The Jaguar XE has been spotted testing on Indian roads ahead of its showcase, and possible launch, at the Delhi Auto Expo in February this year.
Based on the spy-shots, the XE being tested seems to be a base model since it's not equipped with LED daytime running lights and xenon head-lamps.
Expected to compete against the likes of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, BMW 3-Series, Volvo S60, and Audi A4, the Jaguar XE is expected to come in in completely knock-down (CKD) form rather than as a completely built up (CBU) unit for better pricing flexibility.
The XE is Jaguar's most affordable offering currently sold in its range internationally, and boasts of several next-gen features including lightweight 75 per cent aluminium chassis architecture, InControl Touch Pro infotainment system, and one of the most appealing exterior designs in its segment. In fact, the Jaguar XE was awarded the Most Beautiful Car of 2014 at the Festival Automobile International held in Paris.
Also Read: Jaguar XE Review
Reports suggest that the XE will be available with multiple 2.0-litre, 4-pot engine tunes in both petrol and diesel variants. The petrol engines are expected to churn out either 197bhp or 237bhp whereas the diesel outputs stand at either 161bhp or 177.5bhp, depending on the state of tune of the engine. A Jaguar F-Type-sourced 3.0-litre, V6 powertrain capable of delivering 335bhp is also offered on the XE S variant internationally. As yet, it's still unclear which powertrains will first be offered in India.
The BMW 3-Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class are considered to be front-runners in the luxury sedan segment and the Jaguar XE has a tough task ahead if it is to displace them from the top. With more and more competitors entering the segment, pricing the XE correctly will play a huge part in deciding its fortunes in India. The sedan is expected to cost somewhere in the range of Rs. 35-45 lakh.
Also Read: JLR to Launch All-New Jaguar XE on Feb 3; Bookings Open
Besides the Jaguar XE premium sedan, the Tata-owned British luxury carmaker will also be showcasing its upcoming F-Pace SUV and the next generation Jaguar XF sedan.
(Image Courtesy: autocarindia.com)
