September unveil for Jaguar XE 16 | 07 | 2014
THE ALL-NEW JAGUAR XE saloon, designed by Scot Ian Callum, will be officially unveiled in London on September 8. And for the first time, the company has revealed technical details of the car which it will pitch directly against the BMW 3-series.
Boasting double wishbone front suspension made from aluminium — and inspired by the F-type — Jaguar says the XE will “combine thrilling performance, agile handling and precise, responsive steering, with outstanding levels of refinement”. The new suspension system will also deliver stiffness levels equivalent to the larger XFR sports saloon.
The rear suspension in the XE is an integral link set-up that also uses aluminium extensively.
Related: Green light for Jaguar F-Type Project 7
Based on a new lightweight aluminium architecture, the XE will be powered by the firm’s new Ingenium engine range. In addition, it'll feature a latest-generation electric steering system, which Jaguar says offers greater tuning scope than a hydraulic system and has the potential to “deliver better-quality feel”.
The Jaguar XE will also deliver a first in its class when it introduces ‘All Surface Progress Control’, an advanced traction control system that “works like a low-speed cruise control to deliver optimum traction in the most slippery conditions without skidding and without the driver using the pedals”.
“We are on target to deliver a vehicle that dynamically outperforms our rivals,” Jaguar chassis guru Mike Cross said.
Related: Jaguar and Lexus top survey
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Jim McGill