On its race debut, a Jaguar XF 3.0 Diesel S, run by privateer squad, Carvell Motorsport, has won its class and finished as the leading diesel-powered vehicle at the Nurburgring 24hrs.

The XF, with Nathan Freke, Colin White and Rob Carvell at the wheel, was powered by a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine producing 296bhp and 443lb ft of torque. It completed 109 laps of the 14-mile track – overcoming changeable and often challenging weather conditions to lead its class for much of the race. By the end, the XF finished 10 laps ahead of its nearest rival.

Ian Carvell, Team Principal, commented: ‘We had very little running prior to the race, meaning our aim was to put in a solid performance and finish. To win our class and complete the race as the leading diesel is an incredible result for us – and testament to the strength and efficiency of the XF. It was quick and consistent over the 24hrs.’

Andy Whyman, Chief Programme Engineer, XF, commented: ‘The team did an incredible job – on behalf of Jaguar Cars I would like to congratulate them on a fantastic result. I’m proud that they chose an XF as the basis for their Nurburgring race effort and their faith in the car was rewarded in such spectacular style.’

The Nurburgring 24hrs attracts an estimated 250,000 spectators with 179 cars taking the start of the 2012 event. Jaguar supported the Carvell Team by donating the use of its Nurburgring Test Centre for the duration of the race and its build up. The Test Centre is home to Jaguar’s development facilities for its road car programme.