Jaguar XE

Jaguar has always been known for its elegance, and the new XE is no different. The 2020 model year updates bring a series of design tweaks that infuse a sense of broadness and authority into the car. Slimmer LED headlights complement a wider grille, while flared-out bumpers add to the visual girth. This redesigned façade successfully captures the XE’s sporty essence while elevating its premium aesthetics.

Inside, the XE has received the facelift it truly needed. Every inch has been refined—from the texture and color of the materials to the layout of the dashboard. The new, wider touchscreen is a highlight, and the toggle switch for drive modes is a practical and much needed upgrade. Although India misses out on the Touch Pro-Duo system available in other markets, you'll have to do with the single-screen layout for now.

When it comes to safety, the Jaguar XE doesn’t cut any corners. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) is not just a buzzword in the XE; it’s a philosophy. From Adaptive Cruise Control to Lane Keep Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition, the car feels like it’s always one step ahead when it comes to safety.

The vehicle also gets features like torque vectoring for enhanced control and ASPC (All Surface Progress Control) that adjusts traction needs based on the road conditions. The XE has a robust frame built with high tensile steel, further reinforced in key areas to withstand impact. Apart from front, the car also gets curtain shield airbags for side and rear impacts. commitment to overall road safety teh brand also offers pedestrian safety features with the sedan.

For the Indian market, the car comes in both petrol and diesel variants, offering drivers flexibility in choice. Under the hood, the Ingenium 2-liter, 4-cylinder engine makes 297 bhp, making the XE feel potent, but it’s not just the numbers that impress. The engine's acceleration curve is remarkably linear, eliminating the often annoying turbo lag that can disrupt a seamless drive. The throttle is exceptionally responsive, working well with the 8-speed automatic transmission. 
While the petrol engine brings an element of zest to the driving experience, the diesel option holds its own quite impressively. It offers 176 bhp and a generous 430 Nm of torque, providing a punchy low-end and a steady power supply throughout the rev range. Both engines are rear-wheel-drive, focusing on delivering a driving experience that reminds you—this is a sports sedan at its core.

One of the standout features on the new XE is its nearly perfect weight distribution, which contributes to balanced and responsive handling. As a driver you get a lot of confidence on corners, thanks to the sharp steering that provides ample feedback.
The suspension system has been tuned to offer a balance between comfort and sportiness. It is soft enough to absorb bumps and undulations, ensuring a plush ride, but taut enough to limit body roll and provide a dynamic handling experience. The various driving modes—Eco, Comfort, and Dynamic—allow you to customize the driving experience further, adjusting throttle response, steering weight, and other parameters. The car feels equally at home while navigating city streets or on winding roads.

Priced starting at Rs. 44.98 lakh (ex-showroom, India), the XE does command a premium over its rivals like the BMW 3 Series. However, with the improvements in design, comfort, and safety, this price tag feels increasingly justified.

Given the options of S and SE trims in India, going for the SE variant is advisable, considering the additional features and luxuries it offers. The SE trim ticks all the boxes when it comes to delivering a comprehensive luxury sedan experience.

The closest adversary for the Jaguar XE is undoubtedly the new BMW 3-Series. Despite a lower starting price of Rs. 41.40 lakh, the 3-Series now faces stiff competition from a thoroughly improved XE. Buyers might also consider the Audi A4, but the Jaguar brings a unique blend of British luxury and performance to the table. The Jaguar XE is no longer an underdog but a strong contender, challenging established names with more aplomb. If you’re in the market for a sedan that brings together the best of both sportiness and luxury, the Jaguar XE deserves your attention.