Jaguar XE production commences at new Solihull factory

Jaguar marked the return to the compact entry-level luxury segment last year by unveiling the all-new XE. Set to go up against the likes of the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4 amongst others, the new Jaguar XE production has finally commenced in JLR’s brand new Solihull plant. The Jaguar XE will be made on an all-new aluminium platform and will feature a range of petrol and diesel engines.

The engines will include a 2.0-litre Ingenium four-cylinder diesel engine with two outputs, one making 163PS and 380Nm of torque, the other making 180PS and 430Nm of torque. A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol with outputs of 200PS and 280Nm of torque as well as 240PS and 340Nm of torque will also power the XE. The top of the line 2015 Jaguar XE will feature a supercharged 3.0-litre V6 engine with 340PS and 450Nm of torque.

The Solihull plant where the XE will be built is a 1.65 lakh square meter facility with Europe’s largest aluminium body shop. The plant with all its recent development is also one of the largest growing manufacturing facility in the UK. The arrival of the XE at the Solihull manufacturing plant is significant for both the Jaguar and Land Rover brands. Renowned for producing some of the world’s most iconic saloon cars in history, the advent of XE production at Solihull marks a key milestone for Jaguar, in this, its 80th year.

Speaking on the occasion, Solihull Operations Director, Alan Volkaerts said, "The arrival of the new Jaguar XE marks a new chapter in the history of this plant and showcases the flexibility of our manufacturing operation thanks to a strategic investment in aluminium technologies and infrastructure.  I speak on behalf of the whole team when I say what an incredible privilege it is to be producing not one, but two of the world’s best loved motoring brands.”