The Jaguar XE (X760) marks the return of the Coventry firm to the highly contested premium family sedan segment (D-segment), dominated by the Germans (3 Series, C-Class, A4). Based on the new iQ[Al] modular architecture with a high aluminum content (75%), it stands out for its exceptional road handling, precise steering, and elegant design by Ian Callum. However, this first phase (2015-2019) suffered from teething problems: a capricious infotainment system (InControl), interior finishing below Germanic standards, and above all, serious reliability issues on its flagship engine in Europe: the all-new 4-cylinder "Ingenium" diesel block (AJ200D).
The first-generation Jaguar XE is a sedan with fantastic road handling, but it requires a rigorous selection of its engine. If you are targeting the diesel (2.0d Ingenium), the utmost caution is required. This engine suffers from major design flaws (fragile rear timing chain, oil dilution) that can lead to engine failure. Only buy a diesel if the chain has already been replaced with an invoice, if the vehicle has been driven exclusively on the highway, and if oil changes have been done every 10,000 km. On the other hand, the petrol versions (2.0t and especially the melodious 3.0 V6) are much more recommendable and transform the XE into an excellent alternative to German sedans.