Jaguar XE

Second Look: 2017 Jaguar XE

June 9, 2017 by admin 7 Comments

British automaker Jaguar supplied a 2017 XE for my review recently, providing me with a second opportunity to examine this all-new compact luxury sedan up close and personal. As before, I remain intrigued by this entry-level model, the smallest and least costly vehicle offered by Jaguar.

2017 Jaguar XE

The 2017 XE is available in four grades: XE (Base) ($34,900), XE Premium ($37,500), XE Prestige ($41,400), and XE R-Sport ($46,500). Rear-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is available. A 2.0-liter turbo gas engine is standard; a 2.0-liter turbo diesel can also be had as can a supercharged V6. That’s a varying selection of engines for the compact range; each one comes paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The luxury compact segment is overflowing with choices. Besides the Jaguar XE, you’ll find the Acura TLX, Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Cadillac ATS, Infiniti Q50, Lincoln MKZ, Lexus IS, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and the Volvo S60. A Genesis G70 is set to arrive in 2018.

As the new model on the block, the XE has its work cut out or it. That’s especially apparent as customers shift their purchase decisions away from cars to SUVs. For example, to the new Jaguar F-PACE.

2017 Jaguar XE

Jaguar XE Key Attributes

Because I reviewed this model last September (see Luxury Fervor: 2017 Jaguar XE), I’m employing a different strategy here. Specifically, I’ve taken a deep dive into this model’s top attributes, sharing those findings as follows:

1. Performance as you like it.

With three engine choices available, shoppers will find that performance levels vary based on their preferred choice. Horsepower comes in at 180 (diesel), 247 (turbo gas), and 340 (supercharged V6) and that’s quite a spread. But things get very interesting when comparing torque, which is your pulling and passing power. You’ll find 318 (diesel), 269 (turbo gas), and 332 (supercharged V6).

Where the diesel is slow off the mark, once the turbo spools up, the power numbers close within striking distance of the largest engine, easily surpassing the turbo gas engine. This truth underscores just how torquey diesel engines are.

2017 Jaguar XE

2. Stellar fuel economy is within reach.

You enjoy decent fuel economy with the standard gasoline engine, delivering 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. Oddly, those same figures also apply to the supercharged V6 — all that upfront power and you still have an efficient engine.

The turbo-diesel, however, is the prize as it delivers 32/42 mpg city/highway for the rear-wheel drive model and 30/40 for all-wheel drive. So, no matter the engine choice, you’ll enjoy efficiencies, especially on the highway.

3. Technology second to none.

You won’t find Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility in any Jaguar product. Instead, connectivity comes by way of this automaker’s proprietary system.

Jaguar’s InControl telematics system is modern, clean and efficient. The standard eight-inch screen gives way to a 10.2-inch screen in upper trims — both deliver a colorful display, limited glare, and minimal backlighting interference.

2017 Jaguar XE

The system supports Bluetooth and audio streaming, and offers USB connectivity. WiFi is optional and a host of supporting apps are available.

When it comes to audio systems, you’ll find a Jaguar sound system with HD Radio and six speakers. An 11-speaker Meridian system is available. Opt for the technology package and you’ll acquire the large screen, WiFi, a CD/DVD player, and a 17-speaker Meridian audio system.

4. Exemplary safety features are present.

Typically, new cars are crash tested by both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The insurance companies back the IIHS; the NHTSA is under the authority of the US Department of Transportation.

Neither entity, however, has tested the Jaguar XE yet. Likely, testing is pending, but absent those results the XE offers maximum protection. To wit, you’ll find “all surface progress control” on every model, technology that operates as low-speed cruise control. Specifically, when traveling at speeds of 2 to 19 mph, the system activates under slippery conditions to control braking and traction.

Other safety features available include adaptive cruise control, closing vehicle sensing, blind spot monitoring, semi-automated parallel and perpendicular parking, and reverse traffic detection. These features are available as you travel further up the trim level grade.

2017 Jaguar XE

5. Luxury meets practicality.

Entry-level luxury models typically offer a paucity of upscale features or just enough to set them apart from mainstream models. After all, if you’re paying about $35,000 as your threshold for entry, you can’t expect much. Right?

