PREVIEW
Under new ownership, Jaguar has made a compelling comeback across the luxury spectrum. The automaker has reinforced its traditional positions, rolled out new classics like the XK and XF, and shown ambition in attacking new segments.
With the 2016 Jaguar XE, the brand turns its attention to the bread-and-butter class of entry-level luxury sedans led by the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. Jaguar tried this once before with the X-Type, a decent car that was otherwise dismissed by Jaguar faithful and shoppers alike as a tarted-up Ford midsize sedan (it shared its platform with Ford's Mondeo, a European midsize sedan).
This time, however, the British automaker has momentum and manufacturing on its side. The XE will use a new lightweight aluminum platform, configured for both rear- and all-wheel drive.
The "baby Jag," as it's apt to become known, will also be the first model to benefit from Jaguar's new in-house engine family. Jaguar hasn't released all the details yet, but the XE will use a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with at least as much output as the 240-horsepower version in the current XF. An eight-speed automatic transmission is almost certain.
The XE will step into a well-established and ruthless segment. The BMW 3 Series sets the benchmark for dynamic performance and build quality, while the Audi A4 offers technological sophistication and inimitable style. Mercedes-Benz redesigns the C-Class for 2015, which should also include a coupe. And although the Japanese brands lack the cachet of the European badges, the Infiniti Q50 (formerly the G37) and 2014 Lexus IS 250 are fine sport sedans with premium materials and appointments.
The Jaguar XE sedan will arrive at dealers in 2016, although officials are no more specific than that. Check back for more information on the Jaguar XE, including specs, driving impressions and buying advice as it becomes available.
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