Jaguar XE 2015-2019 Portfolio

Jaguar is on a roll off late, it has posted its best year in terms of sales and that has not stopped it from sitting back and basking in success. Infact it wants to further build on this momentum which has led to the launch of Jaguar XE . The Variant in focus today is the XE Portfolio face lift version. It is the one of the most advanced and efficient car from the maker. "The car is the closest thing we will ever create to something that is alive," claims the founder William Lyons. The trim is expected to lock horns with the likes of BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 in the market. Does it have all it takes to compete in this segment? We find out.

Pros:

1. Luxurious interiors and extended storage compartments.
2. Safety features are impressive. Use of high strength aluminium, dual air bags, sensors and other aspects improve safety standards.

Cons:

1. Though the available leg room is satisfactory, it could have been further improved.

Stand Out Features:

1. In terms of performance and agility, this trim beats the competition; advanced driving dynamics, brake assists, all surface progress control are sharp and does enhance the drive.

Overview:

Jaguar is known to come out with machines which make you feel special and excited. Jaguar XE Portfolio is a sports luxury car which comes with a petrol engine. With a distinctive combination of performance and styling the trim delivers exceptional driving experience. Use of aluminium intensive architecture in manufacturing helps it to be light weight thus leading to superior performance and better fuel efficiency. Once you enter the vehicle, you will fall in love with the perfectly sculpted interiors and mood lightning design. Every control here is perfectly positioned for easy access. 8.0" touch screen infotainment system with blue-tooth connectivity and other set of features help you stay connected at all times. All this put together makes this one of the most advanced, efficient and refined machine from the maker.

Exterior:

Aggressively designed exteriors will impress you at first glance. Classy bonnet with sweeping lines makes it look majestic and they are designed to further enhance the aerodynamic factor. Derived from F-type, the front grille produces sporty look and also helps the engine be at optimum temperature at all times. Jaguar badge at the center of radiator grille is striking. Head light and day time running lamps cluster is perfectly positioned to enhance the appearance further. From the side view, the trim has got B-pillar design, chrome sills on windows, character lines, body colored ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirror), and perfectly trimmed door handles. The side view is enhanced further by usage of chrome side vents, and alloy wheels. The rear is loaded with signature features. Split LED tail lamps, body colored rear bumper, high mounted center brake light all put together add to the sporty character. Tinted wind screen, mirrors and short roof antenna, sunroof on top require a special mention for the hard work put in by Jaguar to make this machine look special.

Interior:

On the inside, it has got luxurious interiors which define extravagance. To provide better passenger comfort, the trim has got soft grain Windsor leather seats with herringbone perforation and leather wrapped instrument panel. The dashboard and center console, hold most of the accessories, which appear rather trendy. On the dashboard, you will find a dual pod digital instrument cluster with speedometer, tachometer and other useful information. A multi function steering wheel with stain highlights is provided for driver convenience. Entertainment is provided with 8" inch capacitive touch screen infotainment system along with Blue-tooth connectivity, navigation system, and meridian audio sound system. Amenities are augmented by provision of dual-zone climate control, 10 way electric front seats, driver memory, reach adjustable electric steering system, twin front cup holders, front arm rest with storage compartment, sun glass holder, smokers pack and other such features put together make this a complete package and an object of desire.

Performance:

The Jaguar XE Portfolio is powered by a dynamic 2.0 litre turbocharged 4 cylinder petrol engine with start stop ability. The powerful engine with 1999 cc displacement capacity can churn out 237 bhp at 5500 rpm with a combination of 340 Nm torque in between 2000 to 4000 rpm. Paired to an 8 speed automatic transmission gear box with Jaguar sequential shift, this mill can do 0-100 kmph in 6.8 seconds and can attain a top speed of 250 kmph. Aluminium engine not only derives best performance but also enhances the fuel efficiency because of its light weight. The result, this machine returns a decent mileage of 13.05 kmpl. Manufacturer has incorporated All Surface Progress Control (ASPC) and autonomous braking system to the machine to enhance the performance further. To add another feather in cap this beauty does better in terms of emissions as well, with 181.788 G/KM, the emissions are reduced thus becoming an eco friendly option as well.

Ride Handling:

The driving dynamics are built to deliver top draw handling and riding experience to the passengers. All Wheel Drive (AWD), accompanied by IDD (Intelligent Drive-line Dynamics), offers a smooth and safer ride. Aluminium construction helps it be light weight and aids in optimum weight distribution. Advanced driving dynamics for the machine does enhance the ride experience. Precision-engineered chassis offers top class sports performance at all terrains, added by advanced damper technology. Riding the machine is always fun with Jaguar drive control, which lets you to select any of the 4 available driving modes. Multi function steering system is provided with next generation EPAS (Electronic Power Assisted Steering) which offers you top class control in all conditions.

Braking efficiency is boosted with disc brakes. Front suspension channels air to cool the brakes to avoid any deficiency during awkward, unavoidable braking condition. It also comes with Torque Vectoring by braking, which enhances control at corners and tight roads.

Safety:

For Jaguar, safety of passengers has always been a top priority. Dual air bags for driver and passenger are offered with seat occupant detector for passenger. Safety standards are further improved with next generation braking ability, dynamic stability control, emergency brake assist. It also comes with Bi-function HID Xenon head lamps and electric windows. These are accompanied with Hazard lights under heavy braking, torque vectoring by braking, all surface progress control to enhance safety on slippery roads. Jaguar has packed this machine with features which include parking sensors, door ajar warnings, crash sensors, passive head restraints, child safety locks etc. Side impact beams aid in dealing with side on collisions. Manufacturer has incorporated engine immobilizer to avoid theft as well.

Verdict:

XE Portfolio from Jaguar is definitely a car to go for. With exceptional safety standards, dominating stance and luxurious interiors, it has all the potential to be the best in segment. You can hardly find any con for this advanced car. However if you are one of those on the thrifty side and want more at a lesser price then it is best to look elsewhere.