Well, the Jaguar XE provides standard features befitting the brand, including alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, and chrome touches. Inside, you’ll find power front seats, full power accessories, dual-zone climate control, and an overhead console. Certainly, soft touch materials are apparent, while you’ll also find a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Trim level upgrades pull out all the stops and bring in such features as ambient lighting, a power adjustable steering wheel, heated front seats, front seat lumbar support, an imitation leather-wrapped instrument panel, and upgraded leather. Some models, such as the R-Sport, add exterior upgrades, including a rear spoiler.

2017 Jaguar XE

On the Road

Jaguar packs a lot of power into a small engine. If you prefer gasoline over diesel, the inline four-cylinder engine should be sufficient. Off-the-mark acceleration is steady. Once the turbo kicks in, you’ll enjoy a full burst of power. But prepare yourself for the expected lag — the Jaguar turbo seems slightly slower in spooling up than some competitors. If you’re a fan of Jaguar’s superchargers, you’ll feel the difference immediately. Superchargers deliver full power up front, fading late — turbos kick in later, then deliver full power.

The eight-speed automatic matches well with the turbo, shifting seamlessly with no gear hunting detected. Paddle shifters are at the ready for customers who prefer an added measure of control. Unfortunately, there is no manual gearbox to be had.

The XE’s strong suit may be how well it behaves on your favorite back roads. Bred for spirited driving, this cat delivers taut steering and responsive handling. Its lightweight frame (3,320 pounds for the test model) frees the body of excess weight that encumbers some models. Further, the standard rear-wheel drive platform should please the typical drive enthusiast. Choose all-wheel drive if you want an extra measure of handling confidence.

Parting Thoughts

Unchanged are my initial impressions of the Jaguar XE — that second look only confirmed what I had experienced earlier. One additional consideration is worth noting: buyers looking for a five-passenger sedan may find the limited rear legroom disappointing. That said, the midsize XF is the better choice here.

The XE brings it to the German makes, giving Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz much concern in a highly competitive (and shrinking) segment. It outdoes its Japanese competitors, while delivering a strong alternative to the Cadillac ATS. In all, if the Jaguar XE is your entry-level luxury sedan of choice, you’ll have the satisfaction of driving a lithe feline.

2017 Jaguar XE 25t

Jaguar	XE
Segment	compact luxury sedan
Base Sticker Price	$35,725 (all-wheel drive)
Price as Tested (Estimate)	$40,000
Standard Engine	2.0-liter, turbo gasoline I4
Horsepower	247 @ 5,500 RPM
Torque (lb.-ft.)	269 @ 5,500 RPM
Transmission	Eight-speed automatic
Available Engine	2.0-liter, turbo diesel I4
Horsepower	180 @ 4,000 RPM
Torque (lb.-ft.)	318 @ 1,750 to 2,500 RPM
Transmission	Eight-speed automatic
Seating	2+3
Curb Weight (pounds)	3,320 to 3,795 pounds
Wheelbase (inches)	111.6
Length (inches)	183.9
Width (inches)	72.8 (including mirrors)
Height (inches)	56.1
Head room (f;r — inches)	NR; NR
Leg room (f;r — inches)	NR; NR
Shoulder room (f;r — inches)	NR; NR
Hip room (f;r — inches)	NR; NR
Storage (cubic feet)	15.9
Gross vehicle weight (pounds)	4,707
Towing (pounds)	NR
Payload (pounds)	NR
Fuel	regular
Fuel Tank (gallons)	19
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway)	21/30 (2.0L Gas); 32/42 (2.0L Diesel)
Manufacturing Plant	Solihull, West Midlands UK

2017 Jaguar XE

See Also — The 2017 Jaguar XE by the Numbers

Luxury Fervor: 2017 Jaguar XE

September 21, 2016 by admin 4 Comments

If you don’t yet have Jaguar on your luxury vehicle shopping list yet, it is time to include it. Once considered an afterthought in the luxury segment, this distinctly British brand has made a name for itself. A string of new models, including the Jaguar XE, have effectively turned this marque around.

