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2019 Jaguar XE refocuses its aim on latest 3-series and A4

New tech and styling plus an emphasis on quality for the updated XE

The Jaguar XE has just been given a thorough update to help it compete against rivals such as the new BMW 3-series, the Audi A4 and Mercedes’ C-class. The small Jag, although excellent to drive, has remained something of an also-ran in the highly competitive compact executive class, but Jaguar is hoping to reverse its fortunes by focusing on desirability as much as technical capability.

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Design changes on the outside are subtle on first acquaintance, but the new all-LED lighting units front and rear have been reprofiled to give the XE sharper and more distinctive lighting signatures. A new R-Dynamic trim level (replacing the previous R-Design models) also includes a new grille mesh and a more open lower front bumper, while standard models pick up a subtler, but equally fresh look. Together these changes sharpen up the already svelte XE into a sleek and sophisticated-looking compact executive.

> Click here for our review of the new BMW 3-series

The cabin may look familiar too, but it has received a big jump in both tech and perceived quality. At the centre of this is an upgraded HMI, now combining a similar dual-screen set-up to that seen in Jaguar’s I-Pace. It’s important to note that the lower screen, as in the I-Pace, is not the full-width item found in Land Rover models, rather a simplified unit incorporating both a touchscreen and touch-sensitive buttons and knobs into the single pane of plastic.

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The rising gear selector has been ditched for the ‘joystick’ selector seen in the F-type, and is surrounded by a redesigned centre console. The new Jaguar steering wheel, with a smaller central boss, has also been brought across from the I-Pace. Although the general interior design has not changed significantly beyond this, Jaguar is placing a greater emphasis on material quality, highlighted by the new satin chrome finish on the steering wheel, dash and centre console.

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Beneath the skin, the aluminium intensive chassis remains much as before, as does the selection of engines, comprising petrol and diesel four-cylinder ‘Ingenium’ units. Topping the range will be the P300 R-Dynamic model, which is fitted exclusively with all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. With a relatively modest 297bhp, it’ll get the XE to 62mph in 5.7sec and act as a rival to the BMW 330i or Audi A4 45 TFSi, rather than the more potent M340i or S4. The previous supercharged V6 XE S was quietly killed off due to emissions regulations a little while ago and we suspect that engine won’t make a return any time soon.

The new XE is priced slightly lower than before, yet now features more standard equipment across the range, including leather seats, 18-inch wheels and those LED lighting units. Prices start at £33,915 for the entry-level D180, and the order books are now open.

With more standard equipment, better tech, improved interior quality and a sharper new look, Jaguar’s hoping the revised XE will appeal on desirability just as much as competence as it struggles to match the industry big-boys in terms of tech, model variety and indeed sales. We’ll have to wait and see if customers agree.

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