The performance of the 2018 Jaguar XE beats that of the 2018 Mercedes C300 thanks to a few key differences. The C300 features a 2.0-liter, turbocharged, four-cylinder engine that produces 273 pound-feet of torque and 241 horsepower. This engine pairs with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The standard C300 comes with front-wheel drive, while the C300 4Matic has Mercedes’ all-wheel-drive system.
The XE comes standard with a similar 2.0-liter engine that makes 269 pound-feet of torque and 247 horsepower, but it’s available with a diesel-powered unit pumping out 318 pound-feet of torque and 180 horsepower. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard with both engines. Drivers report the Jaguar offers a sportier and punchier driving experience.
Luxury & Convenience
Neither model skimps on luxury, boasting standard features like dual-zone climate control, simulated-leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and Bluetooth connectivity. The base model of the Jaguar XE also has an 8-inch touchscreen with a media infotainment system, while the C300 has a 7-inch central display screen with a central control mounted on the console.
Options for the C300 include Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, heated and ventilated seats, a cabin air fragrance and purification system, leather upholstery, and a heated steering wheel. With the XE, you can add a larger 10-inch touchscreen, a premium Meridian audio system, heated rear seats, and a 3G Wi-Fi connection.
Safety & Security
Both models come equipped with ample safety features, including advanced airbags throughout the cabin, anti-lock brakes, and traction and stability control. All trim levels of the XE have a selectable driving mode system for driving in snow, ice, and rain. Packages combine some of the active safety features, such as lane-keep assist, forward collision mitigation, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The XE is also available with front and rear parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring.
Pricing
The prices of the two sedans are similar, with the XE coming in at about $4,500 lower. The MSRP of the XE is $35,725, while the C300 starts at $40,250.
Fuel Economy
When comparing the fuel economy of the two vehicles, note that the XE is available with a diesel-powered engine option. With the base gas-powered engine, EPA estimates for the XE come in at 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, producing a combined estimate of 28 mpg. The estimates for the C300 are 24 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, making the XE a better choice for drivers wanting to maximize fuel efficiency.
Warranty
The Mercedes-Benz New-Vehicle Limited Warranty offers coverage for defects in workmanship or material for 48 months or 50,000 miles. New Jaguar models are covered by a best-in-class warranty of five years or 60,000 miles.
Take the stylish 2018 Jaguar XE for a test drive at Hennessy Jaguar Gwinnett to see how its features beat out those available on the 2018 Mercedes C300.