A 2017 Jaguar XE was a recent weekly driver, a compact luxury sedan with none other than the BMW 3 Series in its crosshairs. Certainly, Jaguar has fielded a small sedan in the past, but that X-Type model simply wasn’t up to the competition. That’s all changed now as the new XE follows a carefully laid-out path taken by more recently updated or new models, including the midsize XF sedan, the F-Type sports car, as well as the first-ever Jaguar F-Pace SUV.

Jaguar offers the 2017 XE in four trims: XE (Base) ($34,900), XE Premium ($37,500), XE Prestige ($41,400), and XE R-Sport ($46,500). Rear-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is available. You’ll have a choice of a pair of forced-induction gasoline engines and one turbo-diesel. Yes, Jaguar’s XE lineup is broad, the better to reach affluent customers.

Exterior Highlights

Reduce the midsize XF to compact proportions and you have the XE. Or something very close to that.

This model features Jaguar’s recognizable gaping maw and now familiar sleek headlamp assemblies. The lower grille opening is offset by a pair of very large openings accented by fog lamps. Distinctive creasing across the hood gives this model a look that is at once powerful and elegant.

A high belt line and a sweeping roof line mark the XE’s profile. Vent ports are present and Jaguar offers a variety of wheel choices, including 20-inch forged alloy wheels. The haunch-like rear quarter includes a trunk lip spoiler, oversized wraparound combination lights, and dual-exhaust tips.

Interior Highlights

Most people correctly laud Jaguar for its clean, upscale interiors. Seating five, you’ll find very comfortable seats up front and a supportive bench seat in the rear. The back seat offers room for three, is best used for two, but if you’re tall you’ll want the front passenger seat as legroom is confining. But that’s typical for vehicles in this class, which is why taking a look at the larger Jaguar XF makes sense if you place a premium on rear seat space.

The deep center console gives the XE a cockpit feel, effectively swaddling the front passengers. You’ll find fine-grain leathers and such details as contrasting twin-needle stitching for a custom-made look. Jaguar also provides a selection of gloss black, textured aluminum, and contemporary wood veneers, along with ambient lighting in up to 10 colors.

Standard equipment goes beyond the expected power accessories to include door sill finishers, zoned climate control and a power-operated moonroof. XE Premium models bring in a folding 40-20-40 rear bench seat along with driver and front passenger seat memory. The XE Prestige offers Taurus leather seats with contrast stitching, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. A power-adjusted steering column is included as well.

The top-of-the-line R-Sport features a distinctive interior. Here, you’ll find a branded soft grain leather steering wheel, etched aluminum veneer, and four exclusive trims. Standalone options available include a heated windshield.

You’ll also find a sizable trunk measuring 16.06 cubic feet. That’s large for this class. In all but the base model, you can lower the all or part of the 60-40 bench seat to expand your cargo carrying space. Also present is a pass-through to the trunk.

Key Technology Features

Numerous technology features accompany the 2017 XE, including an available head-up display featuring speed and navigation instructions.

The heart and soul of the Jaguar XE, however, is the InControl Touch system with its eight-inch capacitive touchscreen. Choose the Pro version and you’ll access a 10.2-inch screen. The system is clear and easy to use and supports audio streaming, Bluetooth, and USB connectivity. A suite of apps allows for easy integration of smartphones as well as remote access. WiFi is available.

At the same time, the Jaguar suite doesn’t permit Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility. Instead, you’ll have to use Jaguar’s proprietary system.

Model Safety Overview

As of publication, crash testing has yet to be conducted on the 2017 XE. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) will eventually test and score this model.

That said, the Jaguar XE has multiple safety or driver assist features that go well beyond the full complement of airbags, traction and stability control, and antilock brakes. All models are equipped with “all surface progress control” what works as low-speed cruise control (between 2 and 19 mph). It is designed to control braking and traction in slippery conditions.

