► How to spec your Jaguar XE
► A guide to all the options, specs involved
► Here’s a toppy XE 2.0d auto R-Sport
Baffled by how to spec the perfect new car? Configuators can be a confusing place these days, as manufacturers layer on ever more options, specification packs and extra accessories. Here we look at the new Jaguar XE compact exec and give our verdict on the spec ladder. This example looks at a top-end Jag XE with lots of bells and whistles – but we’ll be looking at more conservative choices in forthcoming Spec Expert stories. Click here to read our Jag XE adventure drive across Europe.
Entry-level XE is the 197bhp 2.0-litre petrol SE. But most buyers will opt for one of the new 2.0-litre Ingenium diesels.
Starting price: £26,995
Jaguar reckons the sweet spot is the 178bhp diesel auto in R-Sport specification. We’re inclined to agree. R-Sport is to Jag what M-Sport is to BMW – including bespoke aggressive looks, 18-inch alloys, sports suspension and bi-xenon headlights.
Running total: £34,775
It might be £1750 more than the six-speed manual, but the eight-speed auto increases convenience and comes with All Surface Progress Control, the rear-wheel drive Jag’s answer to low-grip situations such as snow and ice. Adaptive Dynamics variable rate suspension increases involvement for an extra £800.
Running total: £35,575
Which colours should I spec my Jaguar XE in?
Key colours are dark greys and blues, plus Italian Racing Red (ironic!). Special paints are £620, extra special ones £1200; stick to the former and spend the change on a Black Pack, starting at £500 (chrome replaced with glossy, moody darkness).
Running total: £38,095
In the name of good taste, go for standard all-black leather inside, rather than the two-tone options. Avoid wood trim for the same reason; etched aluminium is fine. Sat-nav, DAB and ‘InControl’ app connectivity for your smartphone are fitted across the range, but £500 on the Meridian hi-fi will be hard to resist.
Running total: £38,595
Finally, more packs! Power Convenience (£900): keyless go, powered bootlid, extra 12v sockets. Highway Tech (£2610): head-up display, blind-spot monitor. Cold Climate (£525): heated screen/washer jets/steering wheel. Parking (£530): for front sensors/rear camera.
Final total: £42,660
And that all comes to…
Total price: £42,660
Do you agree? Play with the Jaguar XE configurator here and tell us how you would spec your perfect Jag XE.
