The release of the 2017 Jaguar XE was fantastic, as Jaguar fans had been anticipating this vehicle since official photos were released in 2014. The Jaguar XE is a rather ordinary-looking sedan, as it is positioned as a direct competitor to the BMW 3 Series.
Of course, most of the exterior features, such as the grille, headlights, and wheels, are still distinctly Jaguar. However, Jaguar is not willing to compete with the BMW 3 Series solely on aesthetic grounds. Jaguar brings a variety of engines, ranging from basic to high-performance drivetrains that should be able to compete with high-performance BMWs and Mercedes.
Exterior design
As previously stated, the exterior of the 2017 Jaguar XE is more conventional in order to compete with the similarly generic-looking BMW 3 series. Of course, the cars still exude ultimate luxury, but their design isn’t groundbreaking. In addition, the appearance can be interpreted as a more subdued version of the sophisticated and distinctive Jaguar XF.
The long hood and shorter rear are the first features you’ll notice. This, combined with the Jaguar XF-inspired coupe roofline, distinguishes the car as a distinct sports sedan. The XE’s body lines range from deep and pointed to soft and curvy, which is a very well executed combination.
The narrow, aggressive-looking headlights and, of course, the large Jaguar grille distinguish the car’s front end. Underneath the grille, there will be air dams that can be quite large or quite small, depending on the trim. The high-performance Jaguar XE S will, of course, require the largest available air dams.
The XE comes standard with 17-inch wheels, with optional upgrades to 18-inch or 20-inch wheels. Furthermore, the back of the car is just as well-executed, with exceptionally wide taillights and a fine bumper, as well as one exhaust on each side.
Finally, it should be noted that the Jaguar XE will have additional trim-specific appearances.
Interior design
The interior appears to be quite sober at first glance, but don’t be fooled. The classic, clean appearance should not deceive you into thinking the interior is sober, because it is not. The clean interior is devoid of unnecessary buttons, knobs, and embellishments, making it a peaceful place to live.
There are two infotainment systems available, one basic and one more advanced. The basic InControl Touch system includes an 8-inch touch screen, while the more advanced InControl Touch Pro includes a 10.2-inch screen.
Furthermore, a wide range of fabrics and fine leathers in a variety of color palettes are available for selection. The inserts for the dash and door panels can be either gloss black aluminum or modern wood veneer. Of course, an advanced ambient lighting package with up to ten different colors is included in this magnificent interior.
The sound system can also be upgraded to a Meridian advanced sound system.
Engine specs
In Europe there are five engine options available. The first is a 163-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder E-Performance diesel engine. Then there’s another diesel engine, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel with 180 horsepower. All of the engines listed above are available with either a manual or automatic transmission, and all are rear wheel drive. Only the 180 hp turbodiesel comes with all-wheel drive. Then there are three gasoline engines. The first is a 200-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo-gas engine. The same layout engine produces 240 horsepower, and a 3.0 liter supercharged V6 engine produces 340 horsepower. All of the 2017 Jaguar XE gas engines are rear-wheel drive and have automatic transmissions.
In the United States, the 2017 Jaguar XE is powered by a 240-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Some variants, however, include a 180-horsepower turbodiesel four-cylinder engine or a 340-horsepower supercharged V6, one that is currently available in the powerful Jaguar F-Pace SVR. Each engine is mated to a sophisticated eight-speed automatic gearbox.
Tech specs
Cruise Control with Speed Limiter, Hill Launch Assist, AUX, USB, and iPod docking options are standard on the base model. All models include Bluetooth audio streaming and phone connectivity as standard.
Optional tech features include the InControl Touch Pro Pack, which includes navigation, Traffic Sign Recognition, and an Intelligent Speed Limiter. A rear view camera, parking assistance front and rear, Park Assist features that allow the car to steer itself into the smallest parking spaces, and a surround camera system are also included. Finally, there is a WiFi hotspot as well as remote access to the car’s features.
Lane Departure Warning, Emergency Brake Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Pedestrian Contact Sensing are among the standard safety features. Adaptive Cruise Control with Queue Assist, Blind Spot Monitor, and Reverse Traffic Detection are optional safety features. Overall, the ideal combination for serious semi-autonomous driving. Finally, there are Automatic High Beams for driving safely at night without blinding other drivers.
Price and sale date
The 2017 Jaguar XE is now available in Europe and the United States. Prices start at €36.800 for the base trim and rise to around €55.100 for the top trim (German prices). Prices will, of course, vary depending on the country.
In the United States, the 2017 XE 25t with the 2.0 liter gas engine starts at $34,900, the 20d with the turbodiesel engine starts at $36,400, and the 35t with the more powerful V6 engine starts at $41,700.