You’ll also find that the XE offers available adaptive cruise control, closing vehicle sensing, blind spot monitoring, semi-automated parallel and perpendicular parking, and reverse traffic detection. The higher up the trim, the more likely you’ll find these features included.

On the Road

By offering three engine choices, Jaguar immediately signaled it is serious about serving the segment. All three engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Sorry, no manual transmission is offered.

A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine is standard, making 240 horsepower and 251 pound-feet of torque. Jaguar assigns a 25t nomenclature to this engine, which is standard on the XE, XE Premium, and XE Prestige. This engine is found on rear-wheel drive models only and makes an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

Also available is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder diesel making 180 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Carrying a 20d designation, this engine is also a mileage maker, coming in at 32 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway (30/40 with AWD).

Available in all trims except for the base model is a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 engine (35t) making 340 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. Powerful as well as efficient, rear-wheel drive versions make an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway (20/29 with AWD).

Our test model was powered by the supercharged engine and equipped with all-wheel drive. In particular, this combination will definitely appeal to people requiring optimum performance, although we would have been satisfied with rear-wheel drive only.

The supercharged V6 offers excellent off-the-start acceleration and superior passing power. The ZF-supplied eight-speed automatic is well matched, with sufficiently spaced gears and paddle shifters for drivers preferring to control shifts.

From a full stop, you’ll reach 60 mph in five seconds. The compact Jaguar is lithe, athletic and poised, with ride quality equalling the best models in this class.

Benefiting this model enormously is its lightweight aluminum architecture — in particular the double wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension working in tandem with the electric steering to deliver driving dynamics you’ll quickly cherish.

JaguarDrive Control adds a layer of driving dynamics allowing you to select normal, eco, dynamic or rain/ice/snow modes — steering inputs and throttle mapping are affected with dynamic mode, adding weight to the steering.

Parting Thoughts

It didn’t take long for me to realize the Jaguar XE has successfully cracked the top-tier amongst compact sedans. Most definitely it makes for a strong competitor to the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class as well as the Cadillac ATS. Furthermore, it is head and shoulders above the Lexus IS and Infiniti Q50, and easily a much better vehicle than the Acura ILX, Volvo S60, and the Lincoln MKZ.

Without multiple vehicles to test, we can’t offer comment on the other engine choices, although the performance numbers on the gas engine are quite good, while the diesel offers exceptional fuel economy. With Audi currently not offering diesels, Jaguar can target those customers too.

In all, we think any model above the base XE trim supplies a well-equipped entry-level sedan for under $40,000, an important price point in this segment. And for those who prefer an extra measure of utility, the all-new F-PACE SUV provides yet another reason for luxury shoppers to consider the Jaguar brand.

See Also — On the Road With a 2017 Volvo XC60

US Auto Trends: First Half 2016

July 7, 2016 by admin 3 Comments

Is the US automotive market at its peak?

Jaguar F-PACE — Jaguar’s first-ever SUV is pacing the brand.

The dust has settled following June’s US auto sales manufacturer reports, giving analysts ample fodder to examine the current auto trends. As you probably already know, light truck and utility vehicle sales are up, while car sales are down.

Yet, there are some models bucking the trend and there is a very good chance the perennial car category leading Toyota Camry may lose its top spot this year as car shoppers pursue the all-new Honda Civic. The Ford F-150 continues to dominate truck sales, while the Toyota RAV4 is now the best-selling utility vehicle in America.

Let’s examine the top auto trends for the first half of 2016:

1. Chevrolet’s controversial F-150 attack ad isn’t working. Late this spring, Chevrolet launched its most aggressive attack ad against the Ford F-150 we’ve seen in years. Advertisements show both the F-150 and Silverado trucks lined side-by-side as rocks and later a toolbox were dropped in each bed. The aluminum-based F-150 suffered serious damage, while the steel-based Silverado held up. In June, F-Series sales rose by 28.6 percent while Silverado sales fell 3.7 percent. Through the first half of the year, the F-Series is enjoying double-digit growth. Not so for the Silverado, as sales are off 0.8 percent for the year. Consumers appear to be ignoring the Chevrolet ad.

