Jaguar XE

Jaguar XE Quick Review

The Jaguar XE’s exterior sets the tone, and the cabin furthers the sporty image. The dash is not only smart in looks but being low-set it offers drive...

The Jaguar XE’s exterior sets the tone, and the cabin furthers the sporty image. The dash is not only smart in looks but being low-set it offers drivers a great view of the road. With the facelfit, the XE's cabin has taken a big step up in perceived quality. Elements like the touch panels for the climate control and digital dials have made all the difference. Front seat comfort is also nice but the XE is not the best car for the chauffeur-driven. Rear seat legroom and headroom are quite limited. The Jaguar XE’s 180hp, 2.0-litre diesel engine is competent and has a likeable mid-range but loses points for being louder than it ought to be. Really, it’s the 250hp, 2.0-litre petrol engine that is more in keeping with the XE’s sporty persona. The petrol might not be the quietest but it is strong and exciting, and brings the best out of the XE. What plays spoilsport is the gearbox - it's not the smoothest or the quickest on the draw. The Jag is beautifully balanced and corners with fluidity, and keen drivers are sure to love the feelsome steering. There is a firmness to the XE’s ride but the suspension and chunky tyres will shield you from most of the rough stuff.