Articles: Jaguar

Jaguar Hastens Internal Combustion's Demise by Killing all Gas Cars This Year

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 01:36:00 +0000

In February of 2021, Jaguar announced that it would become an all-electric brand by 2025, a feat that, if achieved, would make it the first legacy brand to make that transition. Later this year, the last three gas-powered Jaguar models (E-Pace, F-Pace, and XF Sedan) will end production well before the electric replacements are ready. Jaguar is building up some inventory to carry it through the production crunch, but it is only able to do that because the brand's sales have fallen from 179,000 units in 2017 to 43,000 units globally.

The first of three new EVs arrives in mid-2025 with a followup model later that year and the final of the trio in 2026. All three will be based on Jaguar's new JEA (Jaguar Electric Architecture) platform, unrelated to the current Jaguar I-Pace. Starting with a high-dollar grand touring sedan, Jaguar intends to take aim at competitors like the Porsche Taycan and Audi e-tron GT. And while Jaguar does claim the new four-door GT will be the most powerful Jaguar ever (that crown is currently held by the top F-type with 575 horsepower), they are aiming for a more generous range than the direct competition with 430 miles on the WLTP test or roughly 400 miles when the EPA gets their hands on it.

Unfortunately, the full-size Jaguar XJ has been killed again before it got resurrected. When the gasoline XJ went out of production, Jaguar said the XJ would return as an EV, but that plan was scuttled back in 2021 and no XJ is forthcoming.

By the end of the year, even the I-Pace crossover will end production, potentially leaving Jaguar with zero vehicles in production if there are delays with the four-door GT. The I-Pace never made a mark on the market with a $73,000+ starting price and a 246 mile range.

Jaguar's Big Gamble: All-Electric By 2025

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 01:38:04 +0000

Jaguar Land Rover hasn't been doing very well for the past few years. Numerous issues such as poor sales in China, demand for diesel powered vehicles dropping, and the pandemic have put the automaker in a difficult place. This morning in the United Kingdom, Jaguar Land Rover CEO Thierry Bolloré announced plans to make Jaguar an electric only brand by 2025; Land Rover to launch six electric models; and to become a net-zero-carbon business by 2039.

"We are harnessing those ingredients today to reimagine the business, the two brands and the customer experience of tomorrow. The Reimagine strategy allows us to enhance and celebrate that uniqueness like never before. Together, we can design an even more sustainable and positive impact on the world around us," Bolloré said in a statement.

Jaguar

Out of the two brands, Jaguar is hurting the most. Sales have dropped like a rock due to people stepping away from sedans and diesel powertrains. Bolloré's plan has the brand moving to an all-electric lineup by 2025. Not many details were released or talked about during the press conference this morning. What we do know is,

Future models will utilize a new modular electric platform, known as the Electric Modular Architecture (EMA).
The planned XJ replacement, rumored to go electric has been canceled.
- Likely reason for the cancelation is the platform that was going to be used for this model likely didn't scale to other models.
- Jaguar did say the XJ name could appear again on a future model.
Automotive News (Subscription Required) reports that Jaguar will also move away from SUV-styled vehicles, likely meaning the end of the E and F-Pace.

Land Rover

Land Rover isn't going to dive in quickly as Jaguar into EVs. The plan is to continue offering a mix of powertrains, but with a heavy focus on electrification. Six all-electric models are planned to be launched by 2030, with the first model coming out in 2024. No word on what that model would be, but our guess is possibly a Range Rover EV. Land Rover will use Electric Modular Architecture for EVs, alongside the Modular Longitudinal Architecture (MLA) for hybrids. The goal is to have 60 percent of Land Rover sales be for electrics by 2030.

Other Details

Jaguar Land Rover said that it would keep all three of its U.K. plans open, but the Castle Bromwich plant(home to Jaguar XE, XF, and F-Type production) has a unclear future.

“First we will continue production of our existing nameplates built there to the end of their lifecycle. Then we will explore opportunities to refurbish the plant, which could benefit from the consolidation of businesses scattered across the Midlands,” said Bolloré.

Jaguar Land Rover is also planning on moving their executive team and other major management positions to a centralized location in Gaydon, and work more closely with their parent company, Tata Group.

Source: Jaguar Land Rover

Jaguar Land Rover reimagines the future of modern luxury by design

New global strategy – Reimagine – announced for the British company under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer, Thierry Bolloré
A sustainability-rich reimagination of modern luxury, unique customer experiences, and positive societal impact
Start of journey to become a net zero carbon business by 2039
Reimagination of Jaguar as an all-electric luxury brand from 2025 to ‘realise its unique potential’
In the next five years, Land Rover will welcome six pure electric variants as it continues to be the world leader of luxury SUVs
All Jaguar and Land Rover nameplates to be available in pure electric form by end of the decade; first all-electric Land Rover model in 2024
Clean-hydrogen fuel-cell power being developed in preparation for future demand
Streamlined structure to deliver greater agility and promote an efficiency of focus
Global manufacturing and assembly footprint to be retained, rightsized, repurposed and reorganised
Collaborations and knowledge-sharing with industry leaders, in particular from within the wider Tata Group will allow the company to explore potential synergies on clean energy, connected services, data and software development leadership
On a path towards double-digit EBIT margin and positive cash flow, with an ambition to achieve positive cash net-of-debt by 2025 with a value creation approach delivering quality and profit-over-volume

Gaydon, UK - Monday 15th February 2021:

A vision of modern luxury by design
Jaguar Land Rover will reimagine the future of modern luxury by design through its two distinct, British brands.

Set against a canvas of true sustainability, Jaguar Land Rover will become a more agile creator of the world’s most desirable luxury vehicles and services for the most discerning of customers. A strategy that is designed to create a new benchmark in environmental, societal and community impact for a luxury business.

“Jaguar Land Rover is unique in the global automotive industry. Designers of peerless models, an unrivalled understanding of the future luxury needs of its customers, emotionally rich brand equity, a spirit of Britishness and unrivalled access to leading global players in technology and sustainability within the wider Tata Group.

“We are harnessing those ingredients today to reimagine the business, the two brands and the customer experience of tomorrow. The Reimagine strategy allows us to enhance and celebrate that uniqueness like never before. Together, we can design an even more sustainable and positive impact on the world around us,” said Mr Bolloré.

Two distinct modern luxury brands with sustainability at the centre
At the heart of its Reimagine plan will be the electrification of both Land Rover and Jaguar brands on separate architectures with two clear, unique personalities.

In a Land Rover, vehicle and driver are united by adventure. By breaking new ground, confronting new challenges and not being content with the expected, Land Rover truly helps people to go ‘Above and Beyond’. In the next five years, Land Rover will welcome six pure electric variants as it continues to be the world leader of luxury SUVs through its three families of Range Rover, Discovery and Defender. The first all-electric variant will arrive in 2024.

By the middle of the decade, Jaguar will have undergone a renaissance to emerge as a pure electric luxury brand with a dramatically beautiful new portfolio of emotionally engaging designs and pioneering next-generation technologies. Jaguar will exist to make life extraordinary by creating dramatically beautiful automotive experiences that leave its customers feeling unique and rewarded. Although the nameplate may be retained, the planned Jaguar XJ replacement will not form part of the line-up, as the brand looks to realise its unique potential.

Jaguar and Land Rover will offer pure electric power, nameplate by nameplate, by 2030. By this time, in addition to 100% of Jaguar sales, it is anticipated that around 60% of Land Rovers sold will be equipped with zero tailpipe powertrains.

Jaguar Land Rover’s aim is to achieve net zero carbon emissions across its supply chain, products and operations by 2039. As part of this ambition, the company is also preparing for the expected adoption of clean fuel-cell power in line with a maturing of the hydrogen economy. Development is already underway with prototypes arriving on UK roads within the next 12 months as part of the long-term investment programme.

Sustainability that delivers a new benchmark in environmental and societal impact for the luxury sector is fundamental to the success of Reimagine. A new centralised team will be empowered to build on and accelerate pioneering innovations in materiality, engineering, manufacturing, services and circular economy investments.

Annual commitments of circa £2.5bn will include investments in electrification technologies and the development of connected services to enhance the journey and experiences of customers, alongside data-centric technologies that will further improve their ownership ecosystem.

Proven services like the flexible PIVOTAL subscription model (which has grown 750% during the fiscal year), born out of Jaguar Land Rover’s incubator and investor arm, InMotion, will now be rolled out to other markets following a successful launch in the UK.

Quality and efficiency
Reimagine will see Jaguar Land Rover establish new benchmark standards in quality and efficiency for the luxury sector by rightsizing, repurposing and reorganising.

Central to that journey, and in order to establish different personalities for the two brands, is the new architecture strategy.

Land Rover will use the forthcoming flex Modular Longitudinal Architecture (MLA). It will deliver electrified internal combustion engines (ICE) and full electric variants as the company evolves its product line-up in the future. In addition, Land Rover will also use pure electric biased Electric Modular Architecture (EMA) which will also support advanced electrified ICE.

Future Jaguar models will be built exclusively on a pure electric architecture.

Reimagine is designed to deliver simplification too. By consolidating the number of platforms and models being produced per plant, the company will be able to establish new benchmark standards in efficient scale and quality for the luxury sector. Such an approach will help rationalise sourcing and accelerate investments in local circular economy supply chains.

From a core manufacturing perspective that means Jaguar Land Rover will retain its plant and assembly facilities in the home UK market and around the world. As well as being the manufacturer of the MLA architecture, Solihull, West Midlands will also be the home to the future advanced Jaguar pure electric platform.

Key partners including Trade Unions, retailers and those in the supply chain will continue to play a vital part of the extended new Jaguar Land Rover ecosystem and its journey towards reimagining the future of modern luxury.

ReFocus to a more agile operation
As evidenced with the latest financial results, Jaguar Land Rover has a strong foundation on which to build a sustainable and resilient business for its customers and their communities, partners, employees, shareholders and the environment.

Driving this transformation is the recently launched Refocus programme, by consolidating existing initiatives like Charge+ with new cross-functional activities.

Reimagine will see Jaguar Land Rover right-size, repurpose and reorganise into a more agile operation. The creation of a flatter structure is designed to empower employees to create and deliver at speed and with clear purpose.

To accelerate this efficiency of focus, the company will substantially reduce and rationalise its non-manufacturing infrastructure in the UK. Gaydon will become the symbol of this effort – the ‘reactor’ of the business - with the Executive Team and other management functions moving into the one location to aid frictionless cooperation and agile decision-making.

Leapfrog to leadership with Tata Group
In order to realise its vision of modern luxury mobility with confidence, the company will curate closer collaboration and knowledge-sharing with Tata Group companies to enhance sustainability and reduce emissions as well as sharing best practice in next-generation technology, data and software development leadership. Jaguar Land Rover has been a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tata Motors, in which Tata Sons is the largest shareholder, since 2008.

“We have so many ingredients from within. It is a unique opportunity,” said Mr Bolloré. “Others have to rely solely on external partnerships and compromise, but we have frictionless access that will allow us to lean forward with confidence and at speed.”

Bringing all these ingredients together, Jaguar Land Rover is on a path towards double-digit EBIT margins and positive cash flow, with an ambition to achieve positive cash net-of-debt by 2025.

Ultimately, Jaguar Land Rover aims to be one of the most profitable luxury manufacturers in the world.

Mr N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons, Tata Motors and Jaguar Land Rover Automotive plc commented: “The Reimagine strategy takes Jaguar Land Rover on a significant path of acceleration in harmony with the vision and sustainability priorities of the wider Tata Group. Together, we will help Jaguar realise its potential, reinforce Land Rover’s timeless appeal and collectively become a symbol of a truly responsible business for its customers, society and the planet.”

Mr Bolloré concluded: “As a human-centred company, we can, and will, move much faster and with clear purpose of not just reimagining modern luxury but defining it for two distinct brands. Brands that present emotionally unique designs, pieces of art if you like, but all with connected technologies and responsible materials that collectively set new standards in ownership. We are reimagining a new modern luxury by design.”

Jaguar I-Pace Gets More Range From Software Update

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 15:33:17 +0000

Due to knowledge gained at the I-Pace eTrophy racing series, Jaguar is releasing an update, available at dealerships, for its I-Pace EV CUV. The update allows the vehicle to travel up to an additional 12 miles on a full charge over the previous range estimate of 292 miles WLTP.

The update improves thermal management of the powertrain, alters the torque split front to rear, and improved regenerative braking. The EV system has also been updated to more accurately reflect driving range based on driver habits. The battery will allow the battery to run to a lower state of charge before requiring a recharge without effecting drivablity, durability, or performance.

The update is complimentary and can be done at Jaguar dealerships. The update also includes a new Software-Over-The-Air functionality which will allow the vehicle to receive future updates without visiting a dealership.

Jaguar is not changing the estimated 292 range on the WLTP rating though, citing costs required to go through certification again.

Jaguar F-Type Restyled for 2021

Tue, 03 Dec 2019 15:30:47 +0000

Jaguar is updating the F-Type for 2021 with a sleeker look and updated engine choices. The headlamps have been slimmed down and the bumper reworked wit model specific graphics. Around the tail end, the tail lamps are slimmer and feature a new "Chicane" graphic that is borrowed from the Jaguar I-Pace. Those who select the R model will get a new wheels design, 20-inch 10-spoke wheels with Pirelli P Zero tires, 10 millimeters wider than before. All models can be selected in one of 16 different paint colors with each one offered in either gloss or satin.

Inside there is a new reconfigurable 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The 10-inch Touch Pro infotainment system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system is able to receive over the air updates. The base F-type and R-Dynamic model will get sport seats while Performance bucket seats are standard on the R and First Edition models.

Under the bonnet is a choice of three engines depending on model. At base, there is a 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder capable of 296 horsepower with a claimed 0-60 time as low as 5.4 seconds. Next up is a supercharged V6 rated at 380 horsepower. Sitting at the top is a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 which is uprated slightly from prior years to 575 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Along with torque vectoring all-wheel drive, the top motor can get this cat from 0 to 60 in 3.5 seconds. Each engine comes with active exhaust system for more exhilarating sound when you want it.

The ride and handling has been updated with an updated suspension and electric assist power steering. Jaguar's Adaptive Dynamic system with continuously variable dampers have been tuned for more comfort at low speed and greater stability at high speed.

For just the 2021 model year, there will be an F-type First Edition model. It will be based on the high-performance R-Dynamic trim and feature special 20-inch wheels, and just three colors, Santorini black, Eiger gray, and Fuji white. They come with 12-way power-adjustable seats with Windsor leather while the instrument cluster is wrapped in ebony suedecloth.

Pricing has not yet been announced, but don't expect it to cost less than the current $63,000 the car goes for today. It will likely go on sale mid-way through next year.

Jaguar Land Rover Could Share BMW Platform

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 13:37:21 +0000

Jaguar Land Rover already has an agreement with BMW to use BMW sourced engines in future vehicles, but now a report from Autocar says that the company could use a BMW sourced platform for some future small vehicles as well. Jaguar wants to increase its "Pace" lineup with an "A-Pace" and "B-Pace", small crossover coupes that would use BMW's front-wheel drive FAAR platform that underpins the X1, X2, and eventually the entire Mini linup.

Over at Land Rover, there is a possible revival of the Freelander based on the same FAAR platform to fill the entry level spot in the Land Rover showroom. Even the larger Evoque and Discovery Sport could move to FAAR when their current runs are up mid to late next decade. Naturally, as all new platforms are today, they are engineered to accept electrification in the form of electric assist, hybrids, or even pure electric powertrains.

If all this comes to fruition, vehicles using the FAAR platform could top 1.5 million in global sales annually.

Jaguar Land Rover Insists It Is Not For Sale

Tue, 25 Jun 2019 14:04:19 +0000

Jaguar Land Rover's chief Dr. Ralph Speth insists that in spite of recent spate of terrible earnings, the company is not for sale. JLR's recent issues stem from the collapse of diesel car sales in Europe while the company has a drought of hybrids and cleaner vehicles for sale. JLR is also spending billions on building plants overseas for global market production. Jaguar has recent had to layoff thousands of workers in an effort to slash $3.2 Billion in annual spending.

Dr. Speth's comments come after the Jaguar I-Pace won three World Car Awards, including World Car of the Year.

Jaguar Readies New Platform For XJ

Fri, 21 Jun 2019 22:32:00 +0000

As we wrote late last month, the Jaguar XJ is about to use up one of its nine lives. The big cat gets euthanized next month without a direct replacement ready for market. However, we also told you that the cat will be back, possibly as an electric vehicle next time. At an investor meeting Jaguar confirmed that to be true.

Jaguar is working on a new Modular Longitudinal Architecture (MLA) platform for use under the next XJ and for the next Range Rover. The flexible platform is capable of being used in electric, plug-in hybrid, or mild-hybrid configurations. It is also being designed to be very light weight, eventually to be used to replace all five of the platforms that Jaguar Land Rover uses. Jaguar Land Rover hopes to increase profits by reducing the number of architectures. Jaguar does plan to continue to develop the I-Pace platform which is unrelated to MLA.

The XJ's direct replacement will launch first as a electric model with a predicted range of 292 miles using a 90.2 kWh battery. Later, 6-cylinder models (likely the new inline-6 recently shown in Range Rover) will become available. The 292 mile range in the XJ would rival the Tesla Model S and Porsche Taycan.

For those who prefer a plug-in hybrid, the MLA platform will use a 13.1 kWh battery giving an estimated EV range of about 31 miles. Mild-Hybrid versions get a belt-alternator-starter setup to give a small electric boost at start.

Also on the MLA platform will be the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport. Both names currently offer plug-in hybrid versions, but the new MLA platform could enable the Range Rover to be available in an all electric version. Land Rover has not yet confirmed this to be the case. The Range Rover would come first with the Sport following close behind in 2021.

All of this comes in the background of huge job cuts at Jaguar after a record $4.6 billion loss.

Jaguar XJ Uses Another of its Nine Lives

Thu, 30 May 2019 19:06:00 +0000

The Sedan Apocalypse continues. Jaguar has confirmed via a spokesperson that the current Jaguar XJ will end production this summer. However, that is just one of the big cat's nine lives. Rumor has it that the XJ nameplate will rise again on a new car, possibly a large hatchback, driven entirely by electric power.

From Jaguar itself, they said:

Quote

"[Jaguar will] continue the XJ nameplate and will use its renowned engineering capability and technological innovation to ensure its longevity."

So whatever happens, the XJ is not totally dead yet. The XJ had its best sales in 1986, with over 19,000 XJs sold in the US. The current car started life in 2009, giving it a good 10-year run, however, sales of the XJ lately have been pretty poor with only 1,579 units being moved last year.

