This review is simple – I love a Jaguar. And the reason for this is quite simple. My father owned several XJ models over many years – along with the odd Daimler Sovereign or two which made me into the sort of kid who loved the idea of a car with either a V8 or V12 engine.
Also, maybe I am on my own here – but I always had the impression that a Daimler was that little bit better than the Jaguar, which is why I think my father always went for the Daimler brand.
Actually, when I think about it, I have a soft spot for both of them really, but for very different reasons, which I hope one day to be able to tell you all about it.
So, what’s the Jaguar XE like then? Well, basically it’s a very good car. Plus, Jaguar has done a terrific job of pricing it in such a way that even a normal person like me could afford to own one.
Power and Efficiency:
The XE I had on test was fitted with the brilliant 2.0 litre Turbocharged Diesel engine that was also equipped with Intelligent Stop/Start system to enhance fuel economy. When it comes to power you get 163ps and 380Nm of torque – meaning it will accelerate from 0-60 mph in around 8.9sec. Top Speed is also maxed out at 132mph. I am not going to talk much about MPG, but I did manage 50+mpg (combined) making the XE a strong performer.
On the road:
The steering is accurate in whatever situation unfolds itself on the road. The chassis is also very good – and it grips the road like its life depends on it. The suspension is also set up very nicely thanks to the Jaguar engineers taking the time to give it its defining character when out on the open road. Also, on a motorway, it’s a real ‘dream’ to drive because it feels like it belongs there and nothing feels rushed or staged. True Jaguar form then!
Equipment, Safety and Technology
The designers have added in some nice detailing lines and the appearance is sleek but also bold – meaning you can see all the Jaguar DNA right there at the heart of the machine. The XE is also equipped with modern and lightweight materials inside and the layout is very good. There are also some very good ideas inside and it is these ideas that make the XE stand out from the crowd.
Again – The XE’s cabin layout is just like all Jaguars’ – perfect! Jaguar has always focused on the driver and what they have done on the inside of the XE is a very nice design indeed.
The XE (SE) also comes with an array of standard equipment such as; a 6-Speed manual transmission, Cruise Control and Speed Limiter, Jaguar Drive Control, Electric Parking Brake, (EPB) Hill Launch Assist, Power Steering (inc EPAS) – Speed-Proportional Power Steering, Torque Vectoring by Braking (TVBB).
Digital Audio Broadcast (DAB) Radio, Navigation Pro, Audio AUX-IN, Bluetooth®, Text to Speech, 1 x USB Socket, Traffic Sign Recognition and Intelligent Speed Limiter, Rear Parking Aid, Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB). Lane Departure Warning, Airbags – Driver and Front Passenger, with Seat Occupant Detector for Passenger, Full-Length Side Window Curtain Airbags, Powered Child Locks, Dynamic Stability Control, Traction Control, Emergency Brake Assist and a 10” Touch Pro.
To sum up:
The XE has been built for quality and at a price that everyone can afford. You could go out and buy a BMW or a basic Mercedes – but why would anyone do that – when you could own a car that has all the things you will ever need. Price (from) £31,505 By Anthony Yates