Cadillac XT5.

Two new models are lifting the Cadillac brand.

2. New Cadillac models are on sale, reviving the brand. Cadillac has a pair of new models to show for it: the XT5 crossover and the CT6 sedan. The Cadillac XT5 is the replacement for the SRX, while the CT6 is the all-new flagship for GM’s luxury brand. As expected, sales of the XT5 are running strong and have already helped the Cadillac brand reverse course. Brand sales are still down through the first half of 2016 (9.5 percent), but the new models may go far in helping Cadillac regain lost market share.

3. Buy a car, save a great deal of money. Car sales continue to fall, dropping 11 percent in June alone. Shoppers have made it clear they prefer utility vehicles and pickup trucks over coupes, sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons. Unless you are absolutely set on a certain body style, you may be overlooking some tremendous deals on cars. Even before incentives are considered, the smallest utility vehicles start around $20,000 and that’s about $5,000 more than the smallest cars. But that’s only part of the story — many models such as the Ford Fiesta offer cash back in addition to 0 percent financing. Choose a slow selling model such as the Hyundai Elantra, a compact sedan, and you may qualify for $2,750 in discounts for a car priced from $17,250.

4. Jaguar and Land Rover are a force to be reckoned with. The UK’s twin Jaguar and Land Rover brands are on fire, lighting up sales and at a pace far ahead of the competition. Combined sales are up 18.7 percent through June with the Jaguar brand up 40.3 percent alone. Two new models, the XE sedan, and the first-ever SUV — the F-PACE — are unleashing the cat. Land Rover has long outsold Jaguar by 4-to-1 in the US, but the greater momentum is with this traditional car brand. Don’t be surprised if the F-PACE is followed quickly by a second SUV, slotting in above the current one. Other manufacturers need to take notice: the two quintessential British brands are winning new customers and often at their expense.

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG Coupe

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG Coupe.

5. Mercedes-Benz leads the luxury pack. Among luxury makes, three brands are constantly vying for top honors: BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz. All three have taken the top crown in recent years, but this year Mercedes-Benz is pulling away from the pack. Mercedes’ sales are flat through June 2016 as it has sold just 39 more cars to date than last year. The luxury segment is getting slapped as car shoppers turn away from cars and to utility vehicles. Still, sales are slipping over last year. BMW sales are down 9 percent and the brand has sold nearly 25,000 fewer vehicles to date than Mercedes-Benz. Lexus is also down (4.6 percent), but with just 2,000 fewer sales than BMW. Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Audi, Infiniti, and Volvo are among the luxury brands gaining market share.

6. We’re seeing signs of plateauing. Automakers love to paint rosy pictures and offer upbeat predictions. They have to, otherwise shareholders will take them to task. After bottoming out in 2009, US auto sales have risen year over year since. It isn’t common to see sales rise constantly from one year to the next for more than five years. Sales are up 1.1 percent through June, so we’re on pace for our seventh consecutive year of increases. Still, there are troubling signs out there as brands such as Mazda, Toyota, Chevrolet, and Mini are down year to date. Toyota may be the most surprising of the four as it adjusts to decreased demand for its bread-and-butter Camry as well as for its hybrids. Are we seeing the first signs of a recession in this election year? You need to go back eight years to September 2008 for when markets began to slide.

2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.

The Toyota RAV4 is now the best-selling utility vehicle in the US.

The Race to Year’s End

To finish in positive territory this year, automakers must count on two things: 1), the financial markets remaining stable, and 2), consumer interest staying strong. If the first becomes unstable, it will immediately affect the second. At the same time, consumers may delay their purchases if they even get a whiff of potential instability. This year’s election cycle is an important one and if the candidates stoke fear or instability, the markets will undoubtedly react.

Recent News — Are Pull-Ahead Lease Offers a Good Deal?

First three photos copyright the respective manufacturers; Toyota RAV4 photo copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

The 2017 Jaguar XE by the Numbers

May 4, 2016 by admin 2 Comments

The Jaguar XE is the latest model in this big cat’s repertoire.

