[POV] 2018 Jaguar XE 2.0d Test Drive

With attractive styling, a satisfying drive and a nice interior, the Jaguar XE is a strong competitor to the likes of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series.

The cabin of the XE is comfortable and well-equipped, with cruise control, navigation and a smart rising rotary controller for automatics. It's is a modern, very well thought through dashboard, with just the right balance of physical buttons to virtual ones. Passenger space in the front is fine, but its sloping roof and limited rear legroom makes it a tight fit for large adults, while its 455-litre boot isn't as big as German rivals.

The 20d is powered by Jaguar's 2.0-litre diesel engine. It mixes impressively robust torque (430Nm between 1750rpm and 2500rpm) with an impressive economy rating (4.2L/100km). Some turbo lag is evident from a standing start; otherwise, it delivers muscular, accessible and utterly fuss-free performance, and a relaxed, easygoing cruising gait. The eight-speed auto contributes to the 20d's excellent driveability with its smoothness, smart and decisiveness.

The XE, despite aluminium-intensive construction, isn't notably lighter than the best compact-prestige sedans but its structure feels unflinchingly solid even on worst roads and serves as the base for a stellar dynamic performance.

The XE can be flicked into corners with effortless precision, and you get a generous dose of poise, predictability and road-holding to complement the keen turn-in. Even better, the XE's cornering talents don't come at the all too common cost of a compromised ride. There's an underlying firmness to the suspension but bigger, harsher bumps are rounded off surprising finesse.

Engine type: Inline 4 Turbo
Fuel Type: Diesel
Displacement: 2.0 l (1999 cm3)
Power: 180 hp @ 4000 rpm
Torque: 430 Nm (317 lb-ft) @ 1750-2500 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Layout: front engine, rear wheel drive
Top speed: 225 km/h (139 mph)
Curb weight: 1565 kg (3450 lbs)
Average fuel consumption: 4.2 l/100 km (56 mpg US / 67 mpg UK)

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