2020 Jaguar XE

Pros: Excellent balance of ride quality and handling prowess; wide selection of upholstery and trim choices; responsive engine and transmission

Cons: Rear-seat room is tight; limited trunk space and small-items storage; so-so rear visibility

CG Says: The 2020 Jaguar XE has refreshed styling inside and out. The XE drops its supercharged V6 and diesel engine options, but gains new features. A camera rearview mirror, wireless cell-phone charging, and an upgraded infotainment system are newly available. Leather upholstery, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto functionality, driver-condition monitor, and LED headlights are now standard. Jaguar re-entered the premium-compact car field for 2017 with the XE sport sedan. The sole engine is turbo 2.0-liter 4-cylinder available in 247-horsepower and a 296-hp versions. All XEs have an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 247-hp version comes in rear- and all-wheel drive form and all-wheel drive is standard with the 296-hp engine. XE uses Jaguar’s aluminum-intensive body structure to save weight for better fuel economy and driving dynamics. Available safety and technology features include adaptive shock absorbers, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, traffic-sign recognition, and a head-up display that shows both speed and navigation readings on the lower part of the windshield. The XE was Jaguar’s first compact car in almost a decade, and it’s a compelling entry in the segment. The XE offers a distinctive luxury/performance character, a good selection of available trim options, and a suitably athletic driving personality—all at prices that are very competitive with its primary rivals, the BMW 3-Series and Audi A4.