2016 Jaguar XE S Showcases New Big-cat Sport Sedan

2016 jaguar XE red

Some 15 years (and one ownership change) after the launch of the Ford-friendly X-Type, Jaguar is once again offering up a feline alternative to the BMW 3 Series: the 2016 Jaguar XE, which recently had a full-on rock-star debut on the other side of the Atlantic.

What's being celebrated is a "true driver's car," according to the brand, and that's certainly the case for the range-topping 2016 Jaguar XE S that was introduced in London. While the specs for the rest of the 2016 Jaguar XE portfolio will be introduced along with the vehicles themselves in October, at the Paris Motor Show, Jaguar has confirmed that the XE S will serve up a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 that makes 340 hp and 332 lb.-ft. of torque, with those outputs routed through a lightweight ZF eight-speed automatic. With that output driving a lightweight (3,249 lbs.), highly aerodynamic (0.26 Cd) sport sedan, drivers will see an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph and a 4.9-second 0-60 time.

For comparison's sake, the 2016 Jaguar XE S stacks up against its likely German rivals like this:

• 2016 Jaguar XE S—183.9 inches; 3,249 lbs.; 340 hp/332 lb.-ft.; 0-60 in 4.9 seconds
• Audi S4—185.7 inches; 3,869 lbs; 333 hp/325 lb.-ft.; 0-60 in 4.9 seconds
• BMW 335i—182.5 inches; 3,595 lbs; 300 hp/300 lb.-ft.; 0-60 in 5.1 seconds
• BMW M3—183.9 inches; 3,595 lbs.; 425 hp/406 lb.-ft.; 0-60 in 3.9 seconds
• M-B C400 4MATIC—184.5 inches; 3,583 lb.; 329 hp/354 lb.-ft.; tbd
• M-B CLA45 AMG—184.7 inches; 3,494 lbs.; 355 hp/332 lb.-ft.; 0-60 in 4.4 seconds

NOTE: For comparison, the Mercedes-Benz and Audi vehicle listed above feature standard all-wheel drive.

2016 Jaguar XE Highlights

The 2016 Jaguar XE introduces a new, modular architecture for the brand, as well as a fresh engine family, and will feature:

• All-new infotainment technology, with Jaguar's "InControl" system providing an 8-inch touchscreen, mobile wi-fi capability, Bluetooth, navigation, natural voice recognition and smartphone-enabled remote-control functions
• Meridian audio systems with "unique algorithms [that] guarantee the best possible sound reproduction and tailor the experience" to match the acoustics of the 2016 Jaguar XE
• Numerous active-safety and driver-assistance measures, including a laser head-up display; stereo-camera tech for automatic braking, lane-keeping and traffic sign recognition; and All Surface Progress Control, which can automatically manage low-speed brake and powertrain functions for superior traction
• A predominantly aluminum body that not only saves weight but also reduces the carbon footprint of the 2016 Jaguar XE, by relying on recycled metal

The 2016 Jaguar XE boasts a striking appearance perhaps best described by Ian Callum, director of Design for the company, who said: "Our mission was to create an exciting and dynamic design, clearly reflecting the XE positioning as a serious driver's car. The car-rearward proportions and tight packaging achieve that and give the XE the appearance of movement even when it's standing still. It bears a strong resemblance to the F-TYPE and will stand apart in the crowd."

U.S. drivers can look for the 2016 Jaguar XE to arrive on our shores in 2016.