Jaguar’s 3-series rival has finally been launched here in India, at the Auto Expo. This is the company’s first shot at this segment, which has the Mercedes-Benz C-class, BMW’s 3-series, Audi’s A4 and Volvo’s S60 in sight.
The car’s subtle design approach has managed to win us over, and we’re sure that buyers will be no exception. Initially, the XE will be sold only with two petrol engines: a 197bhp unit and a 237bhp unit. ‘Pure’ and ‘Portfolio’ are two versions that customers will be able to choose from. And both engines will be linked to the 8-speed ZF auto ‘box. And for those of you who think the BMW is only one making rear-wheel drive cars, well then, you’d be rather surprised to know that the XE is rear-wheel driven too. Signs of a diesel aren’t – in any way – around the corner, but certainly in the near future.
Get a load of the features on offer: power-adjustable front seats, cruise control, Jaguar’s All Surface Progress Control traction control system, an 8-inch Jaguar InControl Touch infotainment system and a lot of other goodies find their way onto the car; then there is the Windsor leather upholstery, and a 380W Meridian surround sound system offered on the top-of-the-line ‘Portfolio’ variant. Prices start at a competitive 39.90 lakh rupess, going upwards of 46 lakhs. Soon enough, you’re going to be seeing a plethora of these beauties, not just at traffic signals, but in apartment parking lots, and what have you!