New for 2017

The XE is an all-new model.

An ambitious new Jaguar 

Jaguar has ambitious plans to push into new segments. It recently launched its first-ever SUV, the F-PACE, and is now taking on the lucrative compact luxury sedan segment dominated by the BMW 3 Series. The brand's challenger to the Bavarian bruiser is called the XE, and it looks like quite a contender. Boasting an aluminum platform, an impressive lineup of powertrains, and a sporty character, the XE brings everything that’s great about Jaguar to a new segment.

Performance

A true Jaguar should be engaging to drive, and the XE doesn’t disappoint. Its lineup of powertrains is diverse, from a four-cylinder diesel to a supercharged gasoline V6. The XE is also light on its feet, thanks to an aluminum-intensive body that uses RC 5754, an alloy made predominantly from recycled material. That helps keep weight down, which improves performance as well as efficiency.

XE 2.5t models feature a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline unit. It produces 240 horsepower and 251 pound-feet of torque, which is sent to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission (used in all XE models). Jaguar says the XE 2.5t will do 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, and reach a top speed of 155 mph. The EPA rates fuel economy at 24 mpg combined (21 mpg city, 30 mpg highway).*

For buyers looking for maximum fuel efficiency, the XE 20d uses a 2.0-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine. It boasts 180 hp and 318 lb-ft of torque, with standard rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. Both versions do 0 to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds and top out at 120 mph, according to Jaguar. EPA-rated fuel economy is 36 mpg combined (32 mpg city, 42 mpg highway)* with rear-wheel drive, and 34 mpg combined (30 mpg city, 40 mpg highway)* with all-wheel drive.

If the XE 20d emphasizes efficiency, the XE 35t emphasizes performance. It uses a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 shared with multiple Jaguar and Land Rover models. It produces 340 hp and 332 lb-ft, and is available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. V6 models will do 0 to 60 mph in 5.0 seconds (all-wheel drive, 5.1 seconds with rear-wheel drive), and reach a top speed of 155 mph. EPA rated fuel economy is 24 mpg combined (21 mpg city, 30 mpg highway)* with rear-wheel drive, and 23 mph combined (20 mpg city, 29 mpg highway)* with all-wheel drive.

Features

The 2017 Jaguar XE is a four-door, five-seat compact luxury sedan. In addition to the three engine options, buyers get to choose from four trim levels. Pricing starts at $34,900.**

The base XE is available with either of the four-cylinder engines—gasoline or diesel. Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, a Jaguar Sound System with HD Radio™, Jaguar InControl™ Protect & Remote telematics services, an electric tilt-and-slide power moonroof, and more.

The XE Premium builds on the base model, incorporating its standard features and adding more, including the option for the supercharged V6 engine. Other notable standard features on the XE Premium include 18-inch wheels (on V6 models), auto-dimming and power-folding exterior mirrors, driver seat and exterior mirror memory, 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat, and 11-speaker Meridian® audio system.

The XE Prestige adds available 19-inch wheels, Taurus leather seats, heated front seats and leather steering wheel, Jaguar InControl™ infotainment system with app suite, four-way front seat power lumbar support, and power steering-column adjust. The XE R-Sport gets a more aggressive attitude, with a model-specific body kit and sport seats, as well as adaptive Xenon headlights with LED signature daytime running lights, as well as a host of driver-assistance features.

Design

The 2017 Jaguar XE conveys a greater sense of emotion than its competition. It rides on a modular platform shared with the larger XF sedan and the F-PACE, and it borrows styling from those models as well.

With its Jaguar-signature grille and slim headlights, the XE’s face should be instantly recognizable to XF or F-PACE owners. The familial front end blends well with the sculpted hood and the decidedly cab-rearward profile. The rear end takes some cues from the F-TYPE sports car, particularly in the design of the taillights.

Like the exterior, the interior has a sportier feel than most other small luxury sedans. A deep center console creates a cockpit-like feel for the front passengers. The driver gets crisp analog gauges and a small digital display, with the obligatory infotainment touchscreen in the center console. The optional leather seats have gorgeous twin-needle stitching, and wood and aluminum trim is available for further dress up the cabin.

Technology features include the latest version of the Jaguar InControl™ infotainment system, which supports Bluetooth® streaming audio and USB connectivity, and features its own app suite. A Jaguar remote app is also available, allowing drivers to do things like lock and unlock the doors and adjust climate control from a smartphone.

Safety

Standard safety equipment on the 2017 Jaguar XE includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, All Surface Progress Control, and a full complement of airbags. Optional features include lane keep assist, Driver Condition Monitoring, blind spot monitoring with Closing Vehicle Sensing and Reverse Traffic Protection, and autonomous emergency braking.

Verdict

The 2017 Jaguar XE brings a new attitude to the compact luxury-sedan segment.

For more information, or to be among the first to experience the all-new Jaguar XE, contact us online or visit 3Birds Template at 505 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516. 

*EPA estimates. Actual mileage may vary.

**Price shown is Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price. Excludes $995 destination/handling charge, tax, title, license, and retailer fees, all due at signing, and optional equipment. Retailer price, terms and vehicle availability may vary. See your local authorized Jaguar Retailer for details.

Image Credit: Jaguar