Jaguar XE Prestige

The Jaguar XE Prestige represents the mid-range variant of the compact executive saloon. It features an equipment list that will entice many, with the higher Jaguar XE R-Sport and Jaguar XE S models appealing more to enthusiasts and those who have a bigger budget.

It's fair to say that the Prestige model is probably the best all-rounder in the range, as it still features the XE's economical diesel engines and a 197bhp petrol. The most fuel-efficient engine in the range is the 160bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine when it's equipped with a manual gearbox, as Jaguar claims that it can return up to 75mpg. That figure outperforms the latest BMW 3 Series' statistics, as its EfficientDynamics model is capable of up to 72.4mpg. Other than that, there's a more powerful 177bhp diesel which still performs impressively at 67.3mpg, even with the eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Like any XE, the Prestige model still comes with a good level of equipment. Highlights include heated leather seats, Jaguar's InControl infotainment system with satellite navigation and DAB radio, rear parking sensors and interior mood lighting. The Prestige also has the range of safety kit seen on the rest of the XE range, as lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition and autonomous emergency braking are all standard too.

Good points

In Prestige specification, the XE probably offers the best value for money for the amount of equipment you get. Considering it's a mid-range car, you still get luxuries like full leather seats and satellite navigation, along with loads of safety equipment. Even without the sports suspension seen in higher-end models, the XE is still a very good car to drive. So much so that we think it gives the class leader, the BMW 3 Series, a real run for its money in terms of driving enjoyment.The interior of the XE is a very plush place to be. The materials throughout are of a very high grade and build quality is impressive.

Bad points

As more of a general point about the XE than a particular issue with the Prestige model, the car's practicality levels don't quite match the likes of the BMW 3 Series or Audi A4. The boot is marginally smaller and the transmission tunnel eats into the middle rear passenger legroom.Like the R-Sport trim above it, the cheapest option is the 2.0-litre petrol engine, which is the least economical out of the Prestige's engine choices. That makes it a compromised option.

What you get

• Alloy wheels
• Folding rear seats
• Alarm
• Rear parking sensors
• Tyre pressure sensors
• Passenger & Driver airbag
• Front side airbags
• Curtain airbags
• Auto climate control
• Full leather seats
• Leather steering wheel
• Height adjustable driver's seat
• Electric driver's seat
• Heated front seats
• Front electric windows
• AUX stereo input
• DAB Radio
• Cruise control
• Sat nav
• Stop/Start
• Automatic wipers
• Rear electric windows
• Bluetooth

Our choice

In this specification, the smallest 160bhp 2.0-litre diesel will be more than enough. It offers great fuel economy of up to 75mpg and its emissions of 99g/km means free road tax, when fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox. The automatic provides bonus ease of driving points, but is more expensive to buy and lowers fuel economy.