I've had my Red Roadster with 6-speed, two-tone grey and Nav since May now, and here is what I think of it:

Pros

1. I love the looks of the car, and I've never gotten so many compliments while driving it. Amongst the many Z4s, Boxters, etc. on the roads, this is one unique, good looking car.

2. The car has a very tight, substantial feel to it, with no cowl shake.

3. The ride is very good considering the size of the XF.

Cons

1. I'm just gonna come out and say it - the 6-speed sucks. It is slow, inaccurate, and just not a joy to use. I've driven different manuals for the past 15 years, and I would definitely rank it near the bottom.

2. The engine performance leaves something to be desired. The relatively low horsepower combined with a low 6,000rpm red line just doesn't make it much fun. Compared to a Boxster, Z4, or the new SLK anyway. It is very smooth and flexible though.

3. The ESP is way too obtrusive, and cannot be fully turned off (only traction control can).

4. The NAV system, while not bad once programmed, is a pain in the butt to use. Have to put in a CD every time to use, and with no map being displayed, not as full featured as most others.

In summary, this is not a sports car. It just isn't fun to push it, period. Between the slow tranny, low rev limiter, aggressive ESP, it makes more sense to drop the top, slow down, relax, and enjoy the sun. That's when the car is at its best. Just don't confuse it with a cheaper alternative to the Boxster, or a faster Miata.