Jaguar knew that while it did get the driving experience right in its XE baby executive sedan, there were many other areas that could have been significantly improved. Now that the time has come for the XE’s midlife cycle refresh, the automaker has addressed these concerns and now promises its smallest three-box model is far more well-rounded and just better overall.

2020 Jaguar XE Gets Fresh Styling, Better Interior, No Entry-Level Oil Burner

While nobody complained about how the XE drove (it's one of the sharpest to drive in its class, yet at the same time it’s also very comfortable), many people didn’t like the interior. Not only was it cramped, but materials quality really left a lot to be desired and assembly quality wasn’t outstanding either. On the outside, the car did have a great overall shape, but it didn’t look as good as it could because of the design of its light clusters that just looked a bit too big.

Now the automaker has addressed this with the 2020 Jaguar XE by slimming down both front and rear light clusters, and this has a dramatic effect on how the car looks. Up front, there’s also a redesigned grille, and the car gets new bumpers front and back.

Jaguar is also keen to talk about how the 2020 XE's interior offers "more comfort, quality, and connectivity for all occupants.” The automaker goes on to say that “every aspect of the cabin has been enhanced for increased convenience, improved stowage and better passenger comfort.”

The steering wheel is also new and much more pleasant to look at than before. The selector for the automatic transmission is different too. Gone is the rotary knob, and in its place, Jaguar has put what it calls the SportShift selector, which is shared with the F-Type Coupe.

As part of the refresh, the XE is now fitted with Jaguar’s Touch Pro Duo infotainment system, also seen in the I-Pace (although it actually debuted on the Range Rover Velar). The system has two screens that change depending on the selected function. Not only does it look futuristic, but it’s also quite easy and intuitive to operate.

Under the revised XE’s hood, Jaguar has ditched the entry-level diesel. There is now only one oil burner - a 2.0-liter with 178 horsepower. Jag says this revised diesel produces 15 percent less CO2 than the gasoline engine and about the same level of NOx. The singular 2.0-liter gasoline engine is offered in two states of tune, with 247 horsepower and 296 horsepower. All engines come with a standard eight-speed automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive is still available.

This heavily revised 2020 Jaguar XE will bow at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, but you can already order one. In the UK, prices start at £33,915.

Further Reading

Read our full speculative review on the 2020 Jaguar XE.

Read our full review on the current Jaguar XE.

Read our full review on the 2018 Jaguar XE SV Project 8.