Jaguar XE-R Targets BMW M3
The new Jaguar XE won’t stop with just competing against the BMW 3 Series.
In hopes of boosting the brand’s reputation, the British automaker is working on a Jaguar XE-R model that will take on the likes of BMW’s M division and Mercedes-Benz’s AMG models. At launch, the Jaguar XE’s most powerful model will be the V6 S which offers 335 hp, but that won’t be enough to entice shoppers that want plenty of performance to go with their luxury. That means the Jaguar XE-R won’t use the F-Type S’s V6 since that’ll be less than the M3’s 425 hp, instead expect it to be outfitted with the F-Type roadster’s V8 pushing 488 hp.
SEE ALSO: 2017 Jaguar XE Powertrain Details Released
According to Autocar, Jaguar sources have confirmed the V8 is easier to integrate into the XE’s engine bay than Jaguar Land Rover’s own Ingenium four-cylinder diesel engine. To boost the Jaguar XE-R’s performance outside from just horsepower, torque and 0-60 times, expect it to get retuned suspension while the eight-speed automatic transmission will also be altered for more aggressive shifts in manual mode.
Best of all, the introduction of the Jaguar XE-R means the automaker’s Special Vehicle Operations division will be able to create an even hotter model that borrows the 542-hp V8 found in the F-Type R coupe.
[Source: Autocar]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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Jaguar should go after the BMW M2!! it's so easy. it's low hanging fruit. BMW hobbled the M2 down to a laughable 365HP just to protect the M4. Talk about "underkill" AUDI TTRS and S3 owners rejoice!