Something special about this Jaguar

Test Drive by Graham Breeze

There’s still something very special about driving a Jaguar despite the array of competitors fighting for a slice of the brand’s market.

As the competition grows, develops and improves Jaguar designers could easily have sat back, enjoying the luxury of a protected comfort zone. But instead they produced an XE R-Sport saloon which is a sheer joy to drive.

The rear wheel drive XE is the only vehicle in its class to use a light aluminium skin, which when paired with double wishbone front suspension and an integral link rear axle, is fundamental to the dynamics.

Jaguar’s expertise in aluminium structure engineering means exceptional fuel consumption and emissions figures. In fact the 2.0i4 163PS diesel on test returned figures of 68.9mpg on the combined cycle, CO2 emission figures of only 106 g/km and was still capable of a top speed of 132mph and 0-60mph in under eight seconds.

There’s a long 2,835mm wheelbase and low seating position meaning a streamlined profile, while you will not be disappointed inside the cabin  which offers the expected outstanding levels of comfort. It’s quite simply a class beating interior that tells you all you need to know about Jaguar.

Jaguar’s new InControl infotainment system takes centre stage with an innovative 8” touchscreen bringing fast access to all features and functions along with iOS and Android smartphone apps.

The R-Sport trim benefits from a suite of design changes to go with the image including a dedicated body kit and the model on test came with a brilliant list of standard items.

There’s torque vectoring through braking, drive control, sports suspension, power steering, cruise control, hill start assist, brake pad wear indicators, electric parking brake, stop/start facility and speed proportional steering.

There’s rain sensing automatic wipers, all-round electric windows, an emergency brake system, stability control, traction control, rear parking assist, tyre pressure monitoring and an impressive SatNav system.

Back seat passengers get armrests but the leg room of a third passenger is badly inhibited by the transmission tunnel.

Base price is £34,075 but the test car would have set you back £44,341 thanks to lightweight 17” alloys, heated and cooled seats, a power convenience pack, an electric tow bar, Meridian sound system, 40-20-40 split and fold rear seats, heated steering wheel, parking assist, interior mood lighting, a heads-up display for the driver and a full sliding panoramic roof.

£44,341 may sound a lot but it’s a competitive label in this sector and the model is an absolute joy to drive on both country roads and motorways thanks to being the stiffest and most aerodynamic Jaguar saloon car ever built.

Jaguar created the blueprint for the first ever sports saloon with the iconic Mk II, a car which distilled sports car performance and dynamics into a stylish four-door body. The new XE builds on this unique heritage.

The sleek, low, coupé-like exterior proportions combine with an efficient package - instantly recognisable as a Jaguar.