BMW 3 Series vs Jaguar XE | Auto Express

Buyers of compact executive saloons have never had it so good. The latest generation of models is the best yet, combining unrivalled premium appeal with engaging driving dynamics and penny-pinching running costs.

• Best executive cars

So this meeting between the BMW 3 Series and the Jaguar XE promises to be a true grudge match.

The stunning XE has already made its mark on the class. With its blend of sleek looks, luxurious interior and impeccable driving manners, the British saloon deservedly scooped compact executive honours at our 2015 New Car Awards.

In the process, it knocked the 3 Series off the top spot it had made its own since the sixth-generation car debuted in 2012.

However, BMW hasn’t taken this defeat lying down, and has pulled the covers off a facelifted version of its evergreen saloon, which celebrates its 40th birthday this year.

By tweaking the car’s looks, revising its engine line-up, upgrading its suspension and adding more kit, BMW believes it has given the 3 Series all it needs to regain its place at the top of the class pecking order. 

So, which of our desirable executives has what it takes to succeed? In an exclusive test on UK roads, we name the winner in one of our hardest-hitting tests of the year.