Key Equipment is Standard Across All Models

The new generation Jaguar sedan that led the charge was the "XE". It pursues agile handling and efficient fuel economy with a lightweight body and a new lineup of engines, including a newly developed four-cylinder. Meanwhile, it is also noted for its comfortable cabin and a wealth of features such as various safety equipment.Japan Launchwas in 2015, but deliveries of the model equipped with the highly efficient new generation four-cylinder diesel engine began in March 2016.

There are three models in the diesel engine lineup.

XE 20d Pure (¥4,970,000)
XE 20d Prestige (¥5,350,000)
XE 20d R Sport (¥5,950,000)

The new generation four-cylinder diesel engine, named Ingenium after the Latin words for engine and engineer, is shared across these three models. It produces a maximum output of 180 horsepower (132kW) and a maximum torque of 430Nm from its 1,999cc displacement. While sharing blocks with the gasoline engine, it features the latest control technologies, such as Bosch's common rail fuel injection system, to achieve a balance of power and fuel efficiency.

All three models are equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. Standard equipment includes Autonomous Emergency Braking, Torque Vectoring by Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Jaguar Drive Control, and a touchscreen 7-inch DVD navigation system. Jaguar's policy in Japan is not to differentiate key equipment across models, according to Jaguar Land Rover Japan.

The "Pure" features 17-inch wheels, cloth seat upholstery, and gloss black finishers for the dashboard. The "Prestige" has redesigned 17-inch wheels, leather seats, standard floor mats, and a dashboard finish combining gloss black and brushed aluminum. Sports suspension is available as an option.

The "R Sport" model tested comes standard with 18-inch wheels, perforated leather sports seats, a dashboard finish with etched aluminum and gloss black, and sports suspension.

The Jaguar XE 20d R Sport was a wonderfully sporty and enjoyable model.

Captivating Once You Drive It

The Jaguar XE 20d R Sport is positioned at the top of the diesel engine lineup. While it can be seen as having a slightly different direction than the "Pure" or "Prestige" due to its sport line designation, the XE itself is positioned as a sports saloon, making this model a true embodiment of its character. Indeed, after driving this car, I was completely captivated by the XE's charm.

The Ingenium diesel unit, like that introduced in the new Jaguar "XF",

My impression upon experiencing it was one of admiration for its refinement. There was virtually no knocking sound characteristic of diesel engines audible inside the cabin. Furthermore, the smoothness of its acceleration from a standstill was comparable to a gasoline engine. The ample torque in the low-RPM range is undoubtedly a diesel characteristic, but the responsive turbocharger then takes over, delivering further power. The seamless transition is masterfully executed, making the acceleration so smooth that you question if it's truly a diesel.

Among current diesel engines, Volvo's four-cylinder, which effectively incorporates Denso's control technology, is outstanding. However, experiencing the XE makes one feel that Jaguar is by no means inferior. In fact, I previously test drove it overseas against Jaguar's traditional V6 diesel, and the Ingenium diesel surpassed it in refinement, including its smooth rotational characteristics and quietness. While its official fuel economy is announced as 17.1 km/liter (JC08 mode), I achieved similar figures even when driving at a good pace on the winding roads of Ise-Shima. This was also quite impressive.

The sports suspension offers the benefits of precise steering and responsive body control, while having no negative impact on ride comfort. The dampers move finely, meticulously absorbing road imperfections, and the springs provide a surprisingly comfortable ride. The premium ride quality makes it a worthy competitor to its German rivals. When the "Sport" mode is selected via Jaguar Drive Control, which also includes settings for fuel efficiency such as shift timing control, the R Sport truly reveals its capabilities. Along with its distinctive interior ambiance, its unique character shines through.

The Jaguar XE also boasts a wealth of appealing features.

A Wealth of Variations, True to its British Heritage

Currently, particularly in the luxury car market, there's a sense of competition between German and British manufacturers. While German cars traditionally focus on creating a sense of quality within an all-black aesthetic, British cars excel at crafting a more vibrant and luxurious atmosphere. The Jaguar XE is no exception, offering a delightful experience of British automotive charm.

The appeal of the XE, including the diesel models tested here, lies in its extensive range of choices. For instance, there are 18 exterior paint colors available. The engine lineup is also rich, offering not only diesel but also 2-liter 4-cylinder gasoline and 3-liter V6 gasoline engines, allowing drivers to enjoy different driving characteristics. Impressively, even within the 20d trim alone, there are three distinct models available, showcasing the attention to detail in equipment options.

The XE 20d R Design driven here featured a visually uplifting specification, which is also noteworthy. The two-tone black and red color scheme for the seats accentuates the model's character. The dashboard also features red parallel stitching, matching the seats. The sport-designed steering wheel, with its subtle indentations at the 9 and 15 o'clock positions, is another welcome feature for drivers of this car.

The rising rotary gear selector that emerges when the engine is started is a signature Jaguar feature. Jaguar Cars often emphasizes the concept of a car having a 'life of its own,' and this is an '演出' (performance/staging) that aligns with that concept. There's auditory staging with a pleasant, crisp exhaust note, visual staging with lighting in colors like red to enhance the mood, and tactile staging with supple leather. While these elements are also functionally considered, they serve to delight the occupants in various ways.

The Jaguar XE 20d is sure to be a wonderful partner, no matter where you go. If you tailor it to your preferred specifications, you might find it hard to part with.

Jaguar XE 20d R Sport
Body Dimensions: Length 4,680 x Width 1,850 x Height 1,415 mm
Wheelbase: 2,835 mm
Vehicle Weight: 1,660 kg
Engine: 1,999 cc Inline 4-cylinder Turbo Diesel
Maximum Output: 132 kW (180 ps) / 4,000 rpm
Maximum Torque: 430 Nm / 1,750-2,500 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed Automatic
Drivetrain: FR
0-100 km/h Acceleration: 7.8 seconds
Maximum Speed: 228 km/h
Fuel Economy (JC08 Mode): 17.1 km/ℓ
CO2 Emissions: 109-111 g/km
Tires: 325/55R22
Price: ¥5,490,000