Given that the Jaguar XE just came out last year, you wouldn’t think that a major update would come so soon. Prepare to be surprised, because there are actually several updates in store for the 2018 Jaguar XE when it arrives at Jaguar Peabody. A very good car is about to get even better soon.
The first big change: more Ingenium engines. Last year’s Jaguar XE still relied on an older engine, but now we’re getting 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engines in several trim levels. Each one, in the 20t, 25t, and the diesel-powered 25d, is turbocharged, with the 25t getting a significant horsepower boost.
The 30t replaces the 35t and gets a 296 horsepower / 295 lb.-ft. of torque twin turbocharged engine. It’s no longer at the top of the heap, thanks to a new S Performance trim. That car’s supercharged V6 engine puts out 380 horsepower. All trims except the 20t can be optioned with all-wheel drive.
What else is new? Wider deployment of Configurable Dynamics drive modes, an optional hands-free trunk, and yet another update to InControl Touch Pro. This version has a new 12.3-inch split-screen capable display that now displays extended performance data and supports a payment app developed in partnership with Shell.
There’s more. The available active safety systems now include Forward Traffic Detection, pedestrian detection, active blind spot assist, and Forward Vehicle Guidance.
None of this is to say that they’ve thrown the baby out with the bathwater. The reliance on aluminum construction, along with the new engines, means lighter weight, better fuel economy, and good handling. The cabin remains quiet, the handling remains agile, and this remains one of the best new Jaguar cars.
While we’re looking forward to the 2018 version, we hasten to point out that the 2017 Jaguar XE remains a compelling buy. Stop by your Jaguar dealership near Boston today at 247 Newbury St. in Peabody, MA to test drive the 2017 model or to find out more about its 2018 successor. You really can’t go wrong either way.