Related:

Jaguar Land Rover Unveils their Cuts Totaling 2.5 Billion Pounds

Sat, 12 Jan 2019 20:23:05 +0000

Ford wasn't the only automaker to announce cuts this week. On Thursday, Jaguar Land Rover announced they would cutting 10 percent of their global workforce (4,500 jobs) as part of a 2.5 billion pound (about $3.2 billion) effort to reduce costs and improve cash flow through 2020.

As we reported last month, JLR got hit with a triple whammy of bad news; declining sales in China, falling demand for diesel vehicles, and the looming threat of Brexit.

The company reported that retail sales fell 4.6 percent in 2018, mostly due to the uncertainty surrounding Brexit. That pales in comparison to the 22 percent drop in sales seen in the Chinese market - due mostly in part to the trade war.

JLR CEO Dr. Ralph Speth said the cuts were a response to “multiple geopolitical and regulatory disruptions as well as technology challenges facing the automotive industry.”

The company said the cuts will focus on those in design, engineering, supervisory, and senior management. No cuts are expected to hit those in production.

Source: Bloomberg, Jaguar Land Rover

JAGUAR LAND ROVER IMPLEMENTS NEXT PHASE OF TRANSFORMATION PROGRAMME

Jaguar Land Rover, the UK’s largest vehicle manufacturer, today outlined the next phase of ‘Charge and Accelerate’, the company’s ongoing transformation programme to deliver £2.5bn in cost reductions and cashflow improvements over 18 months as well as long-term strategic operating efficiencies.

Next phase of major transformation plan to lay foundations for long-term sustainable profitable growth
Creation of leaner, more resilient organisation; reducing global workforce by around 4,500 people. This is in addition to 1,500 people who left the business in 2018
Further investment into electrification with Electric Drive Units to be produced at Wolverhampton Engine Manufacturing Centre and new Battery Assembly Centre to be established at Hams Hall, North Warwickshire
CEO Prof. Dr. Ralf Speth: “Decisive action will help deliver resilient long-term growth as Jaguar Land Rover implements cost and profit improvements. This will safeguard our future and enable vital ongoing investment into Autonomous, Connected, Electric

Jaguar Land Rover is expanding a business-wide organisation review aimed at reducing the size of its global workforce by around 4,500 people. This is in addition to the 1,500 who left the company during 2018. The next phase of this transformation programme will begin with a voluntary redundancy programme in the UK. This strategic review will create a leaner, more resilient organisation with a flatter management structure.

We are taking decisive action to help deliver long-term growth, in the face of multiple geopolitical and regulatory disruptions as well as technology challenges facing the automotive industry. The ‘Charge and Accelerate’ programme combines efficiency measures with targeted investment, safeguarding our future and ensuring that we maximise the opportunities created by growing demand for Autonomous, Connected, Electric and Shared technologies.
PROF. DR. RALF SPETH
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF JAGUAR LAND ROVER

So far, the ‘Charge and Accelerate’ programme has identified over £1bn of improvements, with more than £500mn already realised in 2018. The savings and improvements achieved will enable Jaguar Land Rover to fund vital investments into technology to safeguard its future.

These investments include today’s announcement that, from later this year, next-generation Electric Drive Units (EDU) will be produced at the company’s Engine Manufacturing Centre in Wolverhampton. These EDUs will be powered by batteries assembled at a new Jaguar Land Rover Battery Assembly Centre located at Hams Hall, North Warwickshire, reinforcing the company’s commitment to the West Midlands and the UK.

The Battery Assembly Centre will be one of the largest of its kind in the UK, using new production techniques and technologies to manufacture battery packs for future Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles.

The latest investments and the transformation measures aim to build on unprecedented growth achieved by Jaguar Land Rover over the past decade, enabling the company to launch today’s range of award-winning Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles. In the last year alone, the company’s global product portfolio has expanded to include the all-electric Jaguar I-PACE, the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport with PHEV derivatives and, most recently, the new Range Rover Evoque, also with next-generation hybrid technology.

In 2018, the company continued its global expansion with the opening of its latest vehicle manufacturing plant in Slovakia as well as investment into specialist engineering hubs in the Republic of Ireland, Hungary and Manchester, UK. In the same year, Jaguar Land Rover also confirmed plans to invest in its Solihull plant to support the introduction of the next generation Range Rover and Range Rover Sport.

The next chapter in the story of the Jaguar and Land Rover brands will be the most exciting - and challenging - in our history. Revealing the iconic Defender, investing in cleaner, smarter, more desirable cars and electrifying our facilities to manufacture a future range of British-built electric vehicles will all form part of building a globally competitive and flourishing company.
PROF. DR. RALF SPETH
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF JAGUAR LAND ROVER

Rumorpile: Jaguar Land Rover May Slash 5,000 Jobs

Tue, 18 Dec 2018 13:48:44 +0000

This past year hasn't been good for Jaguar Land Rover. A triple whammy of sales dropping in China, demand for diesel vehicles falling, and the looming threat of Brexit has seen the company report a 90 million pound (about $113,550,300) loss in the third-quarter. S&P Global Ratings recently cut their long-term rating into JLR's parent company, Tata Motors into Junk Status.

Because of this, Jaguar Land Rover will be detailing a three-year cost-cutting plan next month. Tata announced the plan back in October that would save 2.5 billion pounds (about $3.2 billion) within the first 18 months. There would be job cuts, but Tata did not say how many. The Financial Times reported this week that JLR is planning to cut 5,000 of its 40,000 workforce in the U.K.- this according to sources.

“It’s do or die at the moment,” Robin Zhu, an analyst from Bernstein said.

“JLR has been seriously mismanaged in recent years, with cost runaways, products disappointing in the market, and hedging issues costing it billions."

“Jaguar Land Rover notes media speculation about the potential impact of its ongoing charge and accelerate transformation programmes. As announced when we published our second-quarter results, these programmes aim to deliver £2.5bn of cost, cash and profit improvements over the next two years. Jaguar Land Rover does not comment on rumours concerning any part of these plans,” JLR said in a statement to The Guardian.

Other parts of the plan are said to include a reduction in models and selling off various assets. But Evercore ISI, an investment advisory frim said JLR needs to do more than cut costs.

"The company needs to consider whether it’s spreading itself too wide and whether competing with the Germans in the tough premium sedan segment is a viable strategy," it wrote in a note to investors this week.

Source: Financial Times (Subscription Required) via The Guardian, Automotive News (Subscription Required)

Rumorpile: F-Type Could Offer An Electric Powertrain

Tue, 27 Nov 2018 15:23:06 +0000

The next-generation Jaguar F-Type is expected to arrive in 2021 and according to a report from Autocar, the company is deciding what powertrains should go into it.

One option being considered is going with a fully electric powertrain. This would allow designers to push the boundaries of the next F-Type's design. Going electric would also allow for a lower center of gravity if Jaguar was able to mount the batteries below the floor. It is unclear how much power could be on tap, but we would expect a noticeable increase to the 197 horsepower electric motors used in the i-Pace.

Another powertrain up for consideration is a V8 sourced from BMW. Codenamed Project Jennifer, the V8 in question is a 4.4L twin-turbo producing 640 horsepower and 600 pound-feet of torque - allowing the F-Type to challenge the most powerful Porsche 911s. Why is Jaguar sourcing a V8 from BMW and not developing its own? Blame falling V8 sales.

Of course, there is the option of offering both gas and electric powertains. While that would limit design freedom by just going with an electric powertrain only, it would widen the appeal of the F-Type.

One item that is certain is the platform. Autocar reports that the next F-Type will use an aluminum-intensive platform that will help reduce weight and make the interior slightly more spacious. It could also allow Jaguar to build a successor to the XK, something we reported back in May.

Source: Autocar

Jaguar Unleashes An F-Type Rally Car

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 20:47:00 +0000

It would be safe to assume that not many people thought the Jaguar F-Type could make for a rally car. But the British automaker decided to give a shot.

Jaguar built two F-Type rally car prototypes to honor the 70th anniversary of the Jaguar XK 120, a sports car that won a number of rallies in its time. They are much more than a convertible with extra lights and off-road tires. Jaguar installed a set of hand-built competition suspension components that can take the abuse of a rally stage; limited-slip differential, hydraulic handbrake, larger brakes, and an FIA-certified roll cage. One area Jaguar hasn't messed with is the engine. Both vehicles use the base turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder with 296 horsepower.

Jaguar is planning to bring both of the models out to various events in the coming months.

Gallery: Jaguar F-Type Rally Car

Rumorpile: Jaguar Considers Going Fully Electric

Fri, 12 Oct 2018 18:54:09 +0000

Jaguar Land Rover has already announced plans to begin electrifying their lineups beginning in 2020, but Jaguar could be going one step further. Autocar reports that the management is considering making Jaguar an EV-only brand within the next decade.

Plans have already been drawn up for a strategy that would see Jaguar phase out its conventional lineup with fully electric models over the next five to seven years. Here is the gist of the strategy,

A fully-electric sedan would replace the XJ sedan in two-years time. This model will take on the likes of the Tesla Model S and Porsche's upcoming Taycan.
The XE and XF will be replaced by a new electric crossover that will be similar in size to Audi's e-tron crossover (possibly taking the place of the F-Pace) by 2023.
2025 would see the E-Pace replaced by the next-generation I-Pace.
The upcoming large J-Pace crossover will be the sole conventional model until 2027 when an electric replacement debuts.
There is talk about an electric sports car taking the place of the F-Type.

It is quite the gamble that JLR is considering for the brand. But it one the brand is seriously considering for two reasons. One is that Jaguar sales have been floundering due partly to lineup having more sedans than crossovers, along with being heavily dependent on diesel. The other is that it would allow Jaguar to jump ahead of the likes of Audi and Mercedes-Benz with electric vehicles. Remember, Jaguar already has their EV on sale, while Audi and Mercedes-Benz are in the process of launching theirs.

Source: Autocar

Jaguar Classic Announces E-Type Zero Will Enter Production

Fri, 24 Aug 2018 15:38:19 +0000

When Jaguar announced plans to begin electrifying all of their models beginning in 2020 last fall, one of the models they showed off was the E-Type Zero electric car. Done by JLR's Classic division, the Zero swaps the gas engine for an electric powertrain. The rest of the model is original including the suspension and brakes. Jaguar says the concept has a range of 170 miles and can hit 62 mph in 5.5 seconds. At the time, Jaguar said they would offer the conversion if there is enough demand. Fast forward to this week and Jaguar is moving forward with E-Type Zero.

"We’ve been overwhelmed by the positive reaction to the Jaguar E-type Zero concept. Future-proofing the enjoyment of classic car ownership is a major stepping stone for Jaguar Classic. E-type Zero showcases the incredible heritage of the E-type, and the expertise and craftsmanship at Classic Works, while demonstrating Jaguar Land Rover’s dedication to creating zero emission vehicles across every part of the business, including Jaguar Classic,” said Tim Hannig, Jaguar Land Rover Classic Director in a statement.

Changes for Zero begin with inline-six cylinder engine being swapped for a 40-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery, and a electric motor taking the place of the gearbox. A new prop shaft sends power to the rear-wheels. The interior gets a digital instrument cluster and an optional infotainment display.

Jaguar says that the conversion is fully-reversible due in part to the vehicle's structure not being altered.

Jaguar is taking orders for the E-Type Zero right now and deliveries are expected to begin in 2020. No word on pricing, but we're expecting it will cost a lot.

Source: Jaguar

E-LECTRIC! JAGUAR CLASSIC WILL BUILD ZERO-EMISSIONS E-TYPES

Zero-emissions conversions for iconic sports car get production go-ahead
Production follows successful debut of E-type Zero concept in 2017
Latest concept to make US debut at California’s Monterey Car Week
Prospective clients invited to contact Jaguar Classic with expressions of interest via: zero@jaguarlandrover.com / +44 (0) 203 601 1255 / www.jaguar.com/classic

Ryton-on-Dunsmore, 24 August 2018 - Following an overwhelmingly positive reaction to the original concept for ‘the most beautiful electric car in the world’, Jaguar Classic has confirmed it will offer all-electric E-types for sale. The news follows the iconic EV sports car’s successful debut in concept form at Jaguar Land Rover Tech Fest in September 2017.

Combining its restoration expertise with cutting-edge technology from the Jaguar I-PACE, the award-winning zero-emissions performance SUV, Jaguar Classic will offer tailor-made E-types restored and converted to electric power at the same Classic Works facility as its outstanding E-type Reborn restorations in Coventry, UK.

An EV conversion service for existing E-type owners will also be offered. To preserve the authenticity of the base vehicle, the EV conversion will be fully reversible.

We’ve been overwhelmed by the positive reaction to the Jaguar E-type Zero concept. Future-proofing the enjoyment of classic car ownership is a major stepping stone for Jaguar Classic. “E-type Zero showcases the incredible heritage of the E-type, and the expertise and craftsmanship at Classic Works, while demonstrating Jaguar Land Rover’s dedication to creating zero emission vehicles across every part of the business, including Jaguar Classic,” Tim Hannig, Jaguar Land Rover Classic Director.

Technical specifications and pricing details will follow, but Jaguar Classic is now taking expressions of interest from potential E-type Zero clients. Deliveries of the first electric E-type vehicles are expected to start from summer 2020.

Jaguar E-type Zero concept

The Jaguar E-type Zero concept not only drives and looks like an E-type, it also offers outstanding performance, with quicker acceleration than the original Series 1 E-type.

Jaguar Classic is targeting a range in excess of 170 miles for all-electric E-types, helped by the car’s low kerb weight and sleek aerodynamics. The concept is powered by a 40kWh battery, which can be recharged in six to seven hours, depending on power source.

Apart from its state-of-the-art powertrain, modified instrumentation and fascia showcasing the latest touchscreen infotainment (which will be available as an option), the E-type Zero concept is largely original. Efficient LED headlights complement the iconic Series 1 design.

An electric powertrain with single-speed reduction gear has been specially designed for the E-type, utilising many Jaguar I-PACE components. Its lithium-ion battery pack has the same dimensions, and similar weight, to the standard E-type’s six-cylinder petrol XK engine and is in the same location.

The electric motor lies just behind the battery pack, in place of the E-type’s gearbox. A new propshaft sends power to a carry-over differential and final drive.

Using an electric powertrain with similar weight and dimensions to the outgoing petrol engine and transmission means the car’s structure, including suspension and brakes, has not changed, simplifying the conversion and keeping the driving experience in line with the original vehicle. It drives, handles, rides and brakes like an original E-type with front-rear weight distribution unchanged.

The latest iteration of the E-type Zero concept, finished in a Bespoke Bronze paint finish, will give the car its US debut at The Quail: A Motorsports Gathering on Friday 24 August.

Jaguar Land Rover To Boost Investments To Become Less Dependent on Diesel

Tue, 26 Jun 2018 19:50:33 +0000

Last September, Jaguar Land Rover announced plans to begin electrifying their lineup in 2020. This means electrics, hybrids, and plug-in hybrids. There is a good reason why JLR is doing this. Bloomberg reports that the company is very dependent on diesels in Europe. In the fourth quarter of last year, 87 percent of JLR sales in the region were made up of diesel vehicles - surprising to say in the least as sales of diesels for other brands were dealing due to the Volkswagen diesel emission scandal. But it is starting to hurt Jaguar Land Rover. The company said total sales and revenue through March “did not grow as much as we planned” due to customers becoming very concerned about diesel vehicles. Margins and profit also took a hit.

To pull this off, JLR needs to spend a lot of money. At a presentation for investors yesterday, the company announced that it would be spending 13.5 billion pounds ($18 billion) for the next three years as part of their electrification plans. A fair chunk of the investment will go to JLR's plants in the United Kingdom for retooling. The goal is to offer three versions of all their models, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. Electric-only models will only be offered if there is enough customer demand according to a spokesman.

Source: Bloomberg (Subscription Required)

Jaguar XK To Make A Possible Return?

Tue, 22 May 2018 01:14:36 +0000

While the spotlight has been on crossovers and their upcoming EV, Jaguar is still committed to building sports cars.

“The F-Type has been a huge success. We love sports cars – and I use the plural quite deliberately. Whether that is delivered by a body variant or something else remains to be seen, but for now let’s just say that the body type is very important for us,” said Hanno Kirner, the person overseeing product strategy at Jaguar Land Rover.

Emphasis mine. Jaguar only has one sports car at the moment - the F-Type. But according to Autocar, a second coupe being the successor to the XK (departed Jaguar's lineup in 2014). Some of their evidence comes from comments made by Jaguar’s head of design, Ian Callum last year.

“I want a two-seater [the F-Type] and a 2+2. We’re working on something now. There’s nothing approved, but we instigate in design.”

Reportedly, Callum's team completed a design concept for an XK replacement but was scrapped when Jaguar killed the XK.

Autocar says this new successor to the XK isn't expected until after 2021. Part of this comes down to a new modular platform that is currently being worked on and will debut on the next-generation F-Type - due in 2019. This new platform is reportedly flexible enough to do a 2+2 coupe. Jaguar's Ingenium engine family will provide power for both models and expect some hot versions, including an SVR variant down the road. There is also talk about electrification, but that appears to be a long way out.

Source: Autocar

Jaguar Land Rover Cut 1,000 Contract Jobs Due To Decline in Diesel Sales

Mon, 16 Apr 2018 17:31:59 +0000

Jaguar Land Rover is making some cuts to their work staff. Today, the British automaker announced that it would not renew the contracts of 1,000 agency workers at its Solihull factory in the United Kingdom. According to Autocar, JLR is holding meetings with workers to discuss the changes. In a statement, JLR said the decision is due “continuing headwinds” that have forced the company to make "adjustments to production schedules and the number of agency staff”. Those “continuing headwinds” are due to regulatory crackdown on diesel engines and higher taxes being placed on these models.

This confirms news late last week about the automaker making cuts to their workforce.

JLR also announced that it would be moving 360 workers from the Castle Bromwich to Solihull due to declining car sales. Bromwich is where the company produces most of Jaguar's lineup (F-Type, XE, XF, and XJ).

Sales of diesel vehicles have been hit hard due to the Volkswagen diesel emission scandal. Jaguar Land Rover has been hit the hardest in their home country of the United Kingdom. 90 percent of Jaguar Land Rover models sold in the country are diesels, compared to 45 percent globally. According to industry association SMMT, Land Rover saw sales decline 20 percent to 23,815 through March. Jaguar posted a larger 26 percent decline to 9.709.

JLR is trying to change that as they get ready to launch the I-Pace EV later this year, and plans on introducing electrified variants of all of their models by 2020.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), Autocar

Rumorpile: Jaguar Readies A Larger Crossover

Mon, 09 Apr 2018 20:14:00 +0000

Jaguar is possibly working on another crossover, one to take on the likes of the Porsche Cayenne and BMW X5.

Autocar reports that Jaguar is planning a flagship crossover to not only build on the massive success of their current crossovers (F-Pace and E-Pace), but also to attract wealthy customers, especially in China.

