#36 All-New Jaguar XE – Striking, advanced and outstanding

Jaguar wants a piece of the lucrative market for premium entry-level sport saloons. Funny enough this is not the British auto company’s first attempted at the segment. That first attempt was called the Jaguar S-Type. The Jaguar S-Type was always a bit of a throwback. Stately and posh, the S-Type's exterior design showed shades of the '60s Jaguar saloons, from which its designers copied generously.

All-New Jaguar XE 

The styling also distinguished the S-Type from other luxury saloons on the market, which more typically feature sharp edges and angled surfaces. However, it failed to impact the market and by 2008, when Jaguar was sold to Tata Motors, the car was axed from its line-up. Jaguar’s second attempt, the all-new XE, redefines the concept of the entry-level sports saloon thanks to its advanced lightweight construction, streamlined styling, luxurious interior, and outstanding ride and handling.

Jaguar S-Type 

Looks

The Jaguar XE features a new modular architecture, which enables the car to have perfect proportions. Short front overhang, longer rear overhang and dynamic rearward stance define the shape of all-new Jaguar XE.

Sleek design 

The architecture also enables the XE to feature both a low, sporty driving position and a sleek, coupe-like profile. The Jaguar XE’s strongly-sculpted bonnet creates a taut, muscular appearance. The rising waistline adds to the sense of movement, while the shape of the rear fenders takes inspiration from the F-Type Coupe.

Aggressive front 

The signature J-Blade running lights are another instantly recognisable Jaguar design element. The rear lights feature a styling theme inherited from the iconic E-Type. Jaguar has a rich history of producing stunning, aerodynamically-efficient cars. The all-new XE continues the tradition with its streamlined shape, which has the lowest drag coefficient of any Jaguar at just 0.26.

Coupe looking profile 

Performance

The all-new Jaguar XE is powered by a range of four- and six-cylinder all-aluminium petrol and diesel engines. For customers demanding ultimate performance and an exhilarating engine notes from idle right up to the redline there's the XE S, which shares its supercharged 3.0-litre V6 with the acclaimed F-Type.

Jaguar F-Type coupe 

Developing 335 hp (250 kW) and 450 Nm of torque, the V6 provides the XE S with exceptional acceleration and performance. 0 to 100 km/h takes just 4.9 seconds, and top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. The all-new Jaguar XE is also available with 2.0-litre diesel and petrol units. All petrol units are paired with to an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shift controls. The more economical diesel units are available with a highly efficient six-speed manual. All of the XE's transmissions are characterised by exceptionally smooth, quiet shifts.

XE's aluminium modular architecture 

Ride

Where most competitors use MacPherson strut front suspension, Jaguar's vehicle dynamics team insisted on the superior double wishbone configuration. The team also insisted on an Integral Link suspension, which is usually found only in larger, more expensive vehicles.

Advanced Integral Link suspension 

The front and rear suspension delivers the ideal values needed for the XE's precise handling and supple ride. The car’s handling prowess are further enhanced by the Electric Power Steering (EPAS).

Easy to grip sports steering wheel 

Interior

The all-new striking Jaguar XE's exterior styling is reflected once one steps inside. The spacious interior cocoons front seat passengers with a deep centre console which creates a cockpit-like feel.

Cockpit 

The F-Type-style dials emphasise the all-new Jaguar XE's sports saloon attributes. Front and rear seat occupants enjoy generous amounts of head and legroom. Technical fabrics, fine-grain leathers and details such as contrasting twin-needle stitching give the interior a personalised look.

Rear seats 

The choice of gloss black, textured aluminium, and contemporary wood surfaces enhance the luxurious, hand-crafted feel. Ambient lighting with up to 10 colours options adds to the sense of occasion.

InControl infotainment system 

At the heart of the interior is the InControl infotainment system, which was introduced on the Discovery Sport. The system features an eight-inch touchscreen featuring a clear, intuitive graphical interface and fast response times. The infotainment system features Bluetooth, audio streaming and USB connectivity.

Wider rear with a striking finish 

Verdict

The Jaguar XE can be regarded as the saloon version of the sportier F-Type sports car. The all-new Jaguar XE exceptionally design and engineering make it a better entry-level saloon than the S-Type. Pricing and more engine options will be announced soon.