Not since Jaguar retired the X-TYPE in 2009 has it had a compact sedan to take on the BMW 3 Series and like luxury models. That earlier vehicle was outperformed in an ultra-competitive segment and simply didn’t have the kind of rear-wheel drive architecture prized by most buyers. The 2017 Jaguar XE changes that, a rear-wheel drive model available with all-wheel drive. To that end, we’ll take a look at the important “numbers” defining this model.

2 — Two represents the Roots-type twin vortex supercharger mounted to the V of the engine. It is joined by a water-cooled intercooler designed to reduce the temperature of the intake air in an effort to improve power and efficiency. The supercharger is controlled by a Bosch engine management software package. The V-6 engine gets a supercharger; the two four-cylinder engines are boosted by turbochargers.

3 — Jaguar has three engine choices for the XE, including a late-arriving turbo-diesel. A supercharged 3.0-liter, V-6 is the performance leader, making 340 horsepower and 332 foot-pounds of torque. Next up is a turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine making 240 horsepower and 251 foot-pounds of torque. If you can wait a bit longer, the 2.0-liter, turbo-diesel “four” may be worth your while — it makes 180 horsepower and 318 foot-pounds of torque. All three engines are paired with a ZF 8-speed automatic.

5 — Five or 5.0 is the top 0-to-60 mph time for this sedan. You’ll reach that threshold if you have an all-wheel drive XE powered by the supercharged V-6. If you prefer rear-wheel drive, no sweat: you’ll get to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. Five, by the way, is the number of people who can ride in the Jaguar XE.

101 — Automakers are busy finding ways to reduce their impact on the environment through various design and light-weighting schemes. Jaguar is doing its part by incorporating 101 pounds of recycled materials, including plastics and renewable materials. Depending on the model chosen, the 2017 XE weighs anywhere from 3,320 to 3,795 pounds.

304 — Jaguar has never made an engine lighter than the upcoming gasoline four-cylinder, weighing just 304 pounds. Lift the hood of the XE and you’ll see it oriented longitudinally and paired with the same ZF 8-speed automatic now common to the Jaguar brand. Further weight savings were gained by riveting and bonding.

825 — Two Meridian audio system packages are available. Most buyers will probably be satisfied with the 380-watt, 11-speaker audio system, tailored to the interior’s acoustics. However, audiophiles may be drawn to the 825-watt, 14-speak system equipped with stereo and surround sound processors.

$34,900 — Affording a luxury sedan typically means starting off at a high price point and going from there. Jaguar pegs the base XE at $34,900, what delivers a rear-wheel drive 25t edition powered by a turbocharged, four-cylinder gasoline engine. Choose the 20d and you’ll pay only $1,500 extra for the turbo-diesel. The top-of-the-line 35t is powered by the supercharged V-6 engine and retails from $41,700. R-Spec models will drive the final cost up to about $50,000. Jaguar’s aggressive pricing may attract mainstream midsize sedan owners, giving customers a logical entry-point to the brand.

60,000 — All 2016 and later Jaguars are now covered by a 5-year or 60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty. That’s up from the previous 4-year, 50,000-mile warranty offered in 2015 and earlier years. For the same length, Jaguar offers complimentary scheduled maintenance and ‘round the clock roadside assistance.

Jaguar XE: Beyond the Numbers

Besides the hard numbers, Jaguar is intent on informing prospective customers that the XE is a well-equipped and artistically designed sedan. Interiors are dressed in fine-grain leathers with twin-needle stitching. Gloss black, textured aluminum, and contemporary wood veneers are also present. Customers will have a choice of 10 colors.

On the technology front, the Jaguar XE comes with InControl Touch, with an 8-inch capacitive touchscreen. The system supports Bluetooth, audio streaming and USB connectivity. Laser head-up display (HUD) technology is available as is an autonomous emergency braking system utilizing stereo camera technology. Lastly, adaptive cruise control, close vehicle sensing, blind spot monitoring, parking assist, and reverse traffic detection are also available.

