2017 Jaguar XE 20d and XE 35t models confirmed for the U.S.

Jaguar has provided a few more official details about the American-specification version of its new compact sport sedan that was formally unveiled in London last fall and will roll into showrooms here next spring. Based on JLR’s all-new modular platform architecture, the aluminum-intensive 2017 Jaguar XE will offer buyers the choice of ultra-sophisticated turbodiesel and gasoline engines as well as Premium, Prestige and R-Sport trims and rear-drive/all-wheel-drive configurations.

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The econo leader of this new Cat Pack is the 2017 Jaguar XE 20d. Motivation will come from the new 2.0-liter/4-cylinder turbodiesel engine – the first example of Jag’s new advanced Ingenium family to be sold here – that makes 180 horsepower and 318 lb-ft of torque.  For those seeking a bit more intensity, the Jaguar XE 35t packs the same 3.0-liter supercharged V6 found in the F-Type and here too is tuned to develop 340 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of peak twist.

Both of these XE engines will be backed by an 8-speed automatic transmission – which will be paddle-shiftable on the XE 35t. Jaguar offered no performance specs on the XE 20d, but did note the XE 35t can sprint from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds and reach an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. Our recent encounter with a Euro-spec version of the V6 model made it abundantly clear that Jag’s new family member also possesses handling chops to match its exhilarating quickness. Both versions will supplement a comprehensive range of active/passive safety systems with the firm’s new All Surface Progress Control that interfaces throttle and braking functions between 2-19 mph to ensure optimum traction even under the worst surface conditions.

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As Jag confirmed earlier, the 2017 XE will offer the latest Jaguar InControl infotainment system that features an 8.0-inch center touchscreen as well as a selection of downloadable apps, SD-card based navigation, Bluetooth/USB and Wi-Fi hotspot/Internet connectivity, smartphone-assisted remote functionality plus a pair of premium Meridian audio systems. It also will be available with a host of Jaguar Intelligent Active Driver Assistance technologies including a trick head-up display, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, closing-vehicle sensing, reverse traffic detection and semi-automated parallel/perpendicular parking. Pricing, additional packaging details and official EPA stats will be announced closer to the 2017 Jaguar XE’s official on-sale date.

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