My experience with the XPL is pretty limited but I have used 4 or 5 in various builds. In a large reflector (35mm), designed for an XML (8mm) sized die, the result was pretty decent beam profile. A nice mix of throw Vs spill. Excellent hot spot, well defined. With a 25mm P60 XPG sized reflector (5mm die) the XPL is more like a XML in beam profile BUT only at lower drive levels. Previously I had not been impressed enough with the XPL to use it in a traditional build and assumed that a XPG was more than enough for use with common Nanjg drivers but on my last P60 build with a XPL I decided to use the IS Nanjg 105c and I can say that being pused at 3 amps made all the difference. On high the XPL really comes to life. So much so that I have some of the FT V10 drivers on the way to try the XPL at 4 and 5 amps. Should be interesting if nothing else.
But when it comes to modifying a surefire head with the TIR lens its tough to beat a XPL. An XML does very well too but with the tall unique shaped XPL lens they have an edge on any other LED in my build experience. However you mileage may vary and its just my opinion.