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2015 Jaguar XE sedan revealed


Jaguar unveils the new 3 Series-rivalling XE mid-size sedan.

After a prolonged teaser campaign, Jaguar has finally taken the wraps off the production version of its new entry-level XE sedan, set to slot beneath the XF and XJ models when it goes on sale internationally next year. 

Tasked with tempting buyers away from BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi rivals, the XE represents Jaguar’s return to the mid-size luxury sedan segment.

Last time Jaguar attempted to battle with the 3 Series, it entered into the ring with a dressed up Ford Mondeo in the form of the X-Type that was sold between 2001-09. Now however, things are different and the modern post-Ford ownership Jaguar has produced something rear-drive that might genuinely rival the 3 Series and C-Class segment veterans.

The overall design of the XE is a further evolution of Jaguar’s current design language introduced by the larger XF sedan and consolidated with the F-Type. With a long bonnet, rear-set cabin and short bootlid, the aim is to emphasize the XE’s rear-wheel drive stance and sporting intentions.

At the rear, the XE adopts a smooth and clean profile with a subtle hint of F-Type in the shape of the LED taillights, while the ‘S’ model (pictured) gains a subtle lip spoiler and dual exit exhaust tips.

The interior design is unlike any other current Jaguar, with a clear driver focus. The central stack is relatively undramatic but there are some funky shapes molded into the door panels and dashboard to give a unique aesthetic.

The XE is also Jaguar’s first model to receive its new InControl multimedia system which features an 8-inch touchscreen that houses all the gizmos including satnav, Bluetooth phone and audio, USB connectivity and downloadable applications. The car can even become a Wi-fi hotspot, which can serve up to eight devices at a time.

In a first for the segment, the XE uses an aluminium intensive monocoque to reduce weight and improve handing and efficiency. Jaguar claims the XE is the brand's lightest and stiffest sedan ever, while it’s also the first model to ride on the British firm’s new modular architecture.

Jaguar claims the XE is fitted with the most sophisticated suspension design in its class. Front suspension is by double wishbones while the rear employs an integral link setup, usually only found on larger sedans.

The XE will be offered with a range of petrol and diesel engines which can be had with either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic gearbox and rear-wheel drive.

The range-topping XE S model uses the 250kW/450Nm 3.0-litre supercharged V6 from the F-Type and can crack 96km/h (60mph) in 4.9 seconds. A more powerful ‘R’ model is tipped to arrive at a later date with Jaguar’s 5.0-litre supercharged V8 beneath its bonnet.

The XE is also launching with a new range of efficient ‘Ingenium’ four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. The 120kW/380Nm 2.0-litre diesel unit will launch first and can produce as little as 99g/km of CO2 in the XE, making this new model the greenest Jaguar ever.

The full Jaguar XE range will be announced at the Paris motor show on October 2 before the new model goes on sale internationally early next year. Expect to see the XE in local showrooms towards the end of 2015.

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