DAF XG+ 530 review

Both the MX-11 and MX-13 PACCAR engines can be paired with the DAF XG+. The 10.8-litre MX-11 option offers 449hp and maximum torque of 2,350Nm. Go for the MX-13 engine and three power choices are available: 428hp, 483hp and 530hp. Depending on which power output you choose, the 12.9-litre engine will deliver maximum torque of either 2,300, 2,500 or 2,700Nm. The DAF XG+ has also been electrified, so operators can select between three to five battery packs to provide a range of up to 500km on a single charge. Power output is fairly similar with 370hp and 480hp versions capable of 2400Nm of torque.

A 12-speed automated TraXon transmission is standard fitment with a variety of configurable options to tailor its functionality to the work. For example, manoeuvring mode is the default setup but urge-to-move can be specified which lets the vehicle crawl while manoeuvring by releasing the brake pedal. Further customisations can be made from the factory through the automated gearbox software selection which allows you to tailor the software to applications such as standard transport, heavy haulage, liquid transport and off-road. An engine idle shutdown function turns the engine off after five minutes. Engine braking can be controlled at three different levels to bring the vehicle’s speed down more or less rapidly depending on the scenario.

While the XG and XG+ have the same interior layout, the XG+ has a taller roof for extra standing room inside the cab. Both versions can be had with double bunks but the XG+ is better suited for a two-man crew since there’s a little bit more space. Extensive custom options are available including swiveling chairs, armrests, lower passenger door window, curtains, blinds and auxiliary heaters.

Throughout the length of the bottom bunk, it measures 80cm wide, matching a comfortable mattress with a good amount of space to sleep. Operators can specify DAF’s Relax Bed which can raise and lower sections of the bed to allow drivers to sit upright or reclined on the bed. Hooks feature at both ends of the bed along with a pocket in the middle for newspapers or books next to a control panel for things like the lights and mirror cameras. Three overhead lockers at the front and drawers underneath the bunk offer plenty of storage space inside the cab as well as external lockers. The nearside of the dash has a large flat surface on top and a pull out desk expands this further for working or eating. Shelves below this also provide a decent amount of space to keep laptops, phones, books or devices needed throughout the day. Two cupholders are also easily accessible beneath the climate control panel.

In place of traditional mirrors, cameras now come as standard. DAF’s version is called a Digital Vision System but it’s essentially the same as the setup found on the vast majority of modern trucks. Unlike other mirror camera systems though, DAF replaces the class V and class VI mirrors with an additional monitor to show a 285 degree view of the front nearside corner. The view for this mirror is provided from a camera attached on the nearside corner at the base of the windscreen. Direct vision is also improved thanks to a large curved windscreen which drops down below the dash to offer a better view directly in front of the truck. Driver assistance safety features include lane departure warning, driver monitoring and side and turn assist. Hill hold control can be toggled on and off and important functions can be operated via a row of shortcut buttons below the central infotainment screen. A reversing camera shows on this screen to help with trailer hitching. While EuroNCAP hasn’t tested the DAF XG and XG+, it has evaluated the XF, another long haul artic option in DAF’s lineup. The 2025 model year achieved three out of a possible five stars made up of an 85% safe driving rating, 80% post crash safety and 35% crash avoidance score.

Gone are the days when driving a truck was all feet and arms moving around. Now, the focus is driving with your hands. The XG+ has a satisfying predictive and adaptive cruise control which anticipates the topography of a road and starts speeding up or slowing down to either climb or descend a hill, for example. For the vast majority of driving on A roads and motorways, it effortlessly handles speed and maintains your chosen gap from the vehicle in front. Like similar systems, it lets you choose overrun and underrun limits. With cruise control engaged, power delivery feels smooth and three levels of engine braking allow you to shave off speed when approaching junctions or traffic. Simple controls on the steering wheel make it easy to engage cruise control or set the speed limiter.

Compared to previous iterations of the DAF range, New Generation models are up to 10% more fuel efficient depending on the application they’re used in. Part of this is down to powertrain improvements as well as aerodynamic tweaks to reduce drag. The biggest impact on fuel economy stems from how the vehicle is driven, making the most of things like predictive cruise control, EcoRoll and engine braking. The driver is also given a live rating on the dashboard which starts at 70% at the beginning of every drive. This score fluctuates depending on how the driver is operating the vehicle, encouraging drivers to employ more fuel efficient practices and gamifying economy.

DAF’s dealer network covers 130 locations around the UK, supported by 55 authorised testing facilities. DAF MultiSupport is the company’s repair and maintenance package and DAFaid is its roadside assistance service. For fleets that travel into Europe, DAF International Truck Service (ITS) is the DAFaid equivalent for trucks on the continent. Driveline and vehicle warranties can be extended up to three years with an R&M package.

The DAF XG+ is the pinnacle of the manufacturer’s range and its spacious cab is a very enjoyable place to spend time. It strikes the right balance of comfort and practicality to make it a useful work companion and room for the night. Since the XG+ is the largest cab, it’s ideal for two drivers or a driver that regularly spends a lot of time away from home. DAF has a proven reputation of reliability and support across the UK, so operators will be confident in the longevity of the truck. For good reason, DAF remains the most popular brand in the UK and the XG+ shows off the best of its offering.