NEW JAGUAR XE AND XF 300 SPORT REVEALED
It has recently been announced that a few special edition 2019 Jaguar's will receive updates for XE and XF ranges, alongside infotainment upgrades and new trims. Jaguar has gained, in mass, a reputation for being one of the safest cars in the world, and on top of that, arguably some of the most jaw-droppingly beautiful as well.
The Jaguar XE and XF 300 Sport are available to order now, with first deliveries due next month. (Unlike some of the manufacturer's competitors, Volvo usually has a relatively short waiting period).
In addition to the new special editions, Jaguar has fitted every XE and XF with the larger 10-inch Touch Pro infotainment system, as well as extra chrome switchgear, plusher carpets and a new auto-dimming rear-view mirror.
The XE 300 Sport uses the existing 296bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine, capable of 0-62mph in 5.5 seconds and 250km/h flat out – which is seriously quick! Those of you interested in the larger XF 300 Sport get a choice of the same turbo petrol, as well as the torquier 296bhp V6 diesel. The XF 300 Sport is also available in Sportbrake estate guise.
All of these versions get dark satin grey detailing, 300 Sport badging and unique alloy wheels. The XF comes in a choice of three colours: Yulong White, Indus Silver and Santorini Black, while the XE is also offered in Caldera Red. These options are limiting, but seriously, would you really want any other colour?
In the interior, you will find unique yellow stitching on the steering wheel, seats and armrests, as well as branded sills, mats and headrests. Like the now-defunct F-Type 400 Sport, both special editions will only be available for a single model year so, if these extras excite you, best to get the ball rolling.
Full pricing hasn’t been revealed, but Jaguar has confirmed the XE 300 Sport will cost from around £44,755 (ZAR figures have not yet been revealed) – representing around a £3,000 premium over existing Portfolio models. This considered, a similarly-specced XF is likely to start from around £53,500.
In other news, Jaguar has confirmed its intention to remove the range-topping 375bhp 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine from UK price lists. Due to more stringent WLTP emissions criteria and its low sales volumes, it no longer makes financial sense and will be withdrawn from May 2018. Even though diesel options are still available, we suspect that within the next decade diesel engines for road cars will be close to extinction, especially in most European countries.