Joule,
Listen to 62thunderbird, if you go XF don't settle for less than a limited.
Base models are for purists who just want to drive hard and fast and comfort and gadgets are not neccesary.

SRT's have what you need, auto-shift and are a blast. You will have to let up on the gas once in a while so your cell phone signal can catch up. A minor annoyance.

Roadster with a stick