By: Jesse Adams
It’s unusual for a major car brand to take a long, six-year hiatus between ending production of one model and the launch of a new one, especially in a segment as competitive as compact executive sedans. But with the last X-Type built in 2009 and the introduction of the new XE this year, that’s exactly what Jaguar’s done.
It would be unfair to call the XE a replacement for the X-Type though, not only because of the production gap between them but also because Jag as a brand has changed hands in the interim, and under Tata ownership it’s made huge strides in quality, technology and style. Just look to the yacht-inspired XJ limo and supermodel-sexy F-Type for evidence.
The XE does inherit some wow factor elements from its two aforementioned stablemates – mainly in its motorised gear selector knob that raises and lowers from the centre console; and the luscious exhaust note of the range-topping supercharged V6. An interior festooned with finely stitched leather, quality switchgear and a vividly coloured touchscreen will also help its cause among some serious German rivals, but as a whole the XE is less about party-trick dramatics and more about strict business than the cars it’ll share showroom floors with.
SO WHAT SETS IT APART?
If it’s not already obvious, the XE competes in the tough 3 Series, C-Class and A4 bracket where it will rely on its aluminum rich construction, a unique suspension setup and alternative flavour to set it apart from segment leaders. Big claims of being the stiffest chassis ever from this marque accompany the new aluminium monocoque underpinning the XE, and while this alone might not pique the interest of prospective buyers, its double wishbone front and integral-link rear suspension might.
In English, this means it rides very well. Because engineers were able to design this car’s suspension from scratch, and not transplant parts from an existing Jag (or Ford as with older models), the XE makes no compromises in terms of mounting points, geometry and other things most people care little about. They will, however, appreciate its excellent balance of sporty handling and supple bump absorption.
I drove all three engine options at the press launch in Cape Town last week; each of them with standard suspension and all rode impressively well.
For R12 000 an Adaptive Dynamics option, which continually adjusts shock settings on the fly, should perform even better. The three Germans have set high standards in suspension qualities, but this new Jag will have no problem holding its own in this department.
CABIN CRAMPED BUT CLASSY
Jag also says that the XE’s specific suspension design allows minimum intrusion in boot space, but at 455 litres it’s still a little smaller than those of all three German counterparts. I was also a little surprised with rear legroom, of which there was almost none behind my six-foot-six co-driver. It does redeem itself with front seat comfort and dashboard ergonomics, although some might find the lack of iDrive type infotainment controls somewhat frustrating.
Almost all functionality, including destination inputs, media source selection and phone pairing happens through a relatively complex series of prods at the touchscreen.
WHICH IS THE BEST ENGINE?
Engine choices include an all-new “Ingenium” 2-litre turbodiesel with 132kW and 430Nm, a familiar 2-litre turbopetrol (shared with various Jaguar and Land Rover models) with 177kW and 340Nm, and a 3-litre supercharged V6 (identical to that in a base F-Type) with 250kW and 450Nm.
The Ingenium diesel’s a great performer with loads of low-rev torque. It pairs nicely with the eight-speed automatic gearbox, but is perhaps a little noisy compared to similar engines in competitor cars. Likewise, the 2-litre turbopetrol offers decent pep in most situations and was fun to blast over some of the Cape’s twistiest passes; but it’s the blown V6 which is best able to exploit the rear-wheel-drive chassis and fancy suspension. Power here surges right off idle and shrieks up to a 7 000rpm redline with wonderful crackle-pops on overrun. A worthy rival to 335i, S4 and the soon-to-be-launched C450 AMG.
WIDE CHOICE OF TRIM PACKAGES
Trim packages start with a basic Pure model (diesel only) with a five-speed manual transmission and man-made ‘leather’ upholstery. Prestige gets more luxurious trimmings such as real leather, brushed aluminium and gloss back fascias, as well as some extra driver assistance systems.
Portfolio spec, just like in other Jag models, means special leather with herringbone patterns, and bigger 18” wheels among other high-class features. R-Sport versions get bucket seats, black grille inserts and body colour side skirts together with other racy-looking bits.
Unfortunately, with pound to rand exchange rates through the roof, the new XE is a pricey proposition in South Africa. On value for money it falls down compared with its rivals, but it does offer an unusual alternative to the usual suspects ... for those willing to pay.
XE PRICES
2.0D Pure - R534 800
2.0D Prestige - R590 400
2.0D R-Sport - R614 000
2.0D Portfolio - R654 600
2.0T Prestige - R644 953
2.0T R-Sport - R668 653
2.0T Portfolio - R709 253
3.0 S - R915 692
Story: Star Motoring
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