2019 Jaguar XE range gains athletic R-Dynamic pair

Jaguar has added a brace of new R-Dynamic variants to its XE luxo sedan range, bringing a significant dose of technology borrowed from its I-Pace and F-Type siblings, wrapped up in a more athletic look.

Priced from $65,670 before on-road costs, the R-Dynamic SE is positioned about the middle of the XE range, which now extends to 13 variants, offering a more ‘performance-focused’ option, says Jaguar. The more generously equipped HSE kicks off from $71,940.

Aesthetically, the mid-sized executive sedan has been treated to a significant update, with a new bodykit featuring a revised front bumper with larger vents and a more purposeful looking rear valence that houses twin tailpipes.

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Full LED headlights and new tail-light clusters complement the exterior changes, along with 18-inch wheels, while the HSE rolls on 19s.

Inside, there are more significant changes to both visual and technological features. Interiors are ‘all-new’ according to Jaguar and adopt finer quality materials such as soft-touch and premium veneers, while storage options have been boosted.

A revised centre console adopts the Sportshift gear selector and Jaguardrive Control switchgear from the F-Type sportscar, while the all-electric I-Pace SUV lends the updated XE its extensive digital displays.

Optionally replacing conventional gauges, the instrument cluster can now be upgraded to a customisable 12.3-inch digital screen, complemented by another pair of Touch Pro Duo screens in the HSE for adjusting climate and comfort settings, as well as the now enhanced entertainment systems.

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There’s more I-Pace technology lifted for the steering wheel, which shares the same hidden-until-lit graphics and tactile switches, broadening the control options for the driver. Android Auto/Apple Carplay, wireless device charging and digital radio are also included in the deal.

Also enhancing driver assistance and safety is a new Clearsight rear-view mirror, which uses a rear-facing camera for an unobscured view of the road behind the car, and a high-definition, multi-colour head-up display are also available optionally.

Opt for the more expensive HSE and owners will get even more safety systems including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency braking that works at high speeds as well as lower about-town speed.

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Other HSE extras include a high-end Meridian sound system, electric steering column adjustment and electric front seats with 18-way electric adjustment.

Power comes courtesy of the same 2.0-litre turbo Ingenium engine that powers other 30t variants in the line-up and sends 221kW and 400Nm to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard. Zero to 100km/h acceleration takes 5.9 seconds.