The Jaguar XE has been revealed to the world during a star-studded event held at Earls Court, London.
A true driver’s car, the rear-drive Jaguar XE redefines the concept of the sports saloon thanks to its advanced lightweight construction, streamlined styling, luxurious interior, and outstanding ride and handling. The XE goes on sale in 2015, with the high-performance S model at the top of the range.
The XE S rewards drivers with the responsiveness and refinement of its supercharged 3.0-litre V6. Generating 340PS and 450Nm of torque, this high-revving engine is linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shift controls, giving the driver immediate access to the vehicle’s incredible reserves of power. Accelerating to 0-60mph in just 4.9 seconds, the XE S has an electronically-limited maximum speed of 155mph.
“Jaguar’s position as the leading premium manufacturer of aluminium vehicles allowed us to develop a light, stiff body structure that is ground-breaking in its class. It enables the XE’s advanced chassis technologies to deliver an unprecedented balance of agility and levels of refinement previously found only in vehicles from the segments above.” Kevin Stride, Vehicle Line Director, Jaguar XE
The aluminium-intensive Jaguar XE is the first model developed from Jaguar Land Rover’s new modular vehicle architecture and will set the standard for driving dynamics in the midsize segment. The long wheelbase and low seating position enable perfect proportions and a streamlined, coupe-like profile.
The S model’s large front air intakes, chrome side vents, discreet rear spoiler and optional 20-inch forged alloy wheels hint at the performance potential of Jaguar’s supercharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine. The cabin offers outstanding levels of comfort and spaciousness. Exquisite materials and finishes, combined with traditional Jaguar craftsmanship make this an interior like nothing else in the class.
The XE S will be joined by other models powered by highly efficient 2.0-litre, four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines matched to smooth-shifting six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic transmissions. The diesels – part of Jaguar’s all-new Ingenium engine family – provide exemplary fuel consumption and CO2 emissions from 75mpg and 99g/km.
The XE is also the lightest, stiffest and most aerodynamic Jaguar saloon ever built. It is also the first Jaguar to be equipped with electric power steering, tuned to provide exceptional responsiveness and feel but with lower energy consumption than hydraulic systems. The XE boasts the lowest cost of ownership of any Jaguar and is also the most environmentally sustainable.
The aluminium-intensive Jaguar XE is manufactured at Jaguar Land Rover’s Solihull plant in an all-new purpose-built facility. Part of a £1.5bn investment, this highly flexible, state-of-the-art manufacturing site will create 1,700 UK jobs.
The XE now completes the Jaguar saloon car range sitting below the XF and XJ models. Full details of the entire XE range will be announced at the Paris Motorshow in October.
“Our mission was to create an exciting and dynamic design clearly reflecting the XE’s positioning as a serious driver’s car. The cab-rearward proportions and tight packaging achieve that and give the XE the appearance of movement even when it’s standing still. It bears a strong family resemblance to the F-TYPE and will stand apart in the crowd.” Ian Callum, Jaguar Director of Design
The new XE is powered by a range of four- and six-cylinder all-aluminium petrol and diesel engines offering an impressive blend of performance, refinement and fuel efficiency with a breadth of capability.
For customers demanding ultimate performance and an exhilarating engine note from idle right up to the redline there’s the XE S, which shares its supercharged 3.0-litre V6 with the acclaimed F-TYPE.
Spray-guided direct injection and fully variable valve timing optimise power and torque throughout the rev range. The 90° cylinder bank angle provides space for the twin-vortex Roots-type supercharger, a balancer shaft ensures smooth running.
Developing 340PS/450Nm, the V6 provides the XE S with exceptional acceleration and performance: 0-60 mph takes just 4.9 seconds, and top speed is electronically-limited to 155mph.
SPECIFICATIONS: 2995 cc | 6 cylinders | Twin-Vortex supercharger | ZF 8HP45 8-speed automatic transmission | 0-100 kmph in 5.1 seconds | 250 kmph top speed | 340 PS power | 450 Nm torque | 14.4 kmpl fuel consumption | 4,672 mm length | 1,416 mm height | 1,474 kg kerb weight
Indicative pricing for the XE range: from £27,000 (Rs. 26.37 lakhs)
