Jaguar's new XE sports saloon eyes the compact executive car segment

After a string of teases, the rear-wheel driven Jaguar XE has been finally revealed, bringing with it an advanced lightweight construction, streamlined styling, a luxurious interior and what Jaguar claims as an outstanding ride and handling. The aluminium intensive Jaguar XE is the first model developed from a new modular vehicle architecture, which has blessed the feline with short front overhangs, longer rear overhangs and a dynamic stance.

The XE sports saloon goes for commercial sale next year with the high-performance S model (revealed yesterday) at the top of the range.

The XE S gains large front air intakes, chrome side vents, discreet rear spoiler and optional 20-inch forged alloy wheels that hint at the performance potential of Jaguar's supercharged lump.

Technical fabrics, fine-grain leathers and details such as contrasting twin-needle stitching provide the cabin a bespoke quality. The choice of gloss black, textured aluminium, and contemporary wood veneers enhance the luxurious, hand crafted feel while ambient lighting - available in a range of up to 10 colours - adds to the sense of occasion.

The instrument dials in the cabin are inspired by the F-TYPE and the cluster needle sweep up on start-up to further emphasise the XE's sporty attributes. The laser Head-Up Display (HUD) technology provides the driver with information such as speed and navigation instructions with maximum clarity and minimum distraction.

The new XE introduces Meridian audio technology to the segment and was developed specifically for the new XE. Unique algorithms guarantee the best possible sound reproduction and tailor the experience to the interior's acoustics.

The XE is the first car in the world to be equipped with All Surface Progress Control (ASPC). This all new system, works like a low speed cruise control and functions between 3.6km/h and 30km/h.

The system precisely controls the brake system and the powertrain to deliver optimum traction in the most slippery conditions without skidding and without the driver using the pedals.

Jaguar is one of the first manufacturers in the segment to use stereo camera technology to provide highly accurate measurements of speed and distance of objects ahead, and can initiate full braking to avoid or mitigate a collision.

The XE S is powered by a supercharged 3.0-litre V6 power unit - lifted from the F-TYPE - which generates 335bhp and 450Nm of torque. The power unit is linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shift controls - and accomplishes the benchmark century sprint in 5.1 seconds before rising to an electronically limited top speed of 249km/h.

The XE S will be joined by other models powered by a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines married to a six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic transmissions. The diesels - part of Jaguar's all new Ingenium engine family - return 31.9km/L while emitting just 99g/km.