In a glamorous event at London’s Earls Court, the long-awaited, overhyped highly-anticipated Jaguar XE mid-size sports sedan finally made its debut. Featuring a lightweight construction, exciting design (sort of), luxurious interior, and fine-tuned ride and handling, the rear-drive sedan is pitched as a BMW 3-Series fighter.

The 2015 Jaguar XE loos fairly similar to the XF but is slimmer and more chiseled. It is not just the looks, either. The car features an aluminium-intensive monocoque (75 percent) which makes it light by the standards of this segment, yet incredibly stiff. It is also the most aerodynamic Jaguar ever made with Cd 0.26.

That, combined with a precise and painstakingly engineered rear-drive chassis and sport suspension system means the XE, even in its base diesel version, is a hoot to drive – a real thorn in the 3-Series’ side. But it’s not all sport sport with the XE. Jaguar promises the car also delivers a supple ride. It is, after all, a family saloon.

Jaguar XE will launch early next year with a range of engines, including a range-topping supercharged 3.0-litre V6 in the XE S model with 340PS and 0-60mph in 4.9s. Four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines will also be available, including a 2.0-litre Ingenium diesel with 75mpg and 99g/km CO2. So whichever way you decide to go, Jag has got you covered.

Needless to say the XE comes with the latest convenience and connectivity features including the all-new InControl infotainment system offers the latest technologies with 8-inch display and voice recognition. There is also Jaguar InControl Remote functionality for iOS and Android smartphones.

Full details of the entire XE range will be announced at the Paris Motorshow in October, but Jaguar has already confirmed prices will start from £27,000.