Yes, the dreaded derv has been banished but in some respects I actually quite liked it. Economy being one......
....but it's the 516 lb ft of 'stump pulling' torque that makes the car so effortlessly fast. Car is quiet and refined when cruising.
Pretty much says it all.
I sense that your resilience is weakening, and with good reason.
The diesel economy means that you can do monster miles on a steady run without hitting your wallet too hard. It means that you can take a drive out with the family without constantly watching the fuel gauge and worrying about the fuel cost. All of them are plenty quick enough but the big engines are surprisingly quick.
Our current 3.0d has a 0-60mph time of 4.7 seconds and I've been told that they will pull constantly all the way up to the limiter (70mph) on the A40 after a late-shift.... but I can't confirm that personally.
Although not great by any means compared to the two litre diesels of any chosen manufacturer, it will still return 50mpg on a run so not too shabby. The mid range grunt makes it quicker mid range than its petrol equivalent (even the M version ) so what's not to like.
Luxurious, fast and economical, it is possible after all.
( Unless you're TB, who manages to defy economy in an economical vehicle )
Where it can't compete is in the sound sector, that lovely sound the 5.0 XFR makes when it takes off might just make it worth it.