If a larger sedan is to your liking, Jaguar has the midsize XF and the full-size XJ. There’s also the delicious F-TYPE sports car and if an SUV is your thing, the first-ever Jaguar F-PACE is yet another model to consider.

See Also — The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze by the Numbers

Specs Announced for US-Bound Jaguar XE

April 30, 2015 by admin Leave a Comment

Jaguar XE Range — Sample colors for the 2017 Jaguar XE.

Jaguar Land Rover may not command the market presence of a Mercedes-Benz, a BMW or an Audi in the US, but the British automaker is doing something about that. Fresh on the heels of very public reveals of its medium-sized Jaguar XF in England and in New York, the company has released additional details about the Jaguar XE, a model that will take on the BMW 3 Series and other compact luxury sedans.

The 2017 Jaguar XE is still about a year away from its US arrival, but that isn’t stopping Jaguar from releasing details pertinent to the model. We already knew one important matter about this sedan — that it has an aluminum monocoque chassis, representing a weight saving measure that no other four-door in this segment offers.

Beyond that, the details of the Jaguar XE have been scant. Until now.

Jaguar XE Duo

This week, Jaguar announced the two XE model names — 20d and 35t. Both models will be offered in Premium, Prestige and R-Sport trim levels and will be available in rear- and all-wheel drive.

The XE 35t name seems a bit confusing as the nomenclature does not correspond to the engine’s size — 3.0 liters — nor to the type of forced induction — supercharged. Perhaps calling it the XE 30s would have suggested something else in the minds of Jaguar administrators, but the naming convention is a curious one.

The second model name is spot on — XE 20d. This model receives Jaguar’s new 2.0-liter Ingenium diesel engine, making 180 horsepower. That’s far less power than the 340-horsepower V-6, but it underscores Jaguar’s decision to match what its German competitors provide and to give customer’s a worthy fuel-efficient variant.

Ingenium Turbodiesel Engine

Jaguar claims that the Ingenium is its most efficient diesel ever, providing a peerless combination of performance, fuel efficiency and fine tuning. It is a clean sheet metal design, one with stiff cylinder blocks and twin balancer shafts, designed to provide low levels of vibration.

The aluminum-intensive engine was fully designed in-house and will be assembled at the company’s engine manufacturing center in the UK’s West Midlands. Importantly, this diesel line will have a high torque output and also meet stringent Euro 6 requirements. Indeed, that threshold corresponds with the EPA’s own draconian criterion.

ZF-Supplied Transmissions

The Jaguar XE 35t should appeal to motoring enthusiasts who prize top performance. Besides its 340-hp rating, this model has an output of 332 foot-pounds of torque. Further, a ZF-supplied 8-speed automatic transmission is standard and operated by Jaguar’s rotary dial or with the steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. Notably, Jaguar estimates a 0-to-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds.

The XE 20s will also benefit from a ZF-supplied 8-speed automatic transmission. Besides the 180-hp rating, the diesel will produce a robust 318 foot-pounds of torque.

Long Wheelbase and a Capacious Cabin

The XE’s spacious cabin will seat up to five. This model is based on a 111.6-inch wheelbase and is 183.9 inches long, 72.8 inches wide and 55.7 inches tall. However, its curb weight has not yet been released.

Jaguar calls the XE’s all-new “All Surface Process Control” or ASPC structure a “low-speed cruise control” system. Specifically, this system is active at speeds between 2 mph and 19 mph — ASPC is designed to control braking and the powertrain to ensure superlative traction in treacherous road conditions.

Safety Technology Features

XE shoppers will have the option of ordering a laser heads-up display (HUD), what provides the driver with intelligence, including speed and navigation details. The automaker is also employing stereo camera technology in a bid to gauge speed and the distance of objects ahead.

In doing so, the Jaguar XE will employ full braking in a bid to avoid a collision. In addition, the stereo camera will procure traffic sign data and work in tandem with the lane departure system.

Other safety technologies available include adaptive cruise control, closing vehicle sensing, blind spot monitoring, semi-automated parallel and perpendicular parking, and reverse traffic detection.

