Skip 1st Gear? Then why did you buy a 6 speed? Look, the power to weight ratio on your XF is key. By yourself on flat level ground, go ahead and burn your clutch a little. But if you have another body in the car with you, no matter how curvy and hot, you double the work and lugg the engine. 1st to 2nd isn't smooth in a XF because the 229 lbs of torque quickly overides the 3,300 lbs of car. Just burp 1st to get going and snap it to 2nd. Then just go.

franc rauscher in St Louis
2006 Saphire Blue Roadster; WITH A STICK!