IT MAY barely make a blip on the sales charts, but the suave and sophisticated Jaguar XE has remained one of our all-time favourite mid-size sports sedans since it sauntered into the BMW 3 Series’ segment some four years ago.

Back then, there were a bewildering proliferation of Ford-engined choices, but the Series II facelift brings the best bits together in an updated and improved package offered in just two (instead of 14!) guises, for the driver who wants an involving and rewarding experience.

Yes, flaws remain, but the result is a characterful and immersive alternative that still stands tall with the class best – even after all these years.