Meridian Audio Systems

The XE will also reflect Jaguar’s latest generation infotainment system. The new InControl Touch system has an eight-inch capacitive touchscreen featuring a clear, intuitive interface and fast response times. It will also support USB connectivity and Bluetooth audio streaming.

As for audio systems, a pair of Meridian audio systems will be offered. Jaguar rightly claims that Meridian offers exquisite sound reproduction, something this writer has verified in previous tests of Jaguar marque vehicles.

The standard 11-speaker audio system is a 380-watt powerhouse. Alternatively, some a 825-watt, 14-speaker upgrade equipped with stereo and surround sound processors may cinch the deal for audiophile-loving drivers.

As for pricing and other product details, we will have to wait for that information to be revealed, details that will be made known closer to the XE’s US launch early next year.

See Also — Luxury Fervor: 2017 Jaguar XE

Jaguar XE photo courtesy of Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC.

Jaguar XE: 2016 US Arrival for Sports Sedan

March 6, 2014 by admin Leave a Comment

All-new Jaguar XE debuts in Geneva.

The Geneva Motor Show is serving up a number of hits this week including new products from Opel, Lamborghini, and Mercedes-Benz, to name a few. Jaguar has also gotten into the mix, announcing that its new compact sports sedan will be called the XE, featuring what the automaker says is an aluminum intensive unibody layout.

The all-new Jaguar XE will be built in the United Kingdom with its engines produced at a new Jaguar Land Rover Engine Manufacturing plant, also in the UK. Owned by Tata Motors, Jaguar as well as Land Rover have maintained independence while benefiting from the backing of a much larger automaker.

The Jaguar XE goes on sale in 2015 in Europe. The sedan arrives stateside in 2016.

***Reference — The Wall Street Journal: Jaguar Land Rover Increasing Engine Plant Investment***

Jaguar XE: From Concept to Reality

The upcoming model is based on the C-X17 concept car introduced in 2013, featuring an aluminum intensive structure. Jaguar claims that the sedans lightweight layout improves handling, performance, refinement, and efficiency. Specifications were not announced at Jaguars news conference.

Ian Callum, Director of Design, said: The new Jaguar XE is every bit a modern Jaguar car; more compact in size but visually striking. Customers will expect a great deal from a compact Jaguar car it must be practical but premium. We never forget we are designing a Jaguar car and that means it must be as exciting to look at and drive as it is brilliant to run and practical to own. We believe weve done just that with the Jaguar XE.

Ingenium Engine Range

The new engine manufacturing center will produce both four-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines that are lightweight, low-friction and emit fewer emissions. Both are part of Jaguars Ingenium engine range.

The all-new Jaguar XE compact sport sedan will bring Jaguar into the largest segment of the luxury car market with a dynamic new entry that will challenge the status quo of luxury car brands, said Jeff Curry, Brand Vice President of Jaguar North America. Jaguar is charting an exciting new path with the recent launch of the Jaguar F-TYPE and the introduction of the Jaguar XE, which completes our sedan line-up. We offer a more exclusive, distinct choice in the luxury car marketplace combining progressive British design, a high performance character and advanced aluminum technology.

***Reference — Jaguar & Land Rover: Jaguar XE Confirmed As Name For Compact Sports Sedan With All-New Ingenium Engine Family And Advanced Aluminum***

Jaguar Naming Convention

In selecting the XE name, Jaguar retains its naming convention, joining the XF, XJ, and XK in the product line up. F-Type coupe and convertible models are also sold. Full product details will be released later this year just prior to production.

Jaguar Land Rover N.A. LLC US sales are up 12.6 percent year to date. Jaguar sales rose by 35.2 percent in Feb. 2014 alone, the same month when overall US sales were flat. Globally, Jaguar sales were up by 42 percent in 2013, based on 76,668 units sold, for its best year since 2005.

British automotive building is on a rebound and is expected to exceed the previous peak annual production of 1.72 million units in hit in 1972 by 2017 reports Reuters.

***Reference — Reuters: Britains Jaguar Land Rover Taps Global Markets for Record Sales***

Photo courtesy of Jaguar Land Rover.

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