By Staff Reporter

Jaguar is giving its XE model enhanced exterior design, tweaked interior and advanced technologies.

It now sits lower while appears to be wider than the model it replaces with larger front apertures, bold graphics and muscular forms.

The front comes with LED headlights with a striking ‘J’ blade daytime running light whereas the rear boast a redesigned bumper and all-LED tail-lights with updated signature graphics.

R-Dynamic models come add an aircraft winglet-inspired sculpted surfaces, dark mesh detailing to the rear valance and alternative wheel styles.

Jump into the cabin, there are sport-seats with contrast stitching, Satin Chrome gearshift paddles and R-Dynamic treadplates.

Shared with the F-TYPE are SportShift gear selector and the JaguarDrive Control switch.

There is also a new steering wheel and for the first time in an XE, a Touch Pro Duo infotainment system borrowed from the new fully-electric I-PACE.

Wireless device charging and clever Smart Settings technology also make their first appearance in the XE.

The new XE is available with a choice of petrol engines; a P250 2.0-litre with 184 kW and P300 221 kW outputs. They both come with an automatic transmission, 18-inch wheels, electric leather seats, all-LED headlights and tail-lights.

Customers can select from S, SE and HSE trim levels, with each also available in sporty R-Dynamic guise.

A range of option packs provide even greater personalisation:

Dynamic Handling Pack: Configurable Dynamics, Adaptive Dynamics, 350mm front Brakes, Coloured Brake Calipers, Bootlid Spoiler

Cold Climate Pack: Heated Windscreen, Heated Steering Wheel, Headlight Washers

Technology Pack: Head-Up Display, Solar Windscreen, Touch Pro Duo, Interactive Driver Display, Wireless Charging, ClearSight Interior rear-view mirror

Convenience Pack: Gesture Bootlid, Keyless Entry, Electric Steering Column Adjustment, Additional Power Sockets

Premium Interior Upgrade Pack: Illuminated Treadplates, Bright Pedals, Configurable Ambient Lighting

The new Jaguar XE will be available in South Africa in the second half of 2019 with pricing to be announced closer to the time of launch.