In 2015, Jaguar had nothing that could really take on the Audi A4, BMW 3-Series or Mercedes C-Class. The brand was missing out on a potentially very profitable market sector.
Something had to be done, so the firm developed its very own compact executive machine to take on the German brands. And it was a success, because it offered something uniquely ‘Jaguarey’.
It was good to drive, stylish, very well equipped and competitively priced, all of which makes this vehicle an absolute bargain if you’re in the market for a used tow car that is also an exec machine. However, it isn’t perfect…
What’s a used Jaguar XE like inside?
The Jaguar XE has always tried to offer a sporty option in the compact executive marketplace, but the key word in this sentence is ‘compact’. So while it feels like it’s wrapped around you, the reality is less good if you’re in the rear seats.
The roofline slopes towards the rear, which means that headroom isn’t great, and you’ll need to take care not to bump your head on the way in or out.
The people up front will at least have some legroom to afford those behind, as the front legroom is reasonable. You might want to avoid cars with a sunroof, though – this can restrict the headroom.
The boot is on the small side when it comes to carrying holiday luggage, although it is up to the usual weekly shopping.
Nevertheless, the interior feels as though it has been screwed together by people who care, and the standard kit is good.
Base-spec SEs come with cruise control, dual-zone climate control, and automatic lights and wipers. Prestige adds heated front seats, Sport brings sports seats and xenon lights, and top-spec Portfolios get electrically adjustable seats and high-end audio. Don’t forget a pair of the best caravan mirrors for when you’re towing either!
How does a used Jaguar XE drive?
The Jaguar is genuinely entertaining to drive – the steering is sharp, and the car responds quickly and grips strongly.
We would advise going for a model fitted with standard suspension, instead of the firmer sport suspension.
Before 2019, there were a few diesels available, but the 161bhp version provides plenty of torque for when the car is towing. Post-2019, the diesel range was reduced to a solitary engine with 178bhp, and then in 2020 this was replaced by a diesel with mild-hybrid assistance and 201bhp. These are all LEZ compliant.
As a tow car, the XE remains rock solid, either in a straight line or in rapid lane changes, although the long gearing means you sometimes need to use a lower gear than you might think. But the diesel engine can be a bit too loud for comfort.
If you’ve been thinking about a diesel option for your next car, see what our expert has to say when he considers should you be buying a diesel tow car or not.
What will a used Jaguar XE tow?
A sensible car/caravan match is always going to be important.
- Kerbweight: 1475kg
- Towing limit: 1600kg
- Noseweight limit: 75kg
- 85% match: 1254kg
Running costs
- Insurance group: 27
- Annual VED: £190
- Average economy: 75.0mpg
- Full service: £199
- Servicing price supplied by Servicing Stop, 0844 324 5262,
Trouble spots
Some early cars were recalled for faulty seatbelt pretensioners. Then 28,176 cars had to return to dealers for an emissions software update. A faulty diesel fuel cooler caused another recall.
Glitchy instrument clusters affected 8314 cars, and a faulty low-pressure fuel feed hose affected 16,673 cars.
Incorrect fuel return hoses caused 3090 models to return to dealers.
A full list of recalls can be found at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk.
What to pay for a used Jaguar XE
- High: price: £37,900; model: 2023 2.0 P300i R-Dynamic HSE; miles: 6500
- Sweet spot: price: £24,000; model: 2021 2.0d D200 R-Dynamic; miles: 33,500
- Low: price: £3300; model: 2015 2.0d Prestige; miles: 114,000
Verdict
The Jaguar XE is a strong tow car that will remain unflustered by the caravan behind it. However, it’s also tight on space, for people and their belongings, and the diesel engine can be a bit of a noisy companion.
If you’ve settled on a pre-owned option, check out our guide to where to buy a used car to ensure you’re purchasing yours from the right place.
Alternatives to consider
Mercedes C-Class (2014-2021)
Mercedes ploughs its own furrow in the compact exec class, and that furrow has comfort at its core. So the C-Class is the sort of car that takes all of the strain out of long trips by being refined and comfortable. The C-Class also offers great cabin space, and is a stable diesel tow car. The diesel engine can be a little noisy when it is working hard, though.
Audi A4 (2015-present)
The current Audi A4 might be getting on a bit, but it still makes a great tow car. For a start, it has a huge range of petrol and diesel engines, and it’s available with two- or four-wheel drive. It also has one of the best interiors in the class, if not the best. It’s superbly built, contains all the tech you’re likely to need, and has an enormous boot.
BMW 3-Series (2019-present)
The BMW 3-Series is like that annoying kid in school who’s good at everything. It’s great to drive, roomy and efficient, has loads of tech, and looks good. We would advise going for the diesel 320d, but stay away from M Sport models, because these have a suspension set-up that’s really just a little too firm for comfort.
Are you looking for ways to keep your vehicle secure when you’re away from it? Take a look at our guide to car security to find our top hints and tips.
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