Well-proportioned and classically attractive. But lacking in novelty or drama? A clear BMW influence, but trimmer and more athletic.
Strong rear-wheel-drive proportions: long hood, front wheel well ahead of the door cut, short deck. The XE is 1.4 inches longer than the 3, yet somehow appears stubbier.
Classic BMW rear side window kink. More coupe-like roof line. But if you want swoopier styling than the 3, BMW also offers the 4.
Good materials, but could be more cleanly or more dramatically styled. The XE's interior seems styled and finished to hit a lower price point. Underwhelming.
Interior styling is also very BMW. The center stack cants slightly towards the driver. Jaguar's infotainment system remains a generation or two behind the curve in usability.
Good ergonomics; iDrive is much more user-friendly than in early iterations. But smallish display? In the 3 you want the sport seats with their power-adjustable bolsters.
The rear seat is a little roomier than the XE's, but I'd prefer a cushion higher off the floor. Largest trunk the the class. But no spare tire beneath its floor.
BMW has long been known for its smooth, powerful inline sixes. The new one even excels at mpg. Some past BMW sixes have been much prettier when undressed.