[Jaguar XE News]

At least that’s the case when it comes to Jaguar’s new AWD R Sport XE. It has much to offer the world but, AutoCar thinks the rear wheel drive version is more fun to drive and the better deal (unless you live somewhere with heavy snowfall).

Though it’s not as crucial to the brand’s future as the Porsche-fighting F-Type, the Jaguar XE R‑Sport was still developed with performance in mind to compete against the Audi A4 2.0 TDI 190 quattro and BMW 320d xDrive. Equipped with 180 horsepower 2.0 4 cylinder diesel engine and paired with an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox, the engine is capable is sending 317lb ft or torque to all four wheels.

Of course, there are trade-offs when you switch from rear wheel drives to all wheels drives like an increase in weight, CO2 emissions and decrease in fuel economy but even after taking these hits, the XE’s figures are still good enough to compete with BMW and Audi.

While it should be sending power to all four wheel, the XE’s drive system is rear wheel biased which means most of the time the XE is functioning as a RWD vehicle until the back axle starts to slip a bit. At that time, 50% of the power will be shifted towards the front for more traction.

This isn’t necessarily a bad thing since you’re still getting additional traction and the XE will feel controlled at high speeds or when it’s taken around those curvy roads.

In the publication’s opinion, the same engine but in RWD is a better choice for those of you who don’t see regular snowfall. To them, the RWD variant is just “quicker, cheaper, easier on fuel and more enjoyable to drive.”

What does everyone think?

 

[Kingpin]

IMO the only time RWD is better is when you want a more exciting driving experience since your able to break the tires loose, throw the rear end out a bit and overall not have a driving experience that is as controlled as AWD is. But that's just me.

 

[Edge]

To them, the RWD variant is just “quicker, cheaper, easier on fuel and more enjoyable to drive.”

That pretty much sums it all up. AWD is more driver friendly and a great aid in the winter time.

 

[Edge]

It's really all just personal preference. What some people find comfortable, others don't. I find a bit of a stiffer ride is comfortable for me, others want to feel like they're gliding on a cloud.

 

[CarolineMay]

RWD is better anyway bro

are you sure about it?

 

[brandycoup]

are you sure about it?

do you want to argue?