Jaguar finally reveals the XE

The curtains are taken off and the new Jaguar XE has been revealed to the world during a star-studded event held at Earls Court, London. This is the global debut of the new entry-level sedan from the British marquee and what a stunning job has been done by Ian Callum and his team.

The XE S rewards drivers with the responsiveness and refinement of its supercharged 3.0-litre V6. Generating 335bhp 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 0-100km/hr in just 5.1 seconds, the XE S has an electronically-limited maximum speed of 250km/hr.

The XE is a rear-drive that redefines the concept of the sports saloon thanks to its advanced lightweight construction. The XE goes on sale in 2015, with the high-performance S model at the top of the range. The other engines on offer will be the newly developed four-cylinder engines that Jaguar Land Rover has designed and manufactured on its own in its new facility for four-cylinder engines.

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. Jaguar will target a 3 Series customer with this car and 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 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 XE is also the lightest, stiffest and most aerodynamic Jaguar saloon ever built. The XE boasts the lowest cost of ownership of any Jaguar and is also the most environmentally sustainable.

The XE now completes the Jaguar saloon car range sitting below the XF and XJ models. The remaining other details of the XE will be shared at the upcoming Paris Motor Show, similar to how the company had unveiled the Range Rover in London followed by the launch at the Paris Motor Show in 2012.