Jaguar XE vs BMW 3 Series: Compare by Reg (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Jaguar XE and BMW 3 Series, covering MOT pass rates, estimated running costs, typical issues, and overall reliability. Based on 896,288 MOT tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
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Quick Verdict
The Jaguar XE edges ahead in this comparison with an 88% MOT pass rate versus 83% for the BMW 3 Series. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The Jaguar XE has a slight advantage on MOT results, while the BMW 3 Series may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
Jaguar XE
88%
MOT pass rate
90,196 tests
More reliableBMW 3 Series
83%
MOT pass rate
806,092 tests
Full Comparison: Jaguar XE vs BMW 3 Series
| Category | Jaguar XE | BMW 3 Series |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 88%Winner | 83% |
| MOT Fail Rate | 12%Winner | 17% |
| vs All-Model Avg | +6 ptsWinner | +1 pts |
| Est. Fuel Cost (petrol, 8,000 mi/yr) | £1,814 | £1,814 |
| Est. Insurance Group | 25-35 | 25-35 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £2,000-£3,500 | £2,000-£3,500 |
| Engine Size | 2.0L | 2.2L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Petrol, Diesel |
| Segment | Premium | Premium |
| Avg Mileage | 49,911 miWinner | 105,806 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 90,196 | 806,092 |
| Model Years | 7 years | 32 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (94%)Winner | 2021 (93%) |
| Worst Year | 2015 (87%)Winner | 2000 (77%) |
| Reliability Trend | Improving | Improving |
Pass rates are the share of MOT tests that ended in a pass (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included), across all years of each model. Best and worst years need at least 100 tests. Fuel cost, insurance group and depreciation are our rough estimates from engine size and make, not official figures.
Common Problems Comparison
Typical issues to check on cars of this type and age, not faults measured for these models.
Jaguar XE: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
BMW 3 Series: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Higher tyre and brake wear (larger engine)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
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Jaguar XE vs BMW 3 Series FAQ
Can I compare a Jaguar XE and BMW 3 Series by registration plate?
Yes. Enter each car's UK registration plate on this page or use our free compare tool at carcostcheck.co.uk/compare to see MOT history, mileage, health scores and running costs for the exact vehicles you are considering, not just model averages.
Which is more reliable, the Jaguar XE or BMW 3 Series?
The Jaguar XE has the higher MOT pass rate, 88% compared to 83% for the BMW 3 Series (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
Which is cheaper to run, the Jaguar XE or BMW 3 Series?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Jaguar XE costs around £1,814 in fuel, while the BMW 3 Series costs around £1,814 (our estimates for petrol versions from average engine size, with fuel at GOV.UK average pump prices for the week of 19 October 2026). On these estimates they cost the same in fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Jaguar XE or BMW 3 Series?
The Jaguar XE edges ahead in this comparison with an 88% MOT pass rate versus 83% for the BMW 3 Series. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The Jaguar XE has a slight advantage on MOT results, while the BMW 3 Series may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
Jaguar XE Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
BMW 3 Series Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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