Jaguar has updated its XE and XF range with a new special edition model: the Sport 300. Available only for the 2019 model year, the special edition sedan is powered by the same four-cylinder 2.0 gasoline engine as the cheapest F-Type, producing 296 horsepower, and features all-wheel drive. It also comes with a new particulate filter that can capture ultra-fine particles and oxidise them into CO2. Further distinguishing the 300 Sport models are unique Dark Satin Grey exterior details on the car's door mirror caps, rear spoiler, and grille surround.

There's also 300 Sport badging on the front grille and bootlid. Distinctive 19- and 20-inch wheels finished in Satin Technical Grey are exclusive to the special edition, as are 300 Sport-branded brake callipers. Inside, special design accents continue with yellow contrast stitching on the steering wheel, seats, door casings and armrest. Other modifications include 300 Sport-branded treadplates, sport carpet mats, badged steering wheel and embossed headrests. Prices start at £45,160 for the XE Sport 300. There's no word on U.S. availability, but chances of it being sold here seem unlikely since the XE and XF are already available in America with a 296-hp engine option and all-wheel drive.

To mark the launch of the new special editions, Jaguar pitted an XE 300 Sport against Hungarian Winter Olympic gold medallist Shaolin Sándor Liu in an ice race to showcase the car's all-wheel-drive traction and dynamic handling. It was held at Flevonice in the Netherlands, where the sports sedan became the first car to complete a flying lap of the world's longest artificial outdoor ice circuit.

Jaguar Stability Development Leader Sean Haughey lapped the track in 3 minutes and 3 seconds at an average speed of 36 mph, beating the Olympic Champion by over a minute. "Ice is one of the most demanding surfaces for any vehicle to contend with, and this race demonstrated the XE's all-surface capability and unrivalled handling in adverse conditions," said Jaguar's chief engineer Mike Cross.