The updated Jaguar XE is an alternative in the luxury sports sedan line-up which seems to be inundated by the likes from Mercedes-Benz, BMW or Audi here in Malaysia.
The XE however, should not be thought of as something different from the usual crowd because one sees less of it on the roads but instead, is just as worthy of your attention in what it has to offer.
From its looks, features and performance, the facelifted XE stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the rest of the competition.
However, as a fully-imported unit, it is at a disadvantage when it comes to price. It sells for RM408,800 (excluding road tax and insurance).
If you look beyond that, the XE has a ferocious mill under the hood mated to a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission comprising the 2.0-litre Ingenium turbo engine in the P300 configuration which outputs 300PS (296hp) and 400Nm of torque.
You may have already noticed some serious numbers here so it’s no surprise then that the XE goes from 0-100kph in 5.9 seconds with a top speed of 250kph.
Changes to the updated XE include new LED headlights with J-Blade daytime running lights (DRL), a new front bumper made even sportier with the R-Dynamic trim, a new rear bumper with dual tailpipes, new LED tail lights and new 18-inch wheels.
Some items in the cabin have also been updated such as the steering wheel, new SportShift gear selector and JaguarDrive Control switch.
One of the bigger makeovers however is the dual high-resolution touchscreens, which consist of the Touch Pro Duo infotainment system with a 10-inch display above and below, a 5.5-inch screen for the two-zone climate control with dynamic rotary dials.
The instrument cluster is fully digital with a 12.3-in display.
The review unit came in the spicy-yet-delicious Firenze Red and the interior follows suit with red upholstery for the seats and red stitching across the dark grey dashboard.
All the modern amenities are present such as Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity as well as wireless charging, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, 12V power sockets, USB ports and an electrically adjustable steering column.
While the XE has a sporty and muscular appearance outwardly, it is in the driving that makes all the difference. With the amount of torque and power on tap, the XE leaps into action without hesitation.
The car accelerates so quickly, it’s almost unnoticeable how fast one is going until you glance at the speedometer.
That sensation is also the result of a cabin that is so well insulated.
It is also quiet and comfortable in the cabin which makes it a relaxing environment to be in.
It must also be pointed out that the car’s handling is superior.
It can take sharp bends and corners at speed while remaining relatively flat and makes you want to push the car even harder.
Performance enthusiasts should take note, however, that if you want an aggressive exhaust note to go with it, just push the gear lever to the left to exploit Sport mode.
With that engaged, the roaring sound just floods the cabin and excites the senses and can leave one almost breathless what with the performance and handling the car offers.
This is the true nature of the XE and yet, it is also a very functional everyday driver with modest head and legroom for rear passengers and 40:20:40 folding rear seats in case you need more space for cargo.
The Jaguar Care programme includes a five-year warranty, five-year free service package and three years of roadside assistance.
The updated XE may be the best-kept secret in its segment and it is encouraged for you to test this car out and realise for yourself just how well it compares with the competition out there.
SPECIFICATIONS
Jaguar XE R-Dynamic
Engine: 1,997cc, Ingenium four-cylinder turbocharged
Maximum power: 300PS at 5,500rpm
Maximum torque: 400Nm from 1,500rpm to 4,500rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Acceleration (0-100kph): 5.9 seconds
Top speed: 250kph
Features: Keyless entry, push start ignition, LED automatic headlights with Daytime Running Lights (DRL), LED tail lights, auto high beam assist, rain sensing windscreen wipers, two-zone climate control, 18-inch wheels, leather seats, All Surface Progress Control (ASPC), JaguarDrive Control, torque vectoring by braking, dynamic stability control (DSC) with traction control, electronic parking brake, 10-inch touch screen with Touch Pro Duo infotainment, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth connectivity, rear camera, 360 parking aid, rear traffic monitor, lane keep assist, driver condition monitor, cruise control and speed limiter, airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), emergency brake assist, ISOFIX
Price: RM408,800 (excluding road tax and insurance)