Reportedly named J-Pace, the crossover will debut a new design language that is currently being worked on by design director Ian Callum. Underpinning the model will be the aluminum architecture used in the Range Rover. For the J-Pace, the architecture will be made slightly longer and wider. It will also sit lower for better on-road behavior. Also coming from the Range Rover will be a number of powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid.

The model is expected to launch in 2021.

Source: Autocar

Jaguar R Models To Possibly Retire To Allow SVO Models To Shine

Mon, 02 Apr 2018 17:50:36 +0000

Seeing the R on a Jaguar model means one thing, high performance. But the launch of Jaguar Land Rover's Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) and SVR high-performance models is causing some confusion.

“We have found F-Type R and F-Type SVR kind of compete against each other. The truth of the matter is that F-Type R is a great car and, in some respects, SVR has a challenging time because the R is such a good car in the first place,” said Wayne Burgess, Jaguar SVO design director to Auto Express.

“To be completely honest Jaguar is a fairly small brand and probably in reality there is not enough room in each model line to have an R and an SVR.”

Burgess' comments hint that Jaguar could be dropping their R lineup in an effort to reduce confusion and allow SVR models “to shine”.

“We would rather have a genuine SVR halo in the line-up and then jump an R model – that is better way of doing things. In a model line that doesn’t have an R, it can allow SVR to really shine.

We're beginning to see this idea take root. At last week's New York Auto Show, Jaguar unveiled the F-Pace SVR with a supercharged V8 producing 542 horsepower.

Source: Auto Express

Jaguar's Head of Design Says Next XJ Will Be Larger, Sportier

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 14:51:10 +0000

Back in December, Jaguar's head of Design, Ian Callum revealed that work had begun on the next-generation XJ. Not many details were given except that the new XJ would be "something quite special." This week at the Geneva Motor show, Callum let loose a few more details.

A key complaint about the current XJ is a cramped interior. Callum said the new model would address this issue.

“It’ll be different. And it will have more room inside it. One of the biggest criticisms XJ has had is that a lot of people think the room inside the car is not big enough. I don’t believe in segmentation like this — I don’t believe in an F Segment as such,” explained Callum.

“I think we should just do a luxury vehicle that matches people well. That’s what we’ve done for XJ, which is what the first one was all about. A lot of our market is far-eastern and people are using these big cars to be driven in, so we must accommodate that better.”

The next XJ will about the size of a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, but Callum said the XJ will be focused more as a driver’s car.

“I never saw XJ as an S-Class competitor. Mercedes-Benz have created that place — the three-box limo sedan,” said Callum.

“I just don’t think that’s a Jaguar. A Jaguar is a sportier entity and it should reflect that. Yes it will take four [people] to market in comfort and luxury, but that’s where the similarities stop. It will still be a driver’s car. I don’t think many Mercedes-Benz S-Classes are driver’s cars, with the exception of AMGs or something. If you drive an XJR575, it’s a driver’s car. It just happens to be able to take three people in comfort. I don’t buy this segmentation.”

CarAdvice expects we'll see the next XJ at the end of this year. But as we reported previously, Callum said the new XJ wouldn't debut in 2018. We're expecting to see it sometime next year at the earliest.

Source: CarAdvice

2019 Jaguar I-Pace to Start At $70,495

Wed, 07 Mar 2018 20:45:36 +0000

Jaguar has revealed the pricing for the upcoming I-Pace EV and it significantly undercuts the Tesla Model X. A base model I-Pace will set you back $70,495 with destination and not including the various federal and state incentives. This is about $10,000 less than the base Model X 75D, although the Model X is slightly bigger than the I-Pace.

For that price, you get a 90-kWh battery pack providing an estimated range of 240 miles. This feeds two electric motors that provide a total output of 394 horsepower and 512 pound-feet of torque. Using a 100-kW DC fast charger will give the battery an 80 percent charge in 40 minutes. This increases 10.1 hours when using a 230-volt, 32-amp Level 2 home charger.

Jaguar has been taking orders for the I-Pace since the first of this month and deliveries are expected to begin in the second half of 2018.

Source: Jaguar
Press Release is on Page 2

U.S. PRICING ANNOUNCED FOR JAGUAR I-PACE

All-electric Jaguar I-PACE priced from $69,500 (1) in the U.S.
Equipped with a 90kWh battery, the I-PACE delivers an estimated range of up to 240 miles (2)
Owners can achieve 80 percent battery charge from empty in approximately 40 minutes using 100kW DC fast chargers (3)
0-80 percent charge at home using a 230V AC wall box can be achieved in just over 10 hours (3)
U.S. customer deliveries to begin during the second half of 2018
Since the debut of the Jaguar I-PACE Concept, U.S. customers have been registering their interest to purchase the new Jaguar I-PACE at www.jaguarusa.com
As of March 1, Jaguar retailers have been able to place customer orders for the new I-PACE
Jaguar I-PACE to make its North American debut at the 2018 New York International Auto Show

(MAHWAH, N.J.) – March 6, 2018: Following its public debut at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show, today Jaguar announced U.S. pricing for the 2019 Jaguar I-PACE.

Priced from $69,500 before federal and local government incentives1, the Jaguar I-PACE establishes a new mid-size premium battery electric vehicle (BEV) segment.

“With the debut of the Jaguar I-PACE, Jaguar in the U.S. is officially in the luxury electric vehicle business and our retailers and customers are placing orders,” said Joe Eberhardt, President and CEO of Jaguar Land Rover North America. “In partnership with our retailers who are investing in new facilities and EV infrastructure, we have a proactive market strategy led by very competitive pricing and the Jaguar EliteCare electric vehicle ownership package. We think the entire journey of buying, owning and driving an I-PACE will be one our customers will love for life.”

Featuring a 90kWh battery, the I-PACE delivers an estimated range of up to 240 miles and 0-60mph acceleration in as little as 4.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 124mph2,4.

I-PACE owners will have the convenience of using both AC and DC power to charge their vehicle; with 0-80 percent charge achievable in approximately 40 minutes using a 100kW public fast charger, or just over 10 hours using a 230V/32amp charger3.

Estimated Charging Times³:

	0 – 80% Charge	0 – 100% Charge
AC Charge Time - Domestic 7kW – (Single Phase, 230V/32A)	Approx. 10.1 hrs	Approx. 12.6 hrs
DC Charge Time - Commercial 50kW	Approx. 85 mins
DC Charge Time - Commercial 100kW	Approx. 40 mins

CHARGING AT HOME

In-home charging is facilitated by the vehicle’s 7kW on-board charger and a Mode 2 universal cable which will ship with the vehicle as standard. Using the mode 2 charger, I-PACE customers will be able to charge via a domestic 110V or 230V wall socket.

Customers may also chose to have a Level 2, 230V/32amp charger installed inside or outside of their home. To help Jaguar customers have home chargers installed, Jaguar Land Rover will be developing a nationwide network of certified independent electricians, which will be the subject of a future announcement.

RETAILER NETWORK AND INVESTMENTS

In conjunction with the expansion of the Jaguar and Land Rover model lineups, including its first electrified vehicles, Jaguar and Land Rover retailers have committed to invest $1.5B on new facilities and enhanced owner experiences over the next 5 years in North America. The new retail facility design standard to be adopted by retailers nationwide creates modern dual branded retail environments. There are 207 total dealerships in the United States, including 166 Jaguar franchises.

In the lead up to the start of sales for I-PACE later this year, retailers have also heavily invested in the training of their sales and service personnel to better understand the EV market; concerns owners may have throughout the purchase process; the intricacies on how to repair these vehicles and how to do so safely.

Jaguar & Land Rover retailers have already begun installation of electric vehicle charging equipment, getting ready to sell and service Jaguar and Land Rover electrified vehicles when they go on sale beginning in the second half of 2018.

Jaguar To Reveal I-Pace EV On March 1st

Wed, 31 Jan 2018 18:25:35 +0000

Jaguar has been busy teasing their first electric vehicle, the I-Pace since it made its debut at the 2016 LA Auto Show. Now we have a date when Jaguar will reveal the production model.

On March 1st, Jaguar will do a livestream debuting the production I-Pace - only a few days before the start of the Geneva Motor Show. Jaguar will also open up the order books for the EV.

But there is also an interesting tidbit that the British automaker dropped. The I-Pace is able to get an 80 percent charge of the battery within 45 minutes when plugged into 100-kW DC fast-charging station.

Source: Jaguar
Press Release is on Page 2

JAGUAR I-PACE CONCEPT UNDERGOES COLD WEATHER TESTING IN ARJEPLOG, SWEDEN

The all-electric Jaguar I-PACE will support rapid charging and offer exceptional performance when it goes on sale later this year.

All-wheel drive performance tested in Artic conditions at -40°F
Jaguar confirms the I-PACE will support DC Fast Charging from zero to 80 percent in approximately 45 minutes (1)
Jaguar I-PACE to be revealed via live broadcast on March 1, 2018 at 1:00PM ET ahead of Motor Show Debut at Geneva on March 6
WATCH: Scandinavian customer tests I-PACE in extreme conditions https://youtu.be/VOnPjpFa3DU

(MAHWAH, N.J) – January 30, 2018 – The all-electric Jaguar I-PACE will support rapid charging and offer exceptional performance when it goes on sale later this year. Capable of a DC fast charge from zero to 80 percent in approximately 45 minutes1 with a 100kW charger and with sports car performance and SUV practicality, the I-PACE will be well equipped for everyday use – whether on the school run, daily commute or even coping with sub-zero temperatures.

The Jaguar I-PACE has been rigorously tested across extremes of terrain and temperature at the Jaguar Land Rover cold weather test facility in Arjeplog, Sweden, at temperatures as low as -40°F.

Tony Westerlund, a potential customer from Sweden, had some interesting questions on living with I-PACE in Arctic conditions, particularly regarding stability and traction on the ice and snow. To answer his questions, Jaguar engineers invited him to Arjeplog to drive the car for the first time and see how it’s been tested to ensure performance in extreme conditions: https://youtu.be/VOnPjpFa3DU.

“Not only will the I-PACE charge quickly enough for our customers to carry out their everyday lives, it will offer powerful and precise performance in a variety of conditions and climactic extremes. Allied with the versatile credentials of our celebrated PACE family, this will be an electric performance SUV like no other,” said Ian Hoban, Jaguar Vehicle Line Director.

While plugged into power, customers will be able to prepare the car’s battery and cabin temperature ahead of a journey without tapping into the battery’s range. Pre-conditioning the car ensures maximum range, performance and comfort whether temperatures are freezing cold or extremely hot. Setting up preferred charging times and pre-conditioning schedules can be done from either the on-board Jaguar InControl® system2, or the Jaguar InControl® Remote™ smartphone app.

The Jaguar I-PACE will be revealed in a live global broadcast on March 1, 2018 at 1:00PM ET/19:00 CET and will go on to make its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show on March 6, 2018. To find out more about the all-electric performance SUV ahead of its reveal, or to be one of the first to own one, click the ‘I want one’ button at: www.jaguarusa.com

Rumorpile: Next-Generation Jaguar XJ To Transition To Electric-Only

Mon, 22 Jan 2018 21:30:01 +0000

Last month, we reported that work had begun on the next-generation Jaguar XJ. The company's director of design Ian Callum said it would be "something quite special." What that may mean is the next XJ transition to being an electric-only model.

Autocar has learned that Jaguar is planning to reinvent the XJ into being a fully-electric model to take on the like of the Tesla Model S, and provide an interesting alternative to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Design-wise, the XJ will morph into a 5-door model - something akin to an Audi A7 we're guessing. It will also debut a new design language that will be used on future models.

In terms of platform, the new XJ will use an all-new platform that will be shared with an upcoming model from Land Rover - the Road Rover we reported in the Rumorpile back in September. The platform will be capable of being equipped with internal-combustion or electric powertrains. For the XJ, it is believed that twin electric motors will be used to power and provide AWD.

Autocar expects the car launch in 2019.

Source: Autocar

Jaguar's Director of Design Says Next XJ To Be "Something Quite Special"

Sun, 31 Dec 2017 17:49:31 +0000

Back in the spring, we reported that the fate of the XJ flagship was uncertain due to comments made by their North American product manager. But it seems there will be another generation of the XJ.

Speaking with Car, Jaguar's director of design Ian Callum revealed that work has begun on the next XJ.

"We’ve gone through a lot of debate on the XJ and come up with something quite special," said Callum.

"I won’t say when it’s coming but it’s not next year."

The last line is important as 2018 will mark the 50th anniversary of the XJ sedan.

Callum wouldn't divulge any other details about the XJ. Car reported last year that the XJ could transition to an electric model using the platform that underpins the upcoming i-Pace EV.

Source: Car

Rumorpile: Jaguar Land Rover Is Looking To Acquire An Automaker

Mon, 25 Sep 2017 15:52:50 +0000

Jaguar Land Rover has been on a bit of a roll ever since being taken in by Indian company Tata Group. But the British automaker is considering possibly acquiring another brand. Various sources have told Bloomberg that internal discussions have been taking place about buying up another brand, specifically one that fits in with their current lineup. Senior officials at Tata believe Jaguar Land Rover "needs to bulk up to stay competitive, and the Indian conglomerate is willing to provide financial support for potential acquisitions if needed, one of the people said."

Jaguar Land Rover play a significant role in Tata Group's revenues. According to Bloomberg data, 78 percent of Tata's revenue comes from the luxury brands.

It is unclear which brands could be under consideration for JLR. Bloomberg does mention Alfa Romeo and Maserati, which was rumored to be possibly spun off from FCA.

The report also notes that JLR is considering purchasing tech companies that would boost their efforts on autonomous vehicles and electric powertrains.

Source: Bloomberg

Jaguar Land Rover Announce Plans To Electrify All Models Beginning in 2020

Thu, 07 Sep 2017 17:13:21 +0000

It seems Volvo has started a trend when it announced back in July that all their models beginning in 2019 would be electrified in some form, i.e. hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric powertrains. Today, Jaguar Land Rover announced that it would be doing the same thing beginning in 2020. Much like Volvo, JLR's electrification plans include electrics, hybrids, and plug-in hybrids.

Every new Jaguar Land Rover model line will be electrified from 2020, giving our customers even more choice. We will introduce a portfolio of electrified products across our model range, embracing fully electric, plug-in hybrid and mild hybrid vehicles. Our first fully electric performance SUV, the Jaguar I-PACE, goes on sale next year," said Jaguar Land Rover CEO Ralf Speth at the company's Tech Fest taking place at the University of the Arts London.

Jaguar also used the event to show off a new, electrified retrofit of the E-Type. Called the E-Type Zero, Jaguar Land Rover Classic swapped the six-cylinder for a new electric powertrain. Jaguar says the E-Type Zero can hit 60 mph in 5.5 seconds and have a range of 170 miles.

Source: Jaguar Land Rover
Press Release is on Page 2

EVERY JAGUAR AND LAND ROVER LAUNCHED FROM 2020 WILL BE ELECTRIFIED

From 2020 all new Jaguar Land Rover vehicles will be electrified. The company made the announcement at its inaugural Tech Fest, a series of debates and a free public exhibition about the future of mobility.
Commitment to electrification demonstrated with new electric models from Jaguar’s past, present and future at inaugural Tech Fest event
Past – iconic Jaguar E-type now electrified for the 21st century
Present – all-new electric Jaguar I-PACE Concept, the SUV that combines a supercar silhouette with sports car performance, goes on sale next year
Future – visionary FUTURE-TYPE virtual concept imagines autonomous, connected, electric and shared mobility for 2040 and beyond
Jaguar Land Rover Tech Fest takes place at Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London
Free-to-enter festival open from Friday 8 September to Sunday 10 September

From 2020 all new Jaguar Land Rover vehicles will be electrified. The company made the announcement at its inaugural Tech Fest, a series of debates and a free public exhibition about the future of mobility.

"Every new Jaguar Land Rover model line will be electrified from 2020, giving our customers even more choice. We will introduce a portfolio of electrified products across our model range, embracing fully electric, plug-in hybrid and mild hybrid vehicles. Our first fully electric performance SUV, the Jaguar I-PACE, goes on sale next year," said Dr. Ralf Speth, Chief Executive Officer, Jaguar Land Rover.

Jaguar E-type Zero
The electric Jaguar E-type Zero future-proofs one of the world’s most famous cars. Acclaimed by Enzo Ferrari as “the most beautiful car in the world”, the E-type now combines breathtaking design with electric power for the first time. E-type Zero is based on a 1968 Series 1.5 Roadster and features a cutting-edge electric powertrain for 0-60mph in just 5.5sec. It was engineered by Jaguar Classic at the company’s new Classic Works in Warwickshire, UK.

Jaguar I-PACE Concept
With I-PACE we started with a clean sheet and engineered a bespoke, tailored, pure electric SUV from the ground up, creating a beautiful design with everyday practicality. It’s a performance SUV, it looks stunning, is great to drive and will be on sale next year.

Jaguar FUTURE-TYPE
The Jaguar FUTURE-TYPE is a vision for the car of 2040 and beyond. The fully autonomous virtual concept explores mobility for the connected world of tomorrow, where vehicles could be shared not owned.

With Future Type’s interface you can separately access your different digital orbits of work, family or play, dialling up what you do need, and dialling down what you don’t.

At its heart is Sayer – the intelligent steering wheel that will revolutionise the way you live your life. Named after Malcolm Sayer, designer of the E-type, this steering wheel doesn't just stay in your car – it lives in your home and becomes your trusted companion.

Sayer is the first voice activated AI steering wheel that will be able to carry out hundreds of tasks. The advanced speech recognition software will allow it to answer your questions, connect you to the news, organise your travel and select your entertainment.

Sayer knows what's in your fridge and can even order your shopping or a pizza. You will never run out of milk again. It will be your go-to device. It is not just the ‘key’ to your car, it’s your membership card for our on-demand service club. A club which offers either sole ownership or the option of sharing the car with others in your community.

For our customers, driving is about much more than getting from A to B. It’s about living life from A to Z. You will always be able to experience the sheer thrill of driving with the option to take the wheel. But this is a steering wheel like never before.

2018 Jaguar XJR575 Adds More Power

Mon, 24 Jul 2017 19:06:00 +0000

While Jaguar has been busy with the likes of the F-Pace and brand new E-Pace, the XJ flagship has been languishing away. There was the thought that the XJ could go to the great junkyard in the sky. But Jaguar has brought some new updates for the 2018 XJ.

Let us focus on the big news first, the XJR575. Serving as the performance flagship model for the XJ, the 575 uses a supercharged 5.0: V8 with 575 horsepower (up 25) and 516 pound-feet. An eight-speed automatic routes power to the rear wheels. 0-60 takes 4.4 seconds and the XJR575 will hit a top speed of 186 mph.

To help it stand apart from the standard XJR, the 575 comes with a new aero package, hood vents, 20-inch gloss black wheels, red brake calipers, and two colors created by the Special Vehicle Operations division; Velocity Blue and Satin Corris Grey.

