Major Jaguar XE facelift announced for 2019

The facelifted Jaguar XE has been announced with some significant changes, particularly to the inside of the car. Sales of the XE have almost halved in the UK since the car’s launch in 2015, pushing Jaguar to make some changes to keep the car competitive against the likes of the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series. Prices start at £33,915 and the car is available to order now.

The exterior of the Jaguar XE remains familiar but has had a mild refresh. Changes include a reshaped grille and a new bumper with beefier air intakes. The most obvious alteration is the headlights, as the XE now sports the sleeker LED J-blade versions. Scrolling indicators are included as standard.

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The XE’s engine options have been streamlined. Jaguar is keeping it simple with two 2.0-litre petrols, one with 247bhp the second with 296bhp, and a 178bhp 2.0-litre diesel. An eight-speed automatic is paired with all engine options. Jaguar has also revised the trim structure, so that there is now a standard and R-Dynamic trim, with the S, SE and HSE pack options available for each one.

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Jaguar has taken some of the best bits of newer models and combined them to improve the XE’s interior. The steering wheel and infotainment system, including the 10.2-inch screen, have been taken off the I-Pace, and the gearleaver is from the F-Type. An optional extra already seen on the new Range Rover Evoque is the rear view mirror, which uses a rear-facing camera on the roof to display the road behind.

To complete the makeover inside, the facelifted XE benefits from more soft touch plastics and luxury leather upholstery options. A variety of different trim materials remain available as options, including wood, metal and carbon fibre. The updated Jaguar XE is available to buy now, with prices starting from £33,915.

Read up on the Jaguar XE’s rivals, the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series and the category-topping Mercedes C-Class.