing Director of Jaguar Cars, said: "The female market is incredibly important to Jaguar and it is great to see that the XF really appeals to women with its combination of style and practicality."