All XJs will benefit from a new 10-inch touchscreen, 4G LTE with Wi-Fi capability, emergency braking, blind spot assist, lane keep assist, and park assist.

Pricing details for the 2018 XJ will be announced at a later date.

Source: Jaguar
Press Release is on Page 2

GONE IN 44 SECONDS - NEW JAGUAR XJR575 HOSTS 186MPH INTERVIEW

Jaguar designer Wayne Burgess answers questions at top speed to mark launch of new performance saloon
Wayne Burgess, Production Studio Director and SVO Projects at Jaguar, quizzed by TV presenter and racer Amanda Stretton, at top speed in the back of the new 2018 Jaguar XJR575 (1)
186 mph XJR575 has more power than any previous XJ (1)
Full-size performance sedan accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 4.2 seconds – and reaches top speed in just 44 seconds (1)
5.0-liter Supercharged V8 engine produces 517 lb. ft. of torque
The XJR575 continues a heritage of luxurious refinement and interior comfort for Jaguar sedans featuring upgraded performance and unique design touches
Electronic Active Differential enables fine control of power delivery and maximizes traction
Two new available paint options from Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division ensure XJR575 is more unique than ever
Enhancements to Jaguar Touch Pro Infotainment system include addition of a larger 10-inch touchscreen and available 4G Wi-Fi2, (3)
Intelligent driver assistance measures include Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Park Assist and Driver Condition Monitoring (4)

Jaguar has launched its latest full-size super sedan, the new 2018 XJR575, with a high-speed interview starring Jaguar designer Wayne Burgess being questioned by TV presenter and race driver Amanda Stretton as the performance sedan accelerates to its top speed of 186mph.1

Lasting just 44 seconds – the time it takes the fastest iteration of the XJ sedan to reach its top speed – Burgess gave a quick-fire insight into the development of the potent new model.

The high velocity interview was almost over before it began, but the unrelenting acceleration of the new XJ flagship did not stop Burgess, Production Studio Director and SVO Projects Director at Jaguar, from providing a unique take on the performance sedan.

"I have done plenty of short interviews in my time, but nothing quite like this! It might have been a bit of fun but doesn’t it just demonstrate perfectly the extreme performance of the new XJR575. I could barely finish answering those quick-fire questions before we hit 186mph and then it was all over! Can we go again?"

- WAYNE BURGESS, PRODUCTION STUDIO DIRECTOR AND SVO PROJECTS, JAGUAR

The XJR575 is the new performance flagship for the XJ range; its 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine benefits from a healthy 25 horsepower increase – from 550HP to 575HP – which delivers a 0-60mph time of just 4.2 seconds1. Coupled with 517 lb. ft. of available torque, the new addition to the XJ range effortlessly accelerates from a standstill while drivers benefit from Jaguar’s characteristic interior refinement.

Customers will be able to choose between two bespoke exterior color finishes created by Special Vehicle Operations – Velocity Blue and Satin Corris Grey – while additional tailor-made exterior details include a rear spoiler, side sills, front bumper and lower air intakes featuring gloss black surrounds.

Updated exterior badging and twin hood louvers distinguish the vehicle from the rest of the range, as do the red brake callipers that accompany the 20-inch 5 Split-Spoke 'Style 5044' gloss-black wheels. Bespoke embossed tread plates alongside intaglio and diamond-quilted seating add a final flourish to the interior of the XJR575.

"This is a performance vehicle, but that doesn’t mean we have had to cut any corners when it comes to comfort or design. Jaguar is the standard bearer for interior refinement and the XJR575 is no different. It can go very quickly, but it does so with the serene comfort customers expect from a Jaguar saloon. That makes this a very special car indeed."

- IAN CALLUM, DIRECTOR OF DESIGN, JAGUAR

Further announcements for the rest of the core 2018 Jaguar XJ range and U.S. pricing will follow later this year. For additional information please visit www.JaguarUSA.com or your local retailer.

2018 Jaguar E-Pace Hopes To Strike Lightning Twice

Thu, 13 Jul 2017 19:46:52 +0000

The Jaguar F-Pace has proven to be quite the success, selling 9,559 units through June and sitting on top of the company's sales charts. Jaguar hopes they can strike gold once again with the 2018 E-Pace that made its debut today.

Compared to the F-Pace, the E-Pace is about foot shorter in overall length. Many design cues from the F-Pace are here such as a tall beltline, sculpted rear fenders, an F-Type-inspired rear tailgate, and slim taillights. The interior looks to be directly lifted from F-Type with a similar center stack layout - including the grab handle on the passenger side. All models get a 10-inch touchscreen with the latest version of Jaguar Land Rover's InTouch Pro infotainment system and two USB ports - optional is each seat getting a USB port.

The U.S. will get a turbocharged 2.0L inline-four in two states of tune; 246 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque or 296 and 295 if you opt for the R-Dynamic. Power flows through a nine-speed automatic to all four wheels. 0-60 takes 6.6 seconds with the standard 2.0L and 5.9 seconds with the R-Dynamic.

Interestingly, the E-Pace isn't based on the platform that underpins the F-Pace. Instead, it uses the same platform that you'll find under the Range Rover Evoque. Jaguar has made some changes to it to make it feel more Jaguar-y with a multi-link suspension setup for the front and rear, stiffer bushings, and a set of anti-roll bars. An optional Configurable Dynamics package will bring adaptive dampers to tune the ride to your liking.

The E-Pace arrives in the U.S. early next year with a base price of $39,595 with destination.

Source: Jaguar

NEW JAGUAR E-PACE ROLLS INTO THE RECORD BOOKS

– All new Jaguar E-PACE revealed with epic barrel roll
– Dynamic twist sets an official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the Furthest Barrel Roll in a Production Vehicle5
– Final test proves E-PACE lives up to the Jaguar ‘Art of Performance’ philosophy
– Inspiration from one of cinema’s most iconic car stunts
– Attitude and stance come as standard with Jaguar’s new compact performance SUV
– Sports car looks with SUV practicality for the next generation of Jaguar customers
– Agile, responsive chassis and sports car driveline technology make E-PACE the hot hatch of its segment
– Next-generation digital tech keeps you connected, with available 4G Wi-Fi, and a 10-inch touchscreen as standard
– Standard all-wheel drive keeps you connected to the road in adverse conditions
– Priced from $38,600, customers can order and configure their Jaguar E-PACE at www.jaguarusa.com

(LONDON, U.K.) – July 13, 2017 - The new Jaguar E-PACE has set an official GUINNESS WORLD RECORD™ title during its world premiere. The compact performance SUV leapt into the record books with a 50 foot-long jump, complete with a 270-degree corkscrew-like ‘barrel roll’.

Demonstrating the agility, precision and performance of the newest Jaguar SUV, the feat was the final test for E-PACE after 25 grueling months of work across four continents to test extreme durability and that it lived up to the Jaguar ‘Art of Performance’ philosophy.

The Jaguar E-PACE is a five-seat, compact SUV that packs the design and performance of a Jaguar sports car into a practical and connected all-wheel drive vehicle.

Trademark Jaguar driving dynamics and design put the brand’s sports car DNA in a practical design, packed with advanced technologies to keep you connected. The E-PACE is the newest member of the Jaguar SUV family, joining the all electric I-PACE Concept and the 2017 World Car of the Year winner, the Jaguar F-PACE, which was launched in 2015 with a spectacular GUINNESS WORLD RECORD™ setting loop-the-loop.

The E-PACE exterior design is inspired by the Jaguar F-TYPE sports car and characterized by the distinctive Jaguar grill, muscular proportions, short overhangs and powerful haunches that give the vehicle a bold and purposeful stance, instantly communicating its dynamic agility. Jaguar sports car DNA is also evident in the fast sweep of the roofline and the distinctive side window design.

Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar, said, “Established Jaguar design principles ensure the E-PACE is immediately recognizable as the sports car of its class. Our new compact SUV combines the interior space, connectivity and security that families expect with the kind of proportions, purity of design and performance not usually associated with such a practical vehicle.”

The E-PACE completed its world record jump at ExCeL in London – one of only a handful of venues in the UK big enough to accommodate the 525-foot run-up and run-off, vital for the 50-foot leap. Behind the wheel was stunt driver Terry Grant, who has completed stunts on many film sets and holds an impressive 21 GUINNESS WORLD RECORD™ titles.

Grant said, “As far as I am aware, no production car has ever cleanly completed a bona-fide barrel roll and therefore it has always been an ambition of mine to perform one ever since I was a boy. After driving the Jaguar F-PACE in the record-breaking loop-the-loop, it has been amazing to help launch the next chapter of the PACE family in an even more dramatic dynamic feat.”

Unsurprisingly, the barrel roll is not one to be tried at home. Months of testing and analysis were completed to fine-tune the stunt, including achieving precisely the correct speed of run-up. The ramps were modeled extensively using CAD before any jumps took place. Terry experienced a G-Force of 5.5 during the 270 degree twist, and required a 525-foot run up to hit the air at the correct speed.

Guinness World Record™ adjudicator Pravin Patel said, “This amazing feat really was a sight to behold.
While I’ve seen the barrel roll stunt in film, witnessing this incredible feat in real life was something pretty
special. Congratulations to Terry and Jaguar for setting another epic Guinness World Record ™ title.”
The reveal of the E-PACE was followed by a spectacular musical performance by Pete Tong & The
Heritage Orchestra who presented the now legendary Ibiza Classics.

As a celebration of the new Jaguar
E-PACE, Pete collaborated with singer-songwriter Raye to perform “You Don’t Know Me” by Jax Jones -
a hit that features Raye and has over 230 million plays on Spotify and over 130 million YouTube views.
Tong said, "I've been working with the Heritage Orchestra for the past couple of years but this is the first
time I've been involved in something like this, it's very exciting and I'm glad to be a part of it! Jaguar
breaking the Guinness World Record for the barrel roll was mind-blowing. This creative approach to
revealing the new Jaguar E-PACE was the inspiration behind the collaboration between myself and Raye
and we are now planning to put the track on my new album."

The Jaguar E-PACE: Connected, Intelligent, Agile, Responsive

The Jaguar E-PACE is connected and intelligent. A 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system comes as
standard and connects customers to their favorite apps, including Spotify. The standard InControl Remote
& Protect system automatically alerts emergency services in case of an accident and allows you to check
fuel levels and mileage remotely via a smartphone or smartwatch. Customers can also warm up the
vehicle or cool it down via their smartphone as part of this system.

Digital connectivity can be found throughout the cabin, ready for every need of the modern family. There
are up to four 12-volt charging points and five USB connections as well as an optional 4G Wi-Fi hotspot
for up to eight devices.

The compact SUV can seat five in comfort with generous rear legroom, while the large luggage space is
made possible by the vehicle’s sophisticated Integral Link rear suspension architecture.

The optional Configurable Dynamics system gives the driver even more control with individual settings for
the throttle, automatic transmission, steering, and, where fitted, the Adaptive Dynamics suspension
system3. The optional Adaptive Dynamics system is designed to sense driver input, body and wheel
movements and pre-emptively loads the suspension and chassis and adjusts the damping for improved
roll control and agility.

The E-PACE is available with the choice of two 2.0-liter turbocharged Ingenium gasoline engines. The
flagship 296HP Ingenium engine powers the sporting SUV from 0-60mph in just 5.9 seconds (6.4
seconds for the 0-100km/h sprint) before reaching an electronically-limited top speed of 152mph
(243km/h).

The Active Driveline all-wheel-drive system in R-Dynamic models is a technological first for Jaguar. The
intelligent set-up combines all-wheel drive traction with Jaguar’s unmistakable rear-wheel-drive feel. The
system’s torque-biasing capability delivers added stability and dynamics in varying conditions and
weather.

The E-PACE features the very latest driver assistance technologies as standard equipment. A stereo
camera underpins the advanced Autonomous Emergency Braking system, which supports Lane Keep
Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition, as well as the Intelligent Speed Limiter and Driver Condition Monitor
systems. Front and rear parking aids are also standard.

The camera also combines with the electric power assisted steering system and rear radars to deliver a
Blind Spot Assist function, to help reduce the risk of sideswipe collisions on multi-lane roads. A new
Forward Traffic Detection system also warns drivers of approaching vehicles at junctions where visibility
is restricted.

The E-PACE is the first Jaguar vehicle to feature the company’s next-generation Head-Up Display
technology. The advanced display can project up to 66 percent more information onto the windshield
using large, full-color graphics with enhanced clarity. Essential information including vehicle speed and
navigation directions are in full view at all times, with alerts and updates for the infotainment and
convenience features all projected in the driver’s eyeline.

An optional 12.3-inch full color digital instrument panel and choice of two premium audio systems
developed with Meridian™ put the E-PACE on a par with its class when it comes to interior technology.
The E-PACE is also available with Jaguar’s innovative wearable Activity Key. The waterproof and
shockproof wristband has an integrated transponder, allowing the driver to lock the main key inside the
vehicle when enjoying outdoor pursuits such as running or cycling.

Whenever the Activity Key is activated, by holding the wristband up to the upper edge of the license plate
surround on the tailgate, any conventional key fobs left inside the vehicle are disabled.

Jaguar Land Rover has confirmed that the newest member of its Jaguar PACE family, the E-PACE, will
be manufactured in Europe and Asia to satisfy expected customer demand for the compact SUV. From
late 2017, the Jaguar E-PACE will be the first vehicle to be produced as part of Jaguar Land Rover’s
contract manufacturing agreement with Magna Steyr, an operating unit of Magna Inc, in Austria. It will be
joined by the all-electric Jaguar I-PACE from 2018. The Jaguar E-PACE will be also be manufactured at
Chery Jaguar Land Rover’s state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Changshu exclusively for Chinese
customers.

Jaguar Land Rover SVO Division Dreams of A Standalone Sports Car

Sat, 01 Jul 2017 15:03:55 +0000

Jaguar Land Rover's Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division has only been around for few years, but it has been making a mark in the industry. The division has launched a number of models such as the Range Rover Sport SVR, the F-Type Project 7, and recently, the XE SV Project 8. But SVO has big dreams as it wants to create its own bespoke model.

“Deep down we want to make our own model. Just look at the success of the [Mercedes] AMG GT,” said John Edwards, JLR’s managing director of Special Vehicle Operations to Auto Express.

But this is something that will happen down the road. Edwards emphasized that SVO needs to get their Project vehicles just right before moving on to a standalone model. Possible candidates for the next project could be either the F-Pace or upcoming Range Rover Velar.

Source: Auto Express

Jaguar XE SV Project 8 Packs 592 Horsepower

Wed, 28 Jun 2017 17:54:58 +0000

Jaguar has decided to go bat-sh*t crazy in the high-performance compact sedan marketplace with the launch of the XE SV Project 8.

It begins with a supercharged 5.0L V8 engine with 592 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque - making this the most powerful Jaguar road car to date. This is paired up with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. 0-60 mph is said to take 3.3 seconds and it will hit a top speed of 200 mph.

Various body panels such as the front fenders, bumper, and hood are made out of carbon fiber. The fenders has also been widen to make room for meatier tires - 265-mm wide tires up front and 305-mm wide tires in the back. The front splitter and large rear wing are adjustable.

Under the skin, Jaguar has added stiffer springs, adjustable shocks, and a set of large carbon-ceramic brakes.

The interior has undergone some major changes with new front bucket seats featuring magnesium frames, sculpted rear seats, acres of Alcantara and carbon fiber, and the gear-lever from the F-Type. Europeans can option a Track Pack that removes the back seat for a rollcage; carbon fiber front seats with four-point harnesses, and a fire extinguisher system.

Jaguar hasn't announced pricing for the U.S., but it will cost £149,995 in the UK (about $190,252 at current exchange rates). Jaguar is only planning on building 300 Project 8s.

Source: Jaguar
Press Release is on Page 2

New Jaguar XE SV Project 8

New Jaguar XE SV Project 8 sits at the pinnacle of the world’s performance sedans, with a thrilling mix of explosive power, dynamic agility and all-wheel drive traction
Significant SVO enhancements made to award-winning XE include lightweight aluminium and carbon fibre exterior panels to meet extreme performance targets
200mph and 0-60mph in 3.3sec – supercar performance from Jaguar’s most compact four-door sedan
Limited-run of just 300 examples worldwide – exclusively left-hand drive
Project 8 is the most powerful Jaguar road car ever – and first road-legal Jaguar with a 600PS 5.0-litre supercharged V8
Project 8 will be the first car completely hand-assembled by SVO’s expert craftsmen at the new £20m SVO Technical Centre in Warwickshire, UK
Prices for Project 8 reflect the high-value engineering content and hand-built assembly process of this specialist car. Priced from £149,995 in UK
Project 8 will make its world debut on 30 June at Goodwood Festival of Speed

(Ryton-on-Dunsmore, UK – 28 June 2017) Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) has revealed the most powerful, agile and extreme performance Jaguar road car ever – the 200mph, 600PS XE SV Project 8 sedan.

The second Collector’s Edition by SVO, following the successful F-TYPE Project 7 of 2014, Project 8 is a hand-built four-door sedan with supercar performance – designed to thrill driving enthusiasts, with an extraordinary combination of explosive power, dynamic agility and all-wheel-drive traction. To ensure exclusivity, no more than 300 examples will be created, each assembled at SVO’s Technical Centre in Coventry.

John Edwards, Jaguar Land Rover Special Operations Managing Director, said: “SVO's raison d'être is to produce halo vehicles that push the boundaries in terms of luxury, performance and all-terrain capability. Project 8 is a great example of what happens when enthusiastic designers, engineers and manufacturing specialists are given the opportunity to create an extreme performance sports car without compromise.

“Project 8 will be assembled by hand in the new SVO Technical Centre, and we're confident that our enthusiastic and demanding clients will love driving Project 8 as much we do!"

Project 8 exclusively features the most highly tuned version of Jaguar Land Rover’s 5.0-litre Supercharged V8 petrol powertrain. The 600PS power unit, which has a Titanium Variable Active Exhaust, is complemented by Jaguar’s All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system and motorsport-derived aerodynamics to deliver a 200mph top speed and 0-60mph in 3.3sec*, making Project 8 the fastest accelerating Jaguar yet.

Fundamental to the performance of the most track-focused car SVO has ever produced, Project 8 features a number of purposeful modifications to the award-winning XE’s lightweight aluminium body panels, including: Carbon Fibre Bumper with enhanced Cooling Ducts, vented Carbon Fibre Bonnet, flared bodywork covering 20-inch forged aluminium alloy wheels, adjustable Front Splitter, Flat Underbody, rear Carbon Fibre Bumper, rear Diffuser and adjustable Rear Aerodynamic Wing. Project 8 will be the lightest V8 sedan in the Jaguar range.

Mark Stanton, SVO Director, said:“We have really been able to unleash the potential of our engineering and design teams in specifying Project 8. We are at the beginning of a very challenging and exciting development programme which will see us focus on ensuring Project 8 delivers track performance on a level previously not targeted by Jaguar.

“The SVO team is full of performance car enthusiasts that are now briefed to deliver motorsport science and soul in what is effectively a four-door supercar.”

To ensure optimum performance on road or track, Project 8 endows the XE’s double-wishbone front and Integral Link rear suspension with stiffer springs and manually adjustable Continuously Variable Dampers (giving a 15mm lower ride height for track use), debuts a new Carbon Ceramic Braking system, an industry-first use of Formula 1-style silicon nitride ceramic wheel bearings on a road car, and incorporates a rear Electronic Active Differential (EAD) with oil cooler – a first for XE.

The high-performance theme continues inside, with subtle applications of Gloss Carbon Fibre trim as well as Alcantara, on the rim of the Project 8 Sport Steering Wheel, instrument binnacle and door cards. The eight-speed Quickshift transmission can either be operated by aluminium paddle shifters behind the steering wheel or by a central Pistolshift lever – another first for XE.

Project 8 is also the first Jaguar to feature a dedicated Track Mode, which tailors driveline and stability control systems for circuit use, and sharpens both throttle and steering responses for ultimate precision and driver feedback.

Project 8 will be available in two specifications at launch. The standard four-seat model features Jaguar’s latest front Performance seats with magnesium frames, plus a more heavily contoured rear squab to maximise support. The optional two-seat Track Pack includes lightweight front Carbon Fibre Racing Seats with Four-Point Harnesses fixed to a Harness Retention Hoop in place of the rear seat. All Project 8s will be built in left-hand drive configuration only.

Full details of Project 8 are now online at www.jaguar.co.uk, including eight body colour choices – three eye-catching standard colours: Fuji White, Narvik Black and Caldera Red, plus five enhanced SVO Design options incorporating colours and finishes from the SVO Premium Palette: Valencia Orange, Velocity Blue, Meribel White, Verbier Silver and Corris Grey (satin matte).

Project 8 owners will also be able to personalise their car by opting for further colours and finishes from the SVO Premium Palette range, which includes 19 colours in tri-coat, tinted clear coat, pearlescent, ChromaFlairTM and satin matte finishes. Race-inspired decal packs, accentuating Project 8’s high-performance attributes, are also available.

The Jaguar XE SV Project 8 will make its world debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed in West Sussex, UK, which runs from 29 June – 2 July. Project 8 will make its dynamic world debut on the famous Goodwood Hill on Friday 30 June.

Jaguar Reveals 2018 XF Sportbrake, Arrives In North America This Winter

Wed, 14 Jun 2017 19:21:00 +0000

North America never got their hands on the first Jaguar XF Sportbrake, but the British automaker is making up for that with the debut of the second-generation XF Sportbrake.

Introduced today in the United Kingdom, the XF Sportbrake shares a lot with the sedan in terms of design. Both have the same front end styling with narrow headlights and aggressive bumper. Where it differs is in the back as Jaguar extended the roofline and installed a tailgate that is somewhat similar to the one seen on the F-Pace crossover. The longer roofline also means more cargo space. Open the rear hatch and you're greeted with 31.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats. Fold them to expand the space to 69.7 cubic feet.

Jaguar will only offer one engine for North America; a supercharged 3.0L V6 offering up 380 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. This comes paired with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. Jaguar has made some changes to the XF Sportbrake's suspension. The back swaps the coil springs for a self-leveling rear air suspension to cope with heavy weight.

Pricing for the 2018 XF Sportbrake begins at $71,445 (includes a $995.00 destination charge) and will arrive at dealers this winter.

Source: Jaguar
Press Release is on Page 2

Introducing the new Jaguar XF Sportbrake: grace, space and pace for the 21st century

All-new body-style joins the Jaguar line-up this Winter as the first XF wagon to be offered in the United States by Jaguar
Smart design delivers an aerodynamic efficiency of 0.29Cd
31.7-cu. ft. of loadspace expands to 69.7-cu. ft. with the 40:20:40 split folding second row seats lowered
Self-leveling rear Integral-Link air suspension ensures an effortless ride even when carrying a load
Convenience features such as an all-new available Gesture Controlled Blind for the panoramic sunroof enhance the practicality of the new wagon
All-new optional Cabin Ionization system filters air and reduces pollutants entering the vehicle
Powered by a 380HP supercharged V6 mated to a ZF® eight-speed automatic transmission
Standard all-wheel drive offers added confidence in adverse conditions (1)
Priced from $70,450 (2)

(MAHWAH, N.J.) – June 14, 2017 - The new Jaguar XF Sportbrake returns Jaguar to the premium wagon segment with a compelling combination of design, driving dynamics and advanced technologies that make it a standout performer.

Available user-friendly features and technologies make the Sportbrake the perfect companion for customers with active lifestyles.

With a design that retains the distinctive curves of the sedan at the front, the new XF Sportbrake embodies key Jaguar design DNA and incorporates an eye-catching roofline, which sets it apart from competitors. Its sleek silhouette projects a dynamic and purposeful profile that previews the amount of space available inside.

The interior provides spacious accommodation flooded with natural light from the full-length panoramic sunroof. Rear occupants benefit from enhanced knee room and improved headroom, while the practical layout creates more than 69 cu-ft of loadspace behind the first row.

“As with the XF sedan, every line on the Sportbrake serves a clear purpose, creating a fast sweeping silhouette,” said Jaguar Director of Design, Ian Callum. “This gives the car a sense of speed and a very dynamic appearance. As a result, I think it looks just as sporty as the sedan, if not more so.”

The new XF Sportbrake builds on the success of the sedan and has all of the advanced all-wheel drive (AWD) technologies1 and aluminum-intensive architectures that have made the Jaguar XF popular.

The suspension set-up has been specially calibrated to reflect the demands placed on premium lifestyle wagons. The stiff and lightweight set-up gives the spacious wagon signature Jaguar dynamics – a sports car-inspired character with agile handling and dynamic responses. Self-leveling rear air suspension is fitted as standard to ensure the XF Sportbrake maintains its composure, even when fully loaded.

The standard Adaptive Dynamics with Configurable Dynamics system enables drivers to fine-tune settings for the steering, transmission and throttle. Customers can also tune the suspension settings for an even more personalized driving experience1.

Advanced software functions developed by Jaguar Land Rover, such as All Surface Progress Control (ASPC), Adaptive Surface Response (AdSR) and Intelligent Driveline Dynamics (IDD)4 put the vehicle’s traction in low-grip situations and cornering ability on the same level as the sedan.

All-wheel drive and the Jaguar IDD system come as standard, helping to minimize understeer and electronic interventions that typically characterize dynamic driving in all-wheel drive models. As a result, the AWD XF Sportbrake retains trademark Jaguar rear-wheel drive feel and agile steering responses4.

The XF Sportbrake features an aluminum-intensive body construction which delivers a lightweight design that is both stiffer and lighter than the previous generation XF wagon which was offered outside the United States. Featuring an innovative new single-piece polymer tailgate, the Sportbrake delivers a near perfect 50:50 front-to-rear weight distribution providing the foundations for its exceptional handling.

Measuring 195.0-in in length, with a wheelbase of 116.5-in, rear legroom and load space has been optimized and contributes to the vehicle’s refined ride quality.

The XF Sportbrake features the Jaguar 380HP supercharged V6 gasoline engine as standard. Paired with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission and advanced all-wheel drive, this combination provides sports car performance; achieving 0-60mph times of just 5.3 seconds3.

“The XF Sportbrake is the embodiment of everything our brand stands for, bringing together Jaguar design and dynamics to create vehicles that excite the senses and support active lifestyles,” said Steven de Ploey, Global Marketing Strategy and Planning Director, Jaguar. “It’s dynamic performance, desirable styling and cutting-edge technologies will introduce a new generation of drivers to Jaguar’s drive, passion and comfort.”

The XF Sportbrake is the perfect choice for customers with active lifestyles and features a series of new optional convenience features that enhance the practicality of the premium wagon. These include a wearable Activity Key, which lets users secure their vehicle while enjoying outdoor sports or activities without fear of losing their main key fob. Drivers are also able to set the maximum opening height for the gesture tailgate to prevent damage in areas where height is restricted, such as multi-story parking lots and garages.

Optional Cabin Air Filtration and Ionization prevents air pollutants from entering the vehicle and removes contaminants from the air, promoting health and wellness, while optional gesture controls for both the tailgate and the sunblind for the panoramic sunroof underline the brand’s commitment to customer convenience.

A full suite of driver assistance features are available, bolstered by Jaguar Driver Condition Monitor which is designed to examine a range of inputs to detect signs of drowsiness and to warn drivers when they need to take a break4.

The XF Sportbrake joins the existing XF sedan derivative manufactured at the Jaguar Land Rover Castle Bromwich Plant in the U.K.

Jaguar Land Rover's Boss Attacks the Demonization of Diesel

Mon, 08 May 2017 16:03:10 +0000

Ever since the Volkswagen diesel emission scandal broke, the fuel has been demonized by the media. governments, and even automakers. But someone is standing up for diesel.

Speaking with Autocar, Jaguar Land Rover boss Ralf Speth said the company would be ramping up efforts on promoting modern diesel vehicles.

“The latest diesel technology is really such a step in emissions, performance, particulates; it’s better for the environment when compared to [an equivalent] petrol. Diesel has to – needs to – have a future,” said Speth.

Speth tells the publication that the issue of diesel isn't just for the automotive industry, but the entire transport industry. Diesel is the primary fuel for commercial fleets such as buses and semi-trucks, which contribute more to the overall pollution problem. He said, "the complete automotive industry needs diesel to fulfill legislative requirements”.

Not helping matters is the public perception of diesel vehicles has taken a huge hit. Speth said some of this can be laid at the hands of the media as they have exacerbated certain misconceptions by combining images of old diesel vehicles with sooty black smoke coming out of the tailpipe with modern vehicles.

“Anyone can see the black smoke coming out of old diesels is bad. We need to replace them with newer ones.”

Speth also lays blame at Volkswagen for kicking off this current mess.

“This kind of manipulation software is not acceptable. Unfortunately, the whole automotive industry suffers, not just Volkswagen,” said Speth.

“Nobody believes the automotive industry anymore. They see us as offenders and not giving the right information. We have to show our technology is the best you can buy, to reduce the damage to health and the environment.”

Source: Autocar

What's the Future of the Jaguar XJ?

Thu, 13 Apr 2017 19:57:20 +0000

Most of Jaguar's lineup are either all new or recently been redesigned. The only exception is the flagship XJ sedan. While it has been refreshed, there hasn't been any indication from Jaguar about what will happen next. Judging from comments by their North American product manager, it seems the fate of the XJ is very uncertain.

“We had a facelift with 2016, so it is approaching the end of its lifecycle,” Larsen said of the flagship XJ. “We’re looking at, you know, future opportunities of where that could possibly go,” said David Larsen to Motor1.

When asked if there was a next-generation XJ in the pipeline, Larsen said, “I can’t confirm or deny” anything related to that.

Sales of the XJ have been stagnant for the past few years. In 2016, Jaguar only moved 3,834 XJs. This put it ahead of the Genesis G90 (782) and Maserati Quattroporte (2,268), but way behind the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (18,803) and BMW 7-Series (12,918).

Jaguar might have decided to let the XJ follow in the footsteps of the XK coupe of slowly drifting away, putting their efforts into other models such as the F-Pace and other upcoming crossovers.

Source: Motor1

Rumorpile: Jaguar XE SVR Could Boast 500 Horsepower

Fri, 17 Feb 2017 20:03:02 +0000

A new report from Auto Express says Jaguar's Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) is putting the finishing touches on high-performance XE to take on the likes of the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, BMW M3, and Mercedes-AMG C63.

The XE SVR will boast Jaguar's 5.0L supercharged V8 engine with around 500 horsepower. This will be hooked up with an eight-speed automatic. The current SVR lineup - F-Type and Range Rover Sport - utilize all-wheel drive and there is the possibility the XE SVR could go down this route. There has also been some work done on the chassis with new springs, dampers, and a limited-slip rear differential. Expect a more aggressive exterior look to go with the mechanical changes.

Auto Express says the XE SVR "will arrive almost halfway through the saloon’s lifecycle," leading us to believe it could be next year or so.

Source: Auto Express

The Jaguar XF Sportbrake Lives and Its Coming To The U.S.

Wed, 05 Oct 2016 20:26:34 +0000

It was back in April of this year that we reported Jaguar was getting out of wagon game citing shrinking sale. But fast forward to the Paris Motor Show and Jaguar has revealed an image of the next XF Sportbrake under some camouflage. Plus, news has come out that the Sportbrake is coming to the U.S. What happened?

Let us go back to our story back in April. Those comments about Jaguar not doing another wagon came from the chief designer, Ian Callum. But Callum tweeted that he was misquoted, saying that they wouldn't do an XE wagon. In May, Auto Express reported that the second-generation XF Sportbrake had been given the green light. Now the picture Jaguar showed off of the new XF Sportbrake doesn't really tell us anything new. It looks like your standard XF with a longer roof. The XF Sportbrake is expected to debut sometime next year.

Now for the U.S. bit. Motor Trend has learned from Joe Eberhardt, president and CEO of Jaguar Land Rover North America that the XF Sportbrake will be coming to the U.S. Unlike other wagons (aside from the new E-Class Wagon) that are lifted up and feature body cladding, Eberhardt said it would be a bonified wagon and share powertrains with the XF sedan.

Source: Auto Express, Motor Trend

Rumorpile: Jaguar's First EV To Be Known As E-Pace

Tue, 13 Sep 2016 15:06:01 +0000

Jaguar has reportedly been given the go-ahead for their electric SUV project. Autocar reports that the vehicle, possibly named E-Pace will be revealed later this year and go into production in 2018.

Sources at Jaguar said the vehicle was going be a Range Rover, known as the Evoque-e. However, the project was moved over to Jaguar. This little bit of information confirms a part of a rumorpile story from last month talking about Jaguar's future EV plans. The E-Pace will be smaller than the new F-Pace and feature more aggressive styling.

Power will come two electric motors - one on the front axle with 114 horsepower and one on the rear with 195 horsepower. Total output is said to be around 308 horsepower. The battery size is unknown. Prototypes running around had a 70 kWh battery. But Autocar expects a larger battery to deliver a range of 280 to 300 miles.

Source: Autocar

Rumorpile: Jaguar Goes Electric, XK Replacement Canned

Fri, 05 Aug 2016 19:45:00 +0000

What does the future of Jaguar's lineup look like? According to Automobile Magazine, expect EVs and no replacement for the XK Coupe and Convertible.

Let's begin with the EVs. First up is a replacement for the XJ known under the codename of X590. The report says X590 will be a four-door coupe with a liftback (something like an Audi A7). This is a compromise between infighting with Jaguar Land Rover boss Ralf Speth (wanted a three-box design to replace the XJ) and Jaguar design chief Ian Callum (wanted a big coupe). The underpinnings is a new architecture that is capable of handling the hardware needed for autonomous technologies. All-wheel drive will come standard.

The plan is to have X590 possibly launch in 2018, beating models that are expected from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. While Jaguar hopes this model is a success, the current XJ will be sold alongside it for a time in case it flops. (Secretly, we're hoping there is a new XJ coming as well.)

Following a year later will be an electric SUV. Now this isn't an electrified version of the F-Pace. According to the report, this model was originally going to be a Range Rover before becoming a Jaguar.

“Although it looks sleek, modern and aerodynamically efficient, this model will be rated as an SUV in North-America. All the SUV-defining hard points are there in place,” said a source about the design.

This model will be offered with the choice of rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, and three different battery packs.

The plan is to build around 20,000 to 30,000 X590s, and 30,000 to 50,000 of the new SUV.

We should also mention the replacement for the XK has canceled, most likely due to Jaguar's electric ambitions. We know the replacement would have used a stretched version of the F-Type's platform.

Source: Automobile Magazine

Rumorpile: BMW Could Supply V8s to Jaguar Land Rover

Thu, 28 Jul 2016 13:15:00 +0000

Luxury automakers are finding it difficult to make the business case for building V8 engines. Stricter fuel economy and emission standards, along with sales of V8 powered models dropping have them wondering if they should continue work on developing new variants.

Take for example Jaguar Land Rover. The current V8 in naturally-aspirated and Supercharged forms has been with us for 20 years. While the company has been trying its best to keep the engine up to date, the thirsty nature and possibility of it not meeting future emission standards has the future of V8 up in the air.

But Automobile reports that a deal is currently being worked out by JLR and BMW for the German automaker to supply V8 engines to the British. The possible engine is a new 4.0L twin-turbo V8 that promises to be more powerful, fuel efficient, and lighter than the current V8s on offer from either automaker.

Why is BMW making a possible deal with JLR? Most likely it comes down making a stronger business case as to why they should go forward with developing a new V8 engine.

Source: Automobile

Rumorpile: Jaguar Land Rover Plan the Return of A Inline-Six

Thu, 21 Apr 2016 13:25:00 +0000

The last time an inline-six could be found under the hood of a Jaguar or Land Rover vehicle was back in 1996. Afterwards, the British automaker would introduce a range of V6 engines. But those engines could be replaced by an inline-six engine.

Car Magazine has learned from sources that Jaguar Land Rover are readying a new inline-six engine that will be based off the new Ingenium four-cylinder engine family. The reason Jaguar Land Rover can do this is the Ingenium engine was designed to modular, so adding two more cylinders will not be a big issue.

The engine will be a 3.0L and feature direct injection and turbocharging. There will be gas and diesel versions with three different power outputs.

Gas: 300, 400, 500 horsepower
Diesel: 275, 335, 400 horsepower

It is unknown what vehicle the new inline-six will go into first. But Car says it will be in a number of Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles. Expect to see engine debut in 2017.

Source: Car Magazine

Jaguar Gets Out the Wagon Marketplace

Tue, 19 Apr 2016 13:25:00 +0000

Another one bites the dust in terms of the wagon marketplace. According to Automotive News Europe, Jaguar's design chief Ian Callum said the company would not being doing any wagons.

"The [wagon] market is massively shrinking. I'm very sad about it but it's a very difficult market to justify," said Callum told a group of journalists at an event for the F-Pace crossover.

Europe is the only market in the world where automakers can make inroads with wagons. During the launch of the XF Sportbrake back in 2012, Jaguar said wagons made up about 30 percent of the large luxury car market. Germany is the top market followed by the United Kingdom.

"The world's biggest wagon market is Germany. And what do Germans buy? They buy German cars," said Callum.

Meanwhile, the UK isn't as interested as wagons as they once were. Not helping matters is the growing demand for crossovers not only in Europe, but around the world. Jaguar is putting more effort in this market with the launch of the F-Pace. There is also rumors flying around that a smaller model called the E-Pace will join later.

"We will do things that will surprise you but it won't be wagons," said Callum.

Source: Automotive News Europe (Subscription Required)

Rumorpile: Jaguar Readying F-Pace and XE SVR

Mon, 18 Apr 2016 19:45:00 +0000

Jaguar's SVR lineup is only comprised of one model, the F-Type SVR. But Jaguar is planning to remedy this with two new models.

Car and Driver reports that Jaguar's Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) is testing F-Pace prototypes with a supercharged V8 under the hood producing over 500 horsepower. This model is expected to arrive in 2017.

The other model in question is an XE SVR. Car and Driver says there are a few prototypes running around with a supercharged V8. No mention of how much power the V8s are producing, but we think it's safe to assume around 500 horsepower. This model might not see the light of day as this model could contradict the company's ambition of building out a range of electric vehicles.

Source: Car and Driver

Jaguar's SVR Badge Is Not Exclusive To V8 Engines

Thu, 07 Apr 2016 13:25:00 +0000

As strict emission standards are coming into effect, Jaguar's Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) is looking forward and considering their options as to how to do performance vehicles in the future.

Speaking with CarAdvice, Jaguar’s director of public relations Richard Agnew said SVO will turning its focus to other, smaller engines in the near future.

“We can’t possibly say that SVO has to be V8, with the way the world is changing and also the way engine technology is changing as well,” said Agnew.

“Who would’ve thought that 400 horsepower [298kW] out of a four cylinder is possible? So it doesn’t have to be a V8. What it needs to be, though, is have enough over the derivative below it so it does have the credentials to wear the SVR badge.”

A number of manufacturers such as BMW have dropped V8 engines in some of their vehicles to make way for turbo six-cylinders, Mercedes' AMG division show that V8s still have a place and hints at a possible direction for future SVR vehicles.

“You see AMG designing a new V8 and I think you look at the C-Class AMG and versus the [bMW] M and I think they would disappointed they went to a six and AMG have 100hp on them… that new [Mercedes] V8 they’ve got is a state-of-the-art biturbo with super-low emissions, it’s a great engine,” said Agnew.

But Agnew admits that SVO could look into electrification for future models.

"We stated we are going to have an electric car. One thing about electric cars is that their performance is, dare I say, 'electric', and I think they are some of the game changers in terms of torque delivery and power delivery. In the future, when we have electric cars ,what will an SVR version of it be? It will be bloody quick, but it's too early to say [more]."

At the moment, Jaguar only has one SVR model; the 2017 F-Type SVR Coupe and Convertible with 575 horsepower coming from a supercharged V8.

Source: CarAdvice

Rumorpile: Jaguar Land Rover In Talks To Buy Silverstone Racetrack

Sun, 06 Dec 2015 21:45:00 +0000

Jaguar Land Rover has its eye on a new headquarters to be located at a racetrack. But not any racetrack; the company is reportedly in talks to buy the revered UK racetrack Silverstone.

The Birmingham Post reports that JLR is in talks with the British Racing Drivers’ Club - the current owners of the track - about buying the track. Reportedly, the board has given the green light and JLR could offer the owners around 23 billion Pounds (about $34.1 billion). If purchased, the company would build a museum, experience center, and hotel on the grounds. There will also be a space for 1,000 sales and marketing staff and 700 engineers.

Now if Jaguar Land Rover do purchase the track, would there still be racing? The Post and Automotive News Europe say yes, so F1 racing at the track is safe.

When asked for comment, the British Racing Drivers’ Club said in a statement "that it received a number of confidential approaches" and would consider an "attractive" offer from any party and would seek a mandate from club members before progressing it." Jaguar Land Rover declined to comment.
Source: Automotive News Europe (Subscription Required), Birmingham Post

Rumorpile: Jaguar Land Rover Plan To Cut $6.8 Billion In Costs By 2020

Tue, 10 Nov 2015 20:15:00 +0000

Jaguar Land Rover is readying a new plan that will see them cut 4.5 billion pounds (about $6.8 billion) in costs by 2020. According to Reuters, the plan dubbed Leap 4.5 will see the British automaker consolidate models to a small number of core platforms, overhauling the supply chain, and slow down/stop recruiting new people to the company. At the current time, there are no plans to layoff people.

Why is Jaguar Land Rover putting forth this program? It comes down to the automaker's fastest growing market, China. Sales in the second quarter of this year dropped 32 percent due to a number of economic issues in the country, which has affected the demand for new cars.

Source: Reuters

Rumorpile: Jaguar Readies An Electric Crossover, Inline-Six Engine

Fri, 23 Oct 2015 14:25:00 +0000

Automobile magazine has a couple of juicy rumors concerning Jaguar.

First is Jaguar and its sister brand Land Rover working on a new inline-six to take the place of the somewhat old V6 the two brand use. The new six-cylinder will be derived from the new Ingenium engine family. The inline-six will be 3.0L, feature turbocharging, and come in diesel and gasoline forms. Power is expected to range from 275 to 500 horsepower. Expect to see this new engine in late 2017.

The other rumor deals with an electric crossover. Possibly named E-Pace, the electric crossover will be slightly smaller the F-Pace and feature a number of aerodynamic aids to cut through the wind. No information was provided on power figures.

Source: Automobile

Jaguar Offers Free Maintenance, Cut Prices, and Adds More Equipment

Fri, 04 Sep 2015 17:05:00 +0000

If you were to ask a luxury car buyer why they haven't bought a Jaguar, they'll cite two reasons; high prices and maintenance costs. Jaguar is hoping to change that with some changes for the 2016 model year.

The British automaker announced that it would be cutting the pricetag on certain models from $1,500 to $3,000. Models that don't see a price cut will be getting an increase in standard equipment.

An example of a price cut will the be new 2016 XF. The redesigned mid-size luxury sedan sees a 9 percent price cut (about $5,275), making the base price of the XF $52,895, including shipping. This helps the XF undercut many competitors in the class such as the BMW 5-Series and Audi A6 equipped with six-cylinder engines.

With the new price strategy, “we are positioned at the heart depending on how you do the price comparison,” said Joe Eberhardt, CEO of Jaguar Land Rover North America. “Directionally, we are below all the Germans and we are par or slightly above the Asia or domestic competitors.”

As for models that will not see price cut, Jaguar has increased the amount of standard equipment by about 10 to 20 percent. The F-Type coupe and roadster will remain the same, but the amount of standard equipment has increased by about $4,000 to $12,000.

Along with price cuts and increase in standard features, Jaguar is also introducing the EliteCare program. Basically if your purchase a 2016 Jaguar, your car will come with a limited warranty, free scheduled service, and 24/7 roadside assistance for five years or the first 60,000 miles. Owners will also get Jaguar's InControl and Protect services for that time as well.

“The Jaguar brand is on the eve of a major transformation that will see it dramatically increase its presence in the United States luxury marketplace with an expanded lineup, pricing focused on the core of the luxury market and an all-new ownership package with best-in-class coverage,” Eberhardt said.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), Jaguar

Press Release is on Page 2

Jaguar Announces Plan to Target The Heart of Luxury Market With New Products, New Pricing Strategy and Introduction of Jaguar EliteCare Ownership Package

Jaguar updates and expands entire 2016MY & 2017MY product line-up featuring all-new or significantly updated vehicles and features
Jaguar triples U.S. market reach with addition of two new entry-level 17MY luxury vehicles: the XE compact luxury sedan and the F-PACE performance SUV
All new aluminum-intensive Jaguar XF model joins significantly updated Jaguar XJ and F-TYPE lines for 2016 model year
New Jaguar pricing strategy focuses brand at the heart of the luxury market, including 17MY Jaguar XE 25t available starting at $34,900

Starting with the 16MY line-up, every Jaguar will come standard with Jaguar EliteCare coverage, an ownership package offering the best-in-class limited warranty and longest complimentary scheduled maintenance package of any luxury brand in the market, with five-years or 60,000 mile coverage, whichever comes first2
New marketing campaigns for XF, XJ and Jaguar EliteCare tell story of the brand transformation"The Art of Performance Tour" invites consumers in seven cities to test drive the all-new Jaguar XE and see the new Jaguar F-PACE up to six months before their respective on-sale dates
Jaguar F-PACE will be revealed at the Frankfurt Motor show September 2015; makes its first U.S. auto show appearance at the LA Auto Show November 2015(MAHWAH, NJ) - September 3, 2015 - Jaguar North America announced today a significant new approach in the U.S. market with new pricing and customer care strategies aimed at transforming the brand's presence as its line-up shifts from three to five models and potential customer reach triples.
"The Jaguar brand is on the eve of a major transformation that will see it dramatically increase its presence in the United States luxury marketplace with an expanded line-up, pricing focused on the core of the luxury market and an all-new ownership package with best-in-class coverage," said Joe Eberhardt, President and CEO of Jaguar Land Rover North America. "Today is the beginning of the next generation of Jaguar, as the brand grows from a limited three-model line-up to a more competitive five-product portfolio driven by performance and design. The next six months will see an influx of new products as a result of a deep investment in vehicle development, quality and manufacturing that has fully modernized the brand."At the heart of today's modern Jaguar brand is the transformation of its line-up into a family of five all-new or substantially refreshed 2016 and 2017 model year luxury vehicles, combining beautiful designs with new driving dynamics, technology and features. The new family of Jaguar vehicles - the second generation XF, the flagship XJ, the F-TYPE sports car, the XE compact luxury sedan and the F-PACE compact luxury SUV -- focuses on the core of the luxury market reaching a far wider range of potential customers than ever before.
Starting with the new 2016 model year vehicles, the Jaguar brand will have an improved competitive value position via steps such as increased standard equipment or new lower MSRP choices by model. The new pricing strategy is exemplified by the all-new 2016 Jaguar XF 35t model which gives customers a V6 powered option starting at a MSRP of $51,900, which is $5,275 or 9 percent lower than the previous generation XF model's lowest priced V6 model at $57,175. Both the 2016 Jaguar XJ and 2016 F-TYPE improving value, up to $7,000 and $11,850 respectively, with increased standard equipment alongside updated features and design elements.Beginning in the spring of 2016, the Jaguar brand value story further transforms with two new entry luxury vehicles, the 2017 Jaguar XE compact luxury sedan and the 2017 Jaguar F-PACE compact luxury SUV. The 17MY Jaguar XE 25t will be available with an MSRP starting at $34,900, placing it at the heart of the compact luxury sedan market giving it a very strong position versus key competitors. The Jaguar F-PACE will debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show on Sept. 14, at which time its highly competitive pricing will be announced. By adding the XE and the F-PACE in the compact luxury sedan and compact SUV segments, Jaguar will be relevant to a far wider range of potential millennial luxury customers3.
Building on the growth opportunity of new products and more competitive pricing, starting in model year 2016, all Jaguar models will come standard with Jaguar EliteCare, an ownership package with class-leading five-years or 60,000-mile warranty, complimentary scheduled maintenance coverage, roadside assistance and Jaguar InControl® Protect & RemoteTM2.To support the transformational product, pricing and customer care plan, Jaguar will launch three new marketing campaigns and a consumer test drive experience, all geared to bring the new products and Jaguar EliteCare coverage to market in a meaningful and engaging way.
"Starting this year we will be reaching a far larger target audience that includes a significant number of affluent millennial customers," said Kim McCullough, Vice President of Marketing, Jaguar Land Rover, North America. "Our brand research indicates this audience is already receptive to the brand, and the Jaguar EliteCare coverage will give them even greater confidence that a Jaguar is a smart buy."PRICING AND VALUE PROPOSITION
The new family of 2016 and 2017 model year Jaguar vehicles will go on sale with an aggressive new pricing structure and value strategy designed to attack the core of every segment. With the new line-up, the brand is underlining its ambitions to be a more attainable luxury brand while maintaining an elevated position among premium makes and continuing to lead in design and performance.Across the line-up, all Jaguar models will be highly competitive with entry-priced derivatives, lower MSRPs, and increased levels of standard equipment all with the goal of hitting the core of each segment and offering competitive value advantages. Increased value builds on the products key strengths and comes alongside new available technologies such as Instinctive All Wheel Drive®4, lightweight aluminum-intensive architecture, Jaguar InControl® infotainment features5, electric power assisted steering, and soon, diesel technology.
2017MY Jaguar XE 25t: starting at $34,900XE Value Proposition:
Starting prices of $34,900 for the Jaguar XE 25t and $41,700 for the XE 35t gives it very competitive starting points and places it directly in the middle of the range of its respective key competitors' starting MSRPs.Jaguar XE 20d diesel - starting at $36,400
2016MY Jaguar XF 35t: starting at $51,900XF Value Proposition:
The second generation vehicle features an all-new entry priced 340-hp V6 model at just $51,900, which is $5,275 or 9% lower than the lowest priced 15MY V6 XF ($57,175).At $51,900 for a V6 powered model, the XF 35t is priced directly in the middle of the range of its key competitors' starting MSRPs.
An all new derivative, the 380-hp XF S model, with added equipment, starts at $62,700Future models, including a diesel powered derivative, will be added next year that will bring the entry price point for an XF to under $50,000
2016MY Jaguar XJ: starting at $74,400XJ Value Proposition:
Versus previous model year, the 16MY XJ adds standard features valued at up to $7,000 with new standard features including ventilated front and rear seats, upgraded Meridian™ 825W sound system, full LED and Adaptive Headlights4 with auto high beams and the Jaguar InControl® Touch Pro™ system5.With even further added standard features, such as quilted soft grain leather, massage front seats, and traffic sign recognition4, the entry XJL 3.0 Portfolio starts at $83,200 while a comparably equipped BMW 740 Li would cost $85,800; an advantage of $2,600.
2016MY Jaguar F-TYPE: starting at $65,000 for the Coupe Manual and $68,100 for the Convertible ManualF-TYPE Value Proposition:
Versus previous year, the 16MY F-TYPE adds standard features valued at up to $3,550 for F-TYPE and $11,850 for F-TYPE R models, including the top-spec 770W Meridian™ surround audio system, keyless entry and a panoramic roof on coupe modelsF-TYPE Coupe vs. competitively equipped Porsche models
V6: Jaguar F-TYPE Coupe $73,295 vs. Cayman S at $84,865V8: Jaguar F-TYPE R Coupe: $106,695 vs. Porsche 911 Carrera S at $131,060
JAGUAR ELITECARE
Starting with the 16MY line-up, and going forward, every vehicle will come standard with Jaguar EliteCare, a Best- in-Class coverage package that includes Five Years/60,000 Miles of Limited Warranty, and Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance, as well as a suite of connectivity services and roadside assistance2."Jaguar EliteCare provides confidence and value, giving customers a rational 'permission slip' to indulge themselves with a car that resonates on a deeply emotional level," said Eberhardt. "All new Jaguar models will be defined by both their design and performance, and now, a highly attractive ownership value proposition. This new best-in-class coverage will bolster the transformation of Jaguar, while accelerating its growth among current and new customers."
Jaguar EliteCare coverage offers2:5-Year/60,000 Mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty (best in class)
5-Year/60,000 Mile Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance (longest in class)5-Year/60,000 Mile 24/7 Roadside Assistance
5-Year/Unlimited Mile Jaguar InControl® Remote & Protect™MARKETING
Jaguar will launch two new product campaigns this fall for the XF and XJ, with Jaguar EliteCare being a key supporting message across each. Jaguar EliteCare will also be featured in a below the line campaign that targets customers as they are in the shopping process.The XF campaign, Not Business as Usual, will feature a global television spot. The XJ campaign, Rare and Meant to Be, will be available online and highlights the vehicle's new enhanced interior. Jaguar EliteCare will be amplified further with an online video featuring the full Jaguar model line-up, including the F-TYPE, XJ, XF, XE and the F-PACE, and showcasing the performance and design that underscore all Jaguar models. The video debuts on JaguarUSA.com on Sept.14, timed to the reveal of the F-PACE.
Print, digital, social and CRM will be supporting assets across the new campaigns. Print executions for the XF and XJ campaigns featuring Jaguar EliteCare messaging will begin appearing in October. Digital banners featuring the rest of the Jaguar line-up will follow in October and November."THE ART OF PERFORMANCE" JAGUAR XE TEST DRIVE TOUR
To introduce the Jaguar XE compact luxury sedan to the growing millennial consumer demographic who desire performance and seduction in their luxury vehicles, Jaguar will launch "The Art of Performance Tour: Lights. Camera. Drive!" This seven-city cross-country tour, kicking off in Los Angeles in November, invites consumers to see the full 2016/2017 Jaguar line-up, including the Jaguar F-PACE, and be among the first to drive the Jaguar XE starting six months before it goes on sale. The drive experience will have a cinematic feel that celebrates Jaguar's long standing relationship with movies. The drive of the all-new Jaguar XE will provide consumers with the opportunity to star in their own filmed action sequence as they experience high performance driving on a closed course and on-road handling through a street drive. Their personal film will then be sharable through their social media pages. Consumers can sign up to receive more information about The Art of Performance by visiting JaguarUSA.com/RSVP.

Rumorpile: Jaguar F-Pace To Be First In A Crossover Family

Mon, 24 Aug 2015 20:35:00 +0000

The Jaguar F-Pace is the first of a new crossover lineup that the British automaker is working on. Autocar has learned from sources that Jaguar is planning a lineup of crossovers that will include coupe-style versions and one that will be around the size of a MINI Countryman.

One model that will not be part of this lineup will be a seven-seat crossover. Despite earlier rumors which said there was one the in the works, sources say the seven-seat model wouldn't fit the performance image that Jaguar is trying to create with the upcoming F-Pace crossover.

Also in the cards is an all-electric crossover.

It is expected that all of the crossovers will use 'Pace' in their names. No word when we'll be seeing these crossovers on the road.

Source: Autocar

Jaguar Unveils Refreshed 2016 Jaguar XJ

Tue, 16 Jun 2015 14:58:00 +0000

The Jaguar XJ is getting a refresh for the 2016 model year, but almost all of the upgrades come from the I. T. department.

Visually, the exterior gets new LED accent lighting, active LED headlamps with automatic high-beams, and a more upright grille. XJR models will come with a Black Pack option for sportier styling.

Engines for the US carry over with the 340 horsepower supercharged 3.0 liter V6 and the 5.0 liter V8 in either 470 hp or 550 hp tune. Europe gets an upgraded, lower emissions diesel 3.0 liter V6 and a 236 hp / 250 lb-ft 2.0 liter turbo 4-cylinder. All engines are tied to a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission in either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

Next up, Jaguar's I.T. Department goes to town

In the 2016 XJ, Jaguar is showcasing their new (and awkwardly named - DD) InControl Touch Pro infotainment system. The system features a quad-core Intel processor and a 60gb solid-state hard drive. Drivers should feel familiar with the use and navigation of the infotainment system with smart-phone like gestures such as pinch-to-zoom, swipe, and others. The primary screen is an 8-inch diagonal display wish a secondary screen in the instrument cluster also capable of displaying full navigation map.

InControl Touch Pro features a door-to-door route planning that will also including public transportation options. It links to a companion app allowing you to plan your route from your phone and continue it after you leave the car if need be. As you approach your destination, a 360 degree view will display on the screen and will also help locate the nearest available parking spot. Later, if you forget where you parked, the InControl Touch Pro app will locate your car for you.

Commute mode learns the driver's daily commute and will automatically adjust and suggest alternatives based on historical or real-time traffic and congestion data.

A forward facing camera can now monitor speed limit signs and double check against GPS and Map data to inform the driver of the current speed limit. It is also able to update for temporary speed restrictions due to road work or weather.

While not quite Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, InControl is able to access certain compatible apps and display the interface on the primary screen.

A 3G WiFi hotspot is available for up to 8 devices.

All 2016 Jaguar XJ models will come standard with an 825w Meridian surround sound audio system featuring 17 speakers. Opt for the upgrade and you'll get 1,300w with 26 speakers.

Rear seat passengers in the long wheelbase models can watch movies on optional twin 10.2 inch high-def hideaway screens.

Safety technology has not been ignored.

The 2016 XJ gains Jaguar's All-Surface Progress Control. It is available at the push of a button between 2.2mph and 19mph. It uses fine throttle and braking control to act like a low speed cruise control. Press the button, set the speed, and all the driver needs to do is steer, allowing you to get to your pace with grace even in low traction situations.

The Adaptive Cruise Control is now better at dealing with heavy traffic situations and able to bring the car to a complete stop if need be.

Blind Spot monitoring has been enhanced to include Closing Vehicle Sensing. The system is now able to look for vehicles approaching rapidly in the other lane.

The 2016 Jaguar XJ will be built at Jaguar's Castle Bromwich plant and go on sale fall of 2015.

Press Release on Page 3
*All images included with this article are courtesy of Jaguar - Land Rover. European spec models shown.

Jaguar XJ Resets the Standard for Luxury, Design and Dynamics

Exterior design refresh complete with full LED headlights and unique double J-Blade daytime running lights
Black Pack standard on XJR models providing a subtly enhanced exterior styling
All-aluminum body construction contributes to reduced weight and exceptional performance
Standard wheelbase derivatives receive a more assertive and dynamic exterior treatment together with a new R-Sport designation, emphasizing the vehicle's sporting character and design
XJL Portfolio and XJL Supercharged are distinguished with the introduction of quilted seating surfaces finished with a diamond sewn pattern on the seat center and cushion
New InControl Touch Pro™ touch-screen infotainment system offers door-to-door navigation, seamless iOS and Android connectivity, available Wi-Fi hotspot and a standard 17-speaker, 825W Meridian™ Surround Sound audio system
Redesigned instrument cluster with enhanced customization now offers full-screen line-of-sight navigation display
Electric power-assisted steering, available on rear-wheel drive models, reduces fuel consumption and offers even greater feel and responsiveness
All-Surface Progress Control enables enhanced drive-away on low-traction surfaces such as snow and ice
Suite of advanced driver assistance systems including adaptive cruise control with queue-assist, closing vehicle sensing, reverse traffic detection, 360° surround camera system and semi-automated perpendicular and parallel-parking (RWD Only)
On sale from Fall 2015

(MAHWAH, N.J.) - June 15, 2015 - Jaguar today announced updates to the 2016 Jaguar XJ. Launched in the U.S. in 2011, the brand's flagship full-size, all-aluminum luxury sedan becomes even more desirable in 2016 with an updated exterior design, enhanced information and entertainment systems, new available driver assistance features and greater differentiation in the model line-up.
DESIGN
Featuring a new, more progressive look, the exterior of the 2016 XJ incorporates an updated front fascia that includes a larger, more upright grille with a new mesh pattern, a subtly redesigned front bumper and newly sculpted chrome blades in the lower air intakes.
Full adaptive LED headlamps with auto high beam functionality¹ are standard across the entire 2016 XJ range. The lamp assembly incorporates an XJ-exclusive, signature 'Double J' daytime running lamp which helps further distinguish the XJ at the top of the Jaguar sedan range. New LED tail lights and oval exhaust tips complete the look.
The Jaguar XJ continues to feature all-aluminum construction reducing weight and improving performance and is offered in two wheelbases - standard and long. Expanding on the duality of character of the XJ, for 2016, the model line-up has been redefined to further differentiate standard and long wheelbase variants.
Standard wheelbase derivatives receive aerodynamic exterior enhancements together with a new R-Sport designation, emphasizing the vehicle's sporting character, while long wheelbase versions receive new interior trim refinements which underscore the model's luxurious characteristics.
Underscoring its dynamic on-road performance, XJR models are distinguished with a black trim package that includes the addition of a black front grille, black lower air intake surrounds and black window surrounds.
Inside, standard wheelbase XJ models feature soft grain perforated leather seats with contrast stitching, contrast piping and an embossed leaper on the headrests. XJ R-Sport models retain the previous model year's 8x8-way power front seats plus 4-way lumbar adjustments, while XJ Supercharged models are fitted with 14x14-way power seats that include 4-way lumbar support, allowing drivers to tailor the seating position and comfort to their own liking. 14x14-way seats will also be available on XJ R-Sport models as part of the Comfort Pack that bundles the increased adjustment features with front seat massagers, passenger memory, 4-zone A/C and an electric rear sunblind.
XJL Portfolio and XJL Supercharged are further distinguished with the introduction of quilted seating surfaces finished with a diamond sewn pattern on the seat center and cushion; 14x14-way power seats with 4-way lumbar adjustments are standard.
Front and rear heated and ventilated seats are standard on all 2016 XJ models.
The 2016 XJ model line-up consists of the standard wheelbase XJ R-Sport, XJ R-Sport AWD, XJ Supercharged and the XJR. Long wheelbase models include the XJL Portfolio, XJL Portfolio AWD, XJL Supercharged and XJR LWB.
POWERTRAIN
The new XJ offers the familiar Jaguar range of all-aluminum V6 and V8 engines. Each featuring direct injection, variable valve timing, forced induction and intelligent stop-start systems which deliver high performance with enhanced efficiency.
The 3.0-liter supercharged V6 develops 340hp and 332 lb-ft of toque and is available with rear- or all-wheel drive. Characterized by its linear power delivery and free-revving nature, this engine also delivers a unique soundtrack thanks to meticulously-tuned intake and exhaust systems.
The 5.0-liter supercharged V8 continues to be offered in 470hp and 550hp variants, delivering all of the performance promised by the dramatic styling of the XJ.
All powertrains feature a specifically-optimized eight-speed automatic transmission from ZF®. Each has been developed to provide the perfect balance of unrivalled performance, shift comfort, dynamics and efficiency.
CHASSIS
Following years of development and testing, as well as meticulous tuning work from the Jaguar engineering team, the brand has now incorporated Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) on rear-wheel drive models of the brand's flagship sedan. Unlike hydraulic systems, EPAS only uses energy when the driver turns the wheel, so the reduction in parasitic losses helps to reduce fuel consumption and increase overall vehicle efficiency. The system's ability to filter-out steering disturbances from poor road surfaces and compensate for road camber make the steering feel smoother and more precise than ever. Friction has also been engineered-out, improving steering feel and responsiveness further.
INFOTAINMENT AND CONNECTIVITY
For 2016, the XJ is equipped with InControl Touch Pro™, an all-new infotainment system designed to be simple and intuitive. Conceived in-house and built around a quad-core Intel processor, 60GB solid-state drive and a next-generation Ethernet network, InControl Touch Pro can handle large amounts of data and is exceptionally powerful and responsive.
The centerpiece of the system is its eight-inch capacitive touch-screen that works more like a modern smartphone, than an automotive infotainment system. The home screen can be customized selecting one of several available wallpaper images, widgets offer shortcuts to favorite features and functions, and additional home pages can be added, if desired.
The touch-screen responds to common 'pinch to zoom' and 'swipe' gestures allowing drivers to scroll between home screens. Using this technology, the simple, intuitive user interface of the InControl Touch Pro system is designed to minimize driver distraction. Jaguar has also incorporated a secondary full-screen navigational display in the vehicle's updated instrument cluster, improving line of sight driving and reducing the amount of time a driver needs to take his eyes off the road².
The functionality of the navigation system is just as impressive. Maps stored on the 60GB solid-state drive of the InControl Touch Pro system can be accessed quicker than with conventional hard drives. Dead-reckoning functionality accurately determines the vehicle's position even when GPS signals cannot be received.
InControl Touch Pro enables door-to-door route planning and guidance, including public transportation options. A companion app allows drivers to plan their route offline and load it into the system at the start of the journey. Once the driver exits the car and the phone is disconnected from the vehicle, the app will continue to provide navigational directions, if need be, on the driver's phone.
A new Commute Mode has also been developed which learns the driver's daily commute to and from the home or office and can automatically offer alternative routes to avoid congestion using historical and real-time traffic information. Approach Mode displays a 360-degree interactive view of the driver's surroundings on the infotainment screen as they get to within 656ft (200m) of their destination, and can even direct the driver to the nearest available parking space.
Meridian™ Audio System
Equal attention has been paid to audio performance. Now standard across the entire XJ range is an 825-watt Meridian, 17-speaker Surround Sound system that delivers exceptional sound performance. Going a step further, customers can opt for the outstanding 26-speaker, 1,300W Meridian Reference sound system. Featuring 17 channels of stereo and surround sound, Meridian's Trifield™ technology ensures optimum reproduction with benchmark low levels of distortion.
Rear Seat Entertainment
To further enhance the luxurious experience of long wheelbase XJ models, customers will be able to specify a new rear seat entertainment system which features driver and passenger-side hideaway 10.2-inch high-definition screens offering a true 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio. The rear seat entertainment system will also allow passengers to connect personal devices using a variety of different cable options. Two USB 3.0 ports and one HDMI, enable charging and media output from a wide range of players, smartphones and tablets.
Connected-Car Technology
The new XJ is the latest vehicle to offer Jaguar InControl® Apps™; an innovative, intuitive technology that enables customers to seamlessly connect their Apple® and Android™ smartphones to the vehicle's infotainment system, via a designated USB port. InControl Apps™ provides access to compatible apps on the customer's smartphone using the vehicle's touch-screen as the main interface².
Enhanced for 2016, the InControl Remote™, accessed through the InControl Remote App, allows the driver to bring the cabin to a pre-set temperature by remotely starting the engine, check how much fuel is in the tank, remotely lock or unlock the doors and get alerts if the alarm goes off. The app also helps owners locate their vehicle with a map displayed on their smartphone, in case the vehicle was parked in an unfamiliar area.
Using the vehicle's antenna, the new XJ can also function as a Wi-Fi hotspot, providing a 3G connection for up to eight connected devices³.
Should the car be involved in a collision severe enough to trigger the airbags⁴, InControl Protect automatically notifies emergency services and provide the vehicle's GPS location. Occupants can also trigger an emergency call or roadside assistance manually by pressing a button on the overhead center console.
ADVANCED DRIVER ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS
All-Surface Progress Control
The new XJ is the latest Jaguar to benefit from the brand's new All-Surface Progress Control (ASPC) technology. Designed to help drivers pull away smoothly on very low friction surfaces, ASPC is a unique system which can make it easier to drive a powerful car, whether RWD or AWD, at low speeds on snow, ice, wet grass or other low traction environments¹.
ASPC works like a low-speed cruise control and operates between 2.2mph and 19mph (3.6km/h and 30km/h). The system is activated by pressing a button on the center console, in conjunction with the cruise control switches on the steering wheel to set the maximum speed. Once set, ASPC controls the throttle and brakes, all the driver has to do is to steer.
What makes ASPC so effective is that it doesn't just provide fine control of the throttle, it also uses the vehicle's brakes in conjunction with the throttle. From a standstill, only very low engine torque is applied to the driven wheels, enabling smooth progress with little or no wheel spin. ASPC is compatible with rear- and all-wheel drive can be made even more effective by the fitment of winter tires.
Traffic Sign Recognition
The traffic sign recognition system relies on a forward-facing camera to keep the driver informed of speed limits - including temporary limits which may be in force through road work, for example, and variable limits on highways¹. Camera data is compared against GPS data, enhancing accuracy and robustness.
Adaptive Cruise Control with Queue Assist
The new queue assist function for the adaptive cruise control system has been designed to reduce the effort and monotony of driving in heavy traffic¹. Using a long-range radar sensor, the system can now maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, modulating throttle and braking duties, all the way down to a standstill.
Closing Vehicle Sensing
Building on the benefits of blind spot monitoring, the Closing Vehicle Sensing system uses radar sensors to alert the driver to the presence of vehicles approaching fast from behind when changing lanes by displaying a flashing icon in the corner of the side mirrors¹.
Park-Assist (RWD models only)
The adoption of EPAS in RWD vehicles enables the new XJ to provide semi-autonomous park-assist functions for both perpendicular and parallel parking¹. Ultrasonic sensors measure the space first and, if it's large enough, the system helps manoeuvre the car into position - and, in the case of parallel parking, out again. The driver just controls the accelerator and brakes.
In addition, there's a surround camera system, available on both RWD and AWD models, which combines the view from four cameras to provide a 360-degree view of the area around the car, including a plan view, to make manoeuvring easier.
Reverse Traffic Detection
The radar sensors equipped on the XJ can also help alert the driver of potential hazards when reversing¹. If the system senses a vehicle approaching from either side while the XJ is in reverse, the driver is given audible and visual warnings.
The XJ is manufactured alongside the F-TYPE and the all-new XF at the Jaguar Land Rover Castle Bromwich Plant and will be available to U.S. customers in the Fall of 2015.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

XJ R-Sport & XJ R-Sport AWD
XJL Portfolio & XJ Portfolio AWD
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

Engine capacity (cc)
2,995
Cylinders
Supercharged V6
Valves per cylinder
4; DOHC, variable inlet and exhaust cam timing
Bore/ stroke (mm)
84.5/ 89.0
Compression ratio
10.5:1
Fuel injection
150bar direct injection
Boosting system
Twin-Vortex supercharger
Power HP
340 @ 6,500rpm
Torque lb ft (Nm)
332 (450) @ 3,500-5,000rpm
Transmission
RWD: ZF 8HP45 8-speed automatic / AWD: ZF 8HP70 8-speed automatic
Gear ratios (:1)

1st
4.714
2nd
3.143
3rd
2.106
4th
1.667
5th
1.285
6th
1.000
7th
0.839
8th
0.667
Reverse
RWD: 3.295 / AWD: 3.317
Final Drive
2.73
CHASSIS

Front suspension
Double wishbone
Rear suspension
Double wishbone
Steering
RWD: Rack-and-pinion; electromechanical power-assisted
AWD: Rack-and-pinion; power-assisted
DIMENSIONS

Length inches (mm)
202 (5,130)
206.9 (5,255)
Width inc./ excl. mirrors inches (mm)
82.9 (2,105) / 74.8 (1,899)
82.9 (2,105) / 74.8 (1,899)
Height inches (mm)
57.5 (1,460)
57.5 (1,460)
Wheelbase inches (mm)
119.4 (3,032)
124.3 (3,157)
Track front/ rear inches (mm)
64 (1,626) / 63.1 (1,604)
64 (1,626) / 63.1 (1,604)
Curb weight lbs (kg)
RWD: From 3,891 (1,765) /
AWD: From 4,112 (1,865)
RWD: From 3,913 (1,775) /
AWD: From 4,134 (1,875)
Fuel tank; usable gallons (litres)
21 (80)
21 (80)
PERFORMANCE

0-60mph (sec)⁵
RWD: 5.7 / AWD: 6.1
0-100km/h (sec)
RWD: 5.9 / AWD: 6.4
Top speed mph (km/h)
155 (250)

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

XJ Supercharged
XJL Supercharged
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

Engine capacity (cc)
5,000
Cylinders
Supercharged V8
Valves per cylinder
4; DOHC, variable inlet and exhaust cam timing
Bore/ stroke (mm)
92.5/ 93.0
Compression ratio
9.5:1
Fuel injection
150bar direct injection
Boosting system
Twin-Vortex supercharger
Power HP
470 @ 6,000-6,500rpm
Torque lb ft (Nm)
424 (575) @ 2,000-5,500rpm
Transmission
ZF 8HP70 8-speed automatic
Gear ratios (:1)

1st
4.714
2nd
3.143
3rd
2.106
4th
1.667
5th
1.285
6th
1.000
7th
0.839
8th
0.667
Reverse
3.317
Final Drive
2.56
CHASSIS

Front suspension
Double wishbone
Rear suspension
Double wishbone
Steering
Rack-and-pinion; electromechanical power-assisted
DIMENSIONS

Length inches (mm)
202 (5,130)
206.9 (5,255)
Width inc./ excl. mirrors inches (mm)
82.9 (2,105) / 74.8 (1,899)
82.9 (2,105) / 74.8 (1,899)
Height inches (mm)
57.5 (1,460)
57.5 (1,460)
Wheelbase inches (mm)
119.4 (3,032)
124.3 (3,157)
Track front/ rear inches (mm)
64 (1,626) / 63.1 (1,604)
64 (1,626) / 63.1 (1,604)
Curb weight lbs (kg)
From 4,134 (1,875)
From 4,156 (1,885)
Fuel tank; usable (litres)
21 (80)
21 (80)
PERFORMANCE

0-60mph (sec)⁵
4.9
0-100km/h (sec)
5.2
Top speed mph (km/h)
155 (250)

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

XJR
XJR LWB
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

Engine capacity (cc)
5,000
Cylinders
Supercharged V8
Valves per cylinder
4; DOHC, variable inlet and exhaust cam timing
Bore/ stroke (mm)
92.5/ 93.0
Compression ratio
9.5:1
Fuel injection
150bar direct injection
Boosting system
Twin-Vortex supercharger
Power PS (kW)
550 (405) @ 6,000-6,500rpm
Torque Nm (lb ft)
680 (502) @ 3,500-4,000rpm
Transmission
ZF 8HP70 8-speed automatic
Gear ratios (:1)

1st
4.714
2nd
3.143
3rd
2.106
4th
1.667
5th
1.285
6th
1.000
7th
0.839
8th
0.667
Reverse
3.317
Final Drive
2.56
CHASSIS

Front suspension
Double wishbone
Rear suspension
Double wishbone
Steering
Rack-and-pinion; electromechanical power-assisted
DIMENSIONS

Length inches (mm)
202 (5,130)
206.9 (5,255)
Width inc./ excl. mirrors inches (mm)
82.9 (2,105) / 74.8 (1,899)
82.9 (2,105) / 74.8 (1,899)
Height inches (mm)
57.5 (1,460)
57.5 (1,460)
Wheelbase inches (mm)
119.4 (3,032)
124.3 (3,157)
Track front/ rear inches (mm)
64 (1,626) / 63.1 (1,604)
64 (1,626) / 63.1 (1,604)
Curb weight lbs (kg)
From 4,134 (1,875)
From 4,156 (1,885)
Fuel tank; usable gallons (litres)
21 (80)
21 (80)
PERFORMANCE

0-60mph (sec)⁵
4.4
0-100km/h (sec)
4.6
Top speed mph (km/h)
174 (280)

Jaguar Considers A Smaller Crossover

Tue, 19 May 2015 14:25:00 +0000

Coming soon will be Jaguar's first crossover - the F-Pace. But the luxury automaker is consider adding another one.

Autocar reports the luxury automaker is looking into a compact crossover to take on the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class and other models. Why not a compact sedan or coupe to take on the likes of the Audi A3 BMW 1/2-Series, and Mercedes-Benz A-Class? Sales of crossovers - especially small ones are booming at the moment.

“A family [of SUVs] is not confirmed but we are investigating it. We have the architecture and capability with Land Rover to go left or right, up or down, but we’d only do it on two key attributes. The car has to be dynamically the most capable and it has to meet our design standards,” said Steven de Ploey, Jaguar’s brand director.

“If we want to grow, a compact model is the obvious opportunity. The arguments about this are twofold. It has to be a Jaguar in design and performance, and it would be a challenge to do this. The second is the business, both in terms of scale and competition. You’d not just be competing with premium brands but high-end mainstream manufacturers, too. There are lots of other things we have to do before this, but we have opportunities and permission to play there.”

Source: Autocar

Rumorpile: Jaguar Working On XE-R To Take On BMW M3

Tue, 12 May 2015 14:15:00 +0000

A new BMW M3/M4 is here and the competitors are coming out of the woodwork. Cadillac has shown off the ATS-V; Lexus is selling the RC-F; and Mercedes-Benz has the C63. Now a report from Autocar says Jaguar is working on their entrant.

Sources tell the publication that the hot XE - possibly named XE-R - will use the V8 from F-Type Convertible with 495 horsepower. This will come paired with an eight-speed automatic that will be tuned to deliver more aggressive shifts. Interestingly, sources say the V8 was easier to fit than the current lineup of engines for the XE, including the new Ingenium four-cylinder engine.

No word if Jaguar plans on using any lightweight materials, but the report does say the XE-R will use revised dampers found found on the XE S.

A time frame for this hot XE wasn't given, but a source says it could be awhile since there are more important projects ongoing - such as the F-Pace Crossover.

Source: Autocar

Jaguar Details What the XE for North America Will Feature

Wed, 29 Apr 2015 21:45:00 +0000

While North America has to wait till next spring for the Jaguar XE to come, Jaguar has detailed some of the specs for North American-Spec XE.

First off, lets talk about engines. The base will be XE 20d which will feature Jaguar's new Ingenium turbocharged 2.0L diesel four-cylinder with 180 horsepower and 318 pound-feet of torque. Jaguar quotes a 0-60 MPH time of 7.1 seconds and a top speed of 140 MPH. Then there is the XE 35t which features a 3.0L Supercharged V6 with 340 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. 0-60 MPH takes 4.9 seconds and is limited to 155 MPH.

No matter which engine you choose, a ZF eight-speed automatic will be the only transmission. Rear-wheel drive will come standard, while all-wheel drive is an option.

There will be three levels on offer - Premium, Prestige, and R-Sport - along with Jaguar's new InControl infotainment system.

Pricing will be announced closer to the U.S. launch.

Source: Jaguar

Press Release is on Page 2

Jaguar XE All-New Compact Sports Sedan to Expand Jaguar U.S. Lineup in 2016

All-new Jaguar XE sports sedan to arrive in U.S. Jaguar showrooms in spring, 2016
Lineup to include Jaguar XE 20d and 35t models each in Premium, Prestige and R-Sport trim levels and available in RWD or AWD
XE 35t will feature a 340hp supercharged 3.0-liter V6 engine with a 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph1
XE 20d will feature high-efficiency 180hp 2.0-litre Ingenium diesel
Front engine, longitudinal rear wheel drive layout, with capability of accepting all-wheel drive
New Jaguar InControl® infotainment system features an 8 inch capacitive touch screen
Features Intelligent Active Driver Assistance technologies
The XE will launch in global markets in 2015 and in North America in 2016
Pricing to be announced at a later date

(MAHWAH, N.J.) - April 27, 2015 - The Jaguar lineup will significantly expand in 2016 with the addition of the brand's all new, aluminum intensive Jaguar XE compact sports sedan which will join the modern Jaguar sedan lineup alongside the all new Jaguar XF and Jaguar XJ sedans.

A true driver's car, the Jaguar XE redefines the concept of the sports sedan thanks to its advanced lightweight construction, streamlined styling, luxurious interior, and outstanding ride and handling. The XE goes on sale in 2015 in global markets and in 2016 in the United States and Canada.

Manufacturing of the aluminium-intensive Jaguar XE occurs at Jaguar Land Rover's Solihull plant in an all-new facility. Part of a £1.5bn investment, this flexible, purpose-built site will create 1,700 UK jobs.

The Jaguar XE 35t model provides responsiveness and refinement from a supercharged 3.0-liter V6. Generating 340hp and 332 lb-ft of torque, this engine is linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shift controls. Accelerating from 0-60 mph in just 4.9 seconds, the XE 35t has an electronically-limited top speed of 155 mph¹.

The fuel economy leader will be the Jaguar XE 20d powered by the company's new Ingenium 2.0 liter diesel powertrain delivering 180 hp and 318 lb-ft of torque. Mated with the eight-speed automatic transmission, the Jaguar XE 20d will be the brand's most fuel efficient model (EPA figures to be released at later date).

The Jaguar XE will be offered with a lighter version of the ZF 8-speed automatic used in the rest of the Jaguar range: this benchmark eight-speed transmission is controlled using the Jaguar rotary shifter and steering wheel shift paddles.

The aluminum-intensive Jaguar XE is the first model developed from the new JLR modular vehicle architecture. The long wheelbase and low seating position enable perfect proportions and a streamlined, coupe-like profile. The R-Sport trim level models' large front air intakes, satin chrome side vents, gloss black side window surrounds, side sills, discreet rear spoiler and optional 20-inch forged alloy wheels reinforce its' performance potential.

The cabin offers outstanding levels of comfort and spaciousness. Exquisite materials and finishes, combined with traditional Jaguar craftsmanship make this an interior without compare.

The Jaguar XE is equipped with electric power steering. This system is tuned to provide responsiveness and excellent feel, and offers improved efficiency over hydraulic systems.

Compelling design

The Jaguar XE was developed in parallel with the new modular architecture. The architecture unlocks design possibilities that did not exist before because the core dimensions were determined by design and engineering working together from the very beginning, under a philosophy of 'anything we can imagine, we can create.

This makes it possible to realize perfect proportions: short front and rear overhangs and dynamic, cab-rearward stance. The architecture also enables the XE to feature both a low, sporty driving position and a sleek, coupe-like profile.

The strongly-sculpted hood creates a taut, muscular appearance. The rising waistline adds to the sense of movement, while the form of the rear quarters takes inspiration from the F-TYPE Coupe. The signature J-Blade daytime running lights are a recognizable Jaguar design element. In the rear lights, a horizontal line intersecting a circle is a powerful styling feature inherited from the iconic E-Type.

Jaguar has a rich history of producing stunning, aerodynamically-efficient cars. The new Jaguar XE continues the tradition of uncompromised form and function. This achievement is the result of 1,200 computational fluid dynamics simulations and million hours of processor time.

"Our mission was to create an exciting and dynamic design clearly reflecting the XE positioning as a serious driver's car. The cab-rearward proportions and tight packaging achieve that and give the XE the appearance of movement even when it's standing still. It bears a strong family resemblance to the F-TYPE and will stand apart in the crowd."

- Ian Callum, Jaguar Director of Design

The spacious cabin cocoons front seat passengers with a deep center console which creates a cockpit-like feel. The F-TYPE-style instrument panel dials and the cluster needle sweep on start-up further emphasize the sports sedan attributes of the Jaguar XE.

Front and rear seat occupants enjoy generous amounts of head and legroom - the XE proves that sleek, streamlined styling and interior space need not be mutually exclusive; fine-grain leathers and details such as contrasting twin-needle stitching give the cabin a bespoke quality. The choice of gloss black, textured aluminum, and contemporary wood veneers enhance the luxurious, hand-crafted feel. Available ambient lighting in a range of up to 10 colors adds to the sense of occasion.

Aluminum-intensive unibody

Jaguar is highly experienced in the use of aluminum construction. The expertise in working with this lightweight material has culminated in the revolutionary body structure of the new Jaguar XE. It is the first model designed around this all-new modular architecture.

Much of the aluminum is high-strength, 6000-series alloy. The body sides are a perfect example: these complex pressings are formed in one piece, and what would once have been 1.5mm gauge sheet has been reduced to just 1.1mm.

Sustainability is a big part of the Jaguar aluminum story. Recycling this highly valuable material delivers impressive savings in overall CO₂ emissions and the new XE uses RC 5754 - an aluminum alloy made predominantly from recycled material. Future models will also use RC 5754 and this breakthrough will help Jaguar towards its goal of using 75 percent recycled material by 2020. The use of recycled aluminum reduces demand for primary aluminum, saving energy.

Riveting and bonding the lightweight body structure of the Jaguar XE consumes less energy than traditional spot welding. The XE also contains 101lbs. of recycled plastics and renewable materials, further reducing its environmental impact.

"The XE is as strong and light as it could possibly be thanks to exhaustive analysis and by bringing the latest engineering techniques to bear on its design. It has been challenging to accomplish but the XE structure is absolutely at the cutting edge of what is achievable today." -Dr. Mark White, Chief Technical Specialist, Jaguar; Body Complete

Chassis

The new Jaguar XE features a sophisticated double wishbone front suspension. The aluminum front spindles are light and stiff - forged from cast blanks using a patented production process while the rear suspension features an integral link system. This system delivers lateral and longitudinal stiffness for precise handling and a supple ride. Aluminum has been used extensively in the suspension, minimizing weight.

Offering incredible tuning possibilities and greater efficiency than traditional hydraulic systems, electric power steering (EPAS) will be standard on the XE.

Powertrain

For customers demanding ultimate performance and an exhilarating engine note from idle right up to the redline there's the Jaguar XE 35t model, which shares its supercharged 340hp 3.0-liter V6 with the acclaimed F-TYPE.

Direct injection and fully variable valve timing optimize power and torque throughout the rev range. The 90 degree cylinder bank angle provides space for the twin-vortex Roots-type supercharger, a balancer shaft ensures the engine runs smoothly.

Developing 340hp and 332 lb-ft of torque, the V6 provides the Jaguar XE 35t with exceptional performance: 0-60 mph takes just 4.9 seconds, and top speed is electronically-limited to 155 mph¹.

Jaguar is launching the new XE with an equally new engine family - Ingenium. The first Ingenium engine in the Jaguar XE in North America is the 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel with 180hp.

The Ingenium engine family's advanced modular design will provide petrol and diesel derivatives and was started from a clean-sheet to deliver performance, efficiency and refinement without compromise. This advanced in-house powertrain will be manufactured at the new JLR Engine Manufacturing Center near Wolverhampton in the UK. Proven over 2 million miles of real-world testing, Ingenium is the future of the low-CO₂ powertrain strategy at Jaguar Land Rover and is engineered to meet the most stringent exhaust emissions legislation worldwide.

"The new generation of Ingenium diesel engines are wholly designed and manufactured in-house at our new engine plant in Wolverhampton. No opportunity has been missed in ensuring their design is right on the cutting edge of technical advancement to achieve the highest levels of efficiency, performance and refinement."

Ron Lee, Group Chief Powertrain Engineer, Jaguar Cars

All Ingenium engines, developed from scratch by Jaguar engineers, are based around a deep-skirt aluminum cylinder block featuring thin-wall, press-fit cast iron liners: these offer the best balance of weight, surface finish, and robustness.

The engine's split-cooling system, mapped thermostat, and fully variable mechanical water pump enable standing water in the block while coolant circulates through the crossflow channels in the cylinder head. So the engine warms up more quickly, reducing friction and therefore fuel consumption.

Parasitic losses have been cut in other ways too: the electronically-controlled oil pump matches its flow rate according to engine speed, load and temperature, and switchable piston cooling jets operate only when needed.

Variable valve timing has been a feature on all Jaguar petrol engines for many years, and now the technology is making its way into the diesel too: the Ingenium units benefit from a cam phaser on the exhaust side. Variable exhaust valve timing enables more rapid catalyst heating, thereby minimizing harmful emissions during the critical warm-up phase.

Fuel is fed to the combustion chambers by a 1,800bar solenoid common rail system. Key attributes are low noise, high efficiency and excellent mixture formation.

Ingenium diesels are characterized by the rapid build-up of torque from very low engine speeds, enabled by highly efficient variable geometry turbochargers. Maximum torque is maintained over a wide rev range, ensuring instantaneous response and strong acceleration whenever the driver demands it.

Weighing only 138kg (304lb), this all-aluminum engine feature twin counter-rotating balancer shafts to cancel-out second order forces, offering the smoothness and power of a naturally aspirated six-cylinder but in a smaller, more efficient package.

An innovative feature is the sheet metal turbine housing integrated into the air-gap insulated exhaust manifold. As well as saving weight, the assembly's reduced thermal mass means that the catalyst reaches light-off temperature more quickly, reducing emissions. The low-inertia turbine wheel delivers outstanding transient response.

Active Safety and Driver Assistance features

The new light and stiff body structure of the Jaguar XE has been engineered to meet demanding legislative and consumer crash test requirements. Complementing the outstanding levels of protection it offers is a suite of advanced driver assistance systems designed to help and support the driver.

The Jaguar XE will be equipped with All Surface Progress Control (ASPC)². This all-new system, developed with the input of decades of Jaguar Land Rover experience in off-road traction systems, works like a low-speed cruise control. Functioning between 2 mph and 19 mph, ASPC is designed to precisely control the brake system and powertrain to deliver optimum traction in slippery conditions.

Projecting high-contrast color images onto the windshield, the optional laser heads-up display (HUD) technology provides the driver with information such as speed and navigation instructions.

Jaguar is one of the first manufacturers in the segment to use stereo camera technology. When fitted, this sensor is the 'eyes' of the optional autonomous emergency braking system for the Jaguar XE, providing measurements of speed and distance of objects ahead, and can initiate full braking to avoid or mitigate a collision. The stereo camera also performs traffic sign recognition and lane departure warning functions.

The XE also offers systems such as adaptive cruise control, closing vehicle sensing, blind spot monitoring, semi-automated parallel and perpendicular parking, and reverse traffic detection².

All-new infotainment system

The all-new Jaguar InControl® infotainment system offered on the XE provides the latest technologies to connect the car, driver and the outside world. At its heart is an eight-inch capacitive touchscreen featuring a clear, intuitive interface and fast response times³.

InControl Touch® supports Bluetooth®, audio streaming and USB connectivity. The Jaguar XE can also be fitted with an SD card-based navigation system which allows easy upgrades of map data, and voice control using plain speech gives access to any level of the system, without navigating through menus, so drivers can keep their eyes on the road³. Both systems feature a user-friendly map which can be utilized by touch and directed by pinch-to-zoom.

Smartphones are changing the way people interact with the world around them and the new Jaguar XE ensures that drivers can stay connected. Jaguar InControl Apps® allows users to seamlessly access and control smartphone apps through the vehicle's touchscreen³.

Jaguar InControl Remote® functionality allows users of iOS® and Android™ smartphones to connect to the car remotely to control car functions. These include seven-day timed pre-setting of the vehicle's climate control system, locking or unlocking the doors, or remote heating or cooling the cabin through engine start.

The new Jaguar XE will be available with two Meridian™ audio systems. These superb systems are the latest product of the long-standing partnership between Jaguar and British audio experts Meridian. Unique algorithms guarantee the best possible sound reproduction and tailor the experience to the interior's acoustics. Available systems range from 380 watt, 11-speaker systems to 825 watt, 14-speaker systems equipped with stereo and surround sound processors.

Further details, pricing and specifications of the Jaguar XE North American model line will be announced closer to the vehicles launch in 2016.

Jaguar Land Rover's SVO Division Could Do Its Own Models

Mon, 09 Mar 2015 13:25:00 +0000

Even though the SVO division is about a year old, the performance arm for Jaguar Land Rover has been making some news with such models as the Jaguar F-Type Project Seven and Range Rover Sport SVR. Now the division is possibly planning doing stand alone models.

“We’re certainly looking at that, and we’ve got the capability to do that. Is there an opportunity for us to do a completely stand-alone car? Maybe,” said John Edwards, head of SVO.

This would be a big step for a new division that still in its infancy. Bloomberg points out that its similar to AMG which when it was absorbed into Mercedes-Benz and started building high-performance variants of Mercedes' lineup. The past few years have seen the arm branch out and building their own stand-alone models - SLS and GT. But the difference is that AMG had a long time to develop a reputation - SVO doesn't have that luxury.

Source: Bloomberg Business

"Don't Call It An SUV" Said Jaguar

Mon, 08 Dec 2014 19:15:00 +0000

Jaguar's SUV is just around the corner, but the company will not be calling it an SUV.

“A Jaguar SUV is not possible. SUVs and 4x4s are for Land Rover. The Jaguar concept is far more road-orientated. It will need a different kind of name,” said Jaguar Land Rover boss Ralf Speth.

Autocar says the model is being referred as a “sports crossover”, due to the model having a heavy bias towards on-road dynamics. The company is planing to have a better descriptor when the model is launched.

Of course, it will be a vehicle which looks great and which has a strong stance, but the capability will be very different from a Land Rover. Mike Cross and his vehicle dynamics team will do an extraordinary job to make sure that it is sensational to drive on the road. It will be something special in that regard. Of course, it will not be anything like a sports car, but it will have a very specific character that sets it apart,” said Speth.

Source: Autocar

The Cat Strikes! Jaguar Reveals The 2016 XE

Mon, 08 Sep 2014 21:25:00 +0000

The long wait is almost over as Jaguar finally unveiled the new 2016 XE, its threat to the likes hreat to the likes of Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.

You can tell the XE is very much a Jaguar in its design. The front end is adorned with the rectangular grille, angled headlights, and long hood that are seen on the XF. The side profile features a sloping roofline and fender vents. The short rear end and wheels pushed to the far corners help give the XE a athletic pose. Jaguar says the XE's body has a drag coefficient of 0.26 cd.

The XE's interior looks to be taking some ideas from the F-Type. The gauge cluster features two analog gauges sit on either side of a color screen. Jaguar's new InControl infotainment system sits prominently in the center stack, while a rotary shift knob handles gear selection.

Jaguar has only released information on one engine for the XE. The supercharged 3.0L V6 which powers a number of Jaguar vehicles produces 340 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. This is paired to a eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine is standard on the XE S model and can hit 