Jaguar XE Portfolio (Diesel)

The Jaguar XE Portfolio diesel is a significant addition to the XE lineup, addressing the demand for a diesel variant in the Indian market. Powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium diesel engine, it produces 180PS and 430Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission. The car boasts a sporty persona, with a responsive steering and a well-balanced chassis that makes it enjoyable on both city roads and winding highways. The interior is premium, featuring a speedboat-style cowl on the dashboard, dual-zone climate control, and a touchscreen infotainment system. While the rear space is somewhat limited, the overall comfort and features make it a desirable option. The XE also comes with various drive modes, including Dynamic and Eco, which cater to different driving styles. With its unique design, robust performance, and exclusive badge, the Jaguar XE Portfolio diesel is a strong contender in the luxury sedan segment.

The Jaguar XE Portfolio diesel is a compelling option in the luxury sedan segment, particularly for those who value exclusivity and a sporty driving experience. While the 2.0-litre Ingenium diesel engine may not be as punchy as its petrol counterpart, it delivers admirable performance with 180PS and 430Nm of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission works seamlessly, and the cars dynamics, including its responsive steering and balanced chassis, make it a joy to drive. However, the rear space is limited, and the fuel efficiency, though decent, is not as impressive as some of its competitors. Despite these minor drawbacks, the XE diesel ticks most of the boxes for a luxury sedan, making it a solid choice for those seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and premium appeal.

Production of the Jaguar XE, including its diesel variants, has officially come to an end at the Castle Bromwich plant in Birmingham. This move is part of Jaguars transition to an all-electric brand, with new EV models set to replace the combustion-engine lineup. The last few unsold models, including some diesel versions, are still available at full price. I believe this marks the end of an era for Jaguars combustion-engine sedans, and it will be interesting to see how their electric lineup is received.

The 2024 Jaguar XE, in its final years, still offers refined and economical diesel engines. These engines have been praised for their real-world efficiency and performance. However, with Jaguars focus shifting to electric vehicles, the XE is one of the last combustion-engine models available before the brands full transition. I think the XEs diesel engines are a great option for those looking for a traditional driving experience before the electric era takes over.

In 2020, Jaguar updated its model lineup, including the XE, by dropping the V-6 and diesel engines in some markets. However, in other regions, the diesel option remained available. This update reflected Jaguars broader strategy to offer more electrified options while still catering to markets where diesel engines are popular. I believe this move showed Jaguars adaptability to different market demands before their full shift to electric vehicles.

The Jaguar XE, launched in 2015, was a significant model for Jaguar as it marked a return to a rear-driven saloon after the Ford Mondeo-based X-Type. The XE was available with a range of engines, including a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel four-cylinder, which was praised for its performance and efficiency. I think the XEs diesel option was a strong contender in the compact luxury sedan segment.

In India, the Jaguar XE Portfolio diesel is priced at around Rs 43.21 lakh for the top-spec Portfolio trim (ex-showroom). When you factor in the on-road costs, including taxes and other charges, the price can escalate to approximately Rs 50-55 lakh, depending on the state and local taxes. This pricing positions the XE competitively against its rivals such as the BMW 3 Series 320d and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class C220d. While it may seem pricey, the exclusivity of the Jaguar badge and the cars overall package make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a unique luxury sedan experience.

The mileage of the Jaguar XE Portfolio diesel is a crucial factor for many buyers. In my experience, the car manages to deliver around 13 kmpl in mixed driving conditions, which is decent but not outstanding compared to some of its competitors. However, the start-stop feature and the efficient Ingenium engine help in improving fuel efficiency, making it a reasonable choice for those concerned about running costs.