The XE is Jaguar’s most important model, taking on the might of the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes
C-Class and Audi A4, and giving Jag the possibility of a volume model.
Jaguar is in a far better place to do this now, with an all-new model, rather than the
Mondeo-based X-TYPE which was its last entry in the class back in 2001.
It certainly looks the part, with a very handsome design, even in the entry-level trims like
this SE model.
With compact proportions it intrinsically looks sportier than the XF, despite sharing
a close family resemblance.
We all know the 3 Series is great to drive, so Jaguar has had to pull out all the stops
here.
The XE’s chassis set-up reads like an engineer’s letter to Santa, with double wishbones up
front and integral link suspension in the rear, which should offer the ultimate level
of control over each wheel.
This means the handling feels ultra-precise and stable, but also that ride quality is
very good, even if you go for an XE with 19-inch alloy wheels.
And, on these smaller alloys, the comfort level is really impressive.
In fact along a treacherous road I drive every day, with humps, bumps, crests and narrow
bridges, the XE was so unfazed it made me laugh as my brain tried to process what just
happened.
The steering is quite quick to react and despite being fully electric it has a very fluid feeling,
which is a match for anything in the class.
More polarising is the manual gearbox, which has a positive and well-weighted feel, but
can feel like hard work in stop and start traffic and has incredibly long gearing.
As a result, we can’t help but feel the eight-speed automatic makes for a better overall
driving experience.
Engines are an all-new 2.0-litre diesel with either 161 or 178bhp, a 2.0-litre petrol with
197 or 237bhp and the 3.0-litre supercharged V6 from the F-Type with 335bhp.
This entry-level diesel will be very popular with business drivers, because it can return
74.3mpg and emits a tax-man-friendly 99g/km of CO2.
Once up to pace it feels plenty quick enough, but getting away from the lights this XE can
feel a bit ponderous, so the more powerful diesel is tempting if you don’t mind the
slight economy hit.
Petrol engines suit the XE because they are even more refined, while the V6 is the model
you need if you want a stirring soundtrack.
It hits 62mph in 5.1 seconds.
So, how does the entry-point to Jag ownership feel inside?
Well, very nice actually.
All the materials look and feel well made and there’s the familiar Jaguar steering
wheel.
It’s quite snug, and you sit low down, which gives it a sporty feel.
And, even in this diesel, there’s a really prominent power dome on the bonnet, which
adds to its sense of purpose.
The eight-inch infotainment system has JLR’s new infotainment system, with far better graphics
and more user friendly sat-nav than before.
There’s also Jaguar’s inControl Apps, including this one which allows you to access
the rear camera at any speed.
It could still be slightly snappier though, especially when typing out destinations.
This is the SE model, with cloth seats and standard Nav, DAB radio and cruise control.
You’ll need Prestige trim if you want leather, heated front seats, while Portfolio is more
luxurious still and R-Sport makes the car feel a bit more racey, while adding tech.
Up front, the electric handbrake means there’s plenty of space for cup holders, and a large
armrest and cubby with a USB port.
Our main complaint though, is the rear seats.
There’s just enough legroom back here for adults, but the C-Class and A4 are quite a
bit more spacious.
Jaguar has prioritised an almost couple-like roofline over outright practicality, because
of course, Jaguars are known for their style.
The boot isn’t the largest in class either, measuring 455 litres, but it’s still big
enough for a few large suitcases and with electric opening.
Split and fold 40:20:40 seats are an optional extra.
For all their style and sophistication, Jaguars have rarely sold in large volumes, but this
could be about to change with the Jaguar XE.
Not only does it take the fight to the 3 Series and C-Class, it’s actually more fun to drive
and has more character.
It might not quite match the straight-line performance of the BMW, but in most situations
this doesn’t really matter, and its economy figures are highly competitive.
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