Although it has made its US debut at the NAIAS in January, Jaguar’s entry in the compact premium segment was launched officially during an event that took place at Hollywood’s Raleigh Studios right before the car’s display at the LA Auto Show.
The British automaker’s 3-Series fighter will be available in dealerships starting spring 2016. Its range includes three engines, rear- and four-wheel drive and four trims.
The base XE 25t is powered by a turbocharged 240 HP petrol four cylinder (yes, the naming strategy is as confusing as BMW’s…) and starts at US$34,900. The 20d is the sole diesel, with a 2.0-liter pumping out 180 HP and it’s priced from US$36,400, while the range-topping 35t has a 3-liter supercharged V6 that’s good enough for 340 HP and will set you back at least US$41,700. Mind you, you must also factor in a US$995 destination charge…
All three engines are mated to an 8-speed auto transmission supplied by ZF, but the 35t gets the sturdier 8HP70 instead of the lesser models’ 8HP45. The 20d and 35t can be ordered with AWD, too, unlike the 25t that is RWD-only.
US buyers will be able to choose between the XE, XE Premium, XE Prestige and XE R-Sport trims. Depending on spec, the new 2016 Jaguar XE equipment includes the InControl Touch Pro infotainment system with a 10-inch tablet-style touchscreen, Wi-Fi hotspot function, iOS and Android connectivity as either standard or optional.
The Intelligent Active Driver Assistance technologies include Lane Keep Assist, Adaptive Speed Limiter and Driver Condition Monitor, while Jaguar points out that its 5 year/50,000 mile EliteCare warranty package is best in class.
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