Jaguar’s next sports car likely to be a lightweight roadster

Posted Tue Jan 27 2009 6:42 AM by Kenneth Hall

Jaguar first previewed a lightweight roadster back in 2000 with its F-Type concept car

There are numerous reports about Jaguar working on a brand new sports car, with some speculating that the car will be a mid-engined supercar to take on the likes of the Audi R8, while others claim it is more likely to be a lightweight roadster designed along the lines of the Porsche Boxster or BMW Z4. According to inside sources, this second theory is the more accurate one.

Speaking with AutoWeek at this month’s Detroit Auto Show, a Jaguar insider revealed that the company is looking at launching an affordable, front-engined sports car to be called the XE. Last September it was revealed that Jaguar had actually registered the XE title as a trademark in the UK, however, the insider explained that the project had not been given a final sign off yet.

If given the go ahead, the XE is expected to be launched around 2012 or 2013 along with the replacement for the XK. Supporting the project is the boss of Jaguar’s new parent company, Ratan Tata, who has voiced enthusiasm for an entry-level Jaguar sports car even before he had bought the company.

In Jaguar’s more immediate future is the launch of the next-generation XJ flagship next year as well as a diesel-powered XK.

Reader Comments

Tue Jan 29 2008 1:05 PM
chris says

bubye X type! good riddance. maybe you can come back with a cleaner futuristic look instead of being a midsized 70 year old retro mini-coach.
Tue Jan 29 2008 1:07 PM
Jezza says

The X-type wasn\'t a bad car, it was just that the competition was better.
Tue Jan 29 2008 9:44 PM
NaBUru38 says

More important, the X-Type meant Jaguar was in the same level as Mercedes or BMW. Jaguar used to aim a little higher, so the discontinuation of the X-Type is a good way to recover that.

I assume this car will be closer to an SC, XLR or SL-Class rather than a Boxster, Z4, TT or SLK-Class. A small car would have the same effect on Jaguar's image as the X-Type.
Thu Jan 31 2008 11:39 AM
Dan Middleton says

Bring it on! I actually had the privilege to have my picture taken while seated in the F-Type Prototype when shown in Orlando, Florida. The next day I went to the local Jaguar Dealer and plunked down a deposit. I was second on the dealers list. I patiently waited for two years and when it became apparent the F-Type project was killed, my deposit was returned. This was a very sad day. I have kept the dream alive since then. I only hope the ressurection of the F-Type project is more than a rumor. Having been an E-Type "freak" for more than 30 years, (own two) I would love to get my hands on the new F-Type before I depart this planet. I hope others will express interest in this fabulous car to keep Jaguar in its position of prominence.
Tue Jan 27 2009 11:55 AM
burke says

The model shown is OK but imo, it's not a good representation of what a future mid engined Jaguar should look like, not after the fabulous XJ-220. For a better idea of what Jaguar's response to the Audi R8 should look like , please go to www.gtspirit.com and search there and enjoy...
Tue Jan 27 2009 3:48 PM
danDAN says

They keep saying its coming. Again and again, I think it will get cancelled as Tata are moaning about money atm and money is what one needs to build a new car.

Sorry to sound pessimistic but unless they buy Elise chassis off Lotus, whack in maybe the Focus RS Engine or a high tuned V6 can't see this coming myself.
Tue Jan 27 2009 4:43 PM
NoNameDenton says

I wonder what engines this entry level Jag will see

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