Modern Motoring: 6 takeaways from the 2017 Jaguar XE Diesel R-Sport
/Engine
The XE’s diesel engine consists of a four-cylinder turbocharged 2.0 litre power plant producing 180 horsepower and a tremendous 318 lb-ft. of torque through an 8-speed automatic gearbox. Even though the 180 seems low on paper, it’s the high torque level that should excite you because it’s torque that gets you there and horsepower that keeps you there. There is a 3.0 litre V6 gasoline engine available for those who’ve been put off diesel by a certain German carmaker, but remember that one bad apple does not spoil the whole bunch.
The diesel engine fuel ratings register at 7.8/5.8/6.9 city/highway/combined for L/100 km.
With a nearly 900 km range through a 56 litre tank, prepare to see your gas rewards diminish.
You could probably squeeze out 1,000 km if you’re gentle on the gas pedal and are doing highway driving.
Appearance
As a 3-Series fighter, the 2017 XE is well-prepared for battle. Smooth, flowing design lines combined with an aggressive and athletic appearance are unmistakably Jaguar. The signature “J-Blade” headlights and tail lights bookend this compact luxury vehicle smartly and while some may see too much of a similarity from the mid-sized XF, I see no issue with borrowing from yourself, especially when you have a smart formula. 19” wheels also contribute to the stylish exterior and the R-Sport includes a subtle body kit that stands out just enough without being offensive.
On the road
The 2017 XE performs extremely well in both city and highway settings. The diesel engine’s massive amount of torque gives you power in the lower gears and once you’re at cruising speeds, the car performs effortlessly. The XE tightly holds corners and turns and is both nimble and surefooted, thanks in part to its Intelligent Driveline Dynamics AWD system. There’s a bit of rumble that leaks into the cabin, as is the case with all diesel engines, but with a range of nearly 900 km and a stellar sound system, it’s something I’m happy to deal with.
There aren’t many twisty roads in the GTA, so I ventured north into Belfountain to enjoy putting the XE through its paces and came away impressed with how responsive it was and how well it absorbed each turn of the steering wheel. For a daily commuter, Jaguar has put together a classy and refined ride that’s far from bland.
Technology
The tech side is built around the Jaguar InControl Touch system, which offers an 8” touch screen, navigation guidance, Bluetooth, integrated text to voice and precise climate control. There’s an upgrade available to a 10.2” screen with enhanced navigation for those who feel bigger is better.
Safety technology sees available blind spot monitoring, parallel and perpendicular park assist, a surround camera system, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control and driver condition monitoring.
Love music? Jaguar offers a Meridian Digital Surround Sound system with 17 speakers and 825W of crystal clear sound.
Interior
Starting with heavily side and thigh bolstered power leather seats that are immensely comfortable, the interior is unmistakably luxurious. There are a variety of different materials and colours to pick from to help create your ideal theme.
The rising/collapsing gearshift is growing on me and I’m happy to say I didn’t reach for a traditional gear lever once during my nearly 10 day test period.
Even though the XE is Jaguar’s entry level offering, the modern luxury provided elevates its high end feel, despite a few hard plastic bits here and there.
The 8” infotainment touchscreen and supporting buttons work well together and there’s no guesswork in navigating the system.
Pricing
My top of the ladder trim, the R-Sport, will set you back $54,000 before anything else is added.
My tester had close to $10,000 worth of options, including a comfort and convenience package for $2,000 (heated/vented front seats, power rear sunshade, powered trunk lid), technology package for $2,600 (InControl Touch Pro with Meridian Sound), $3,100 Driver Assistance Package (surround camera, adaptive cruise,) 19 inch wheels for $1,500 and a $1,000 heads up display.
The XE will do you just fine, even without these add-ons.
There’s a mid-trim Prestige ($49,500) and an entry level Premium for $45,000, if you’re looking to keep below the $50K mark.
Enjoy the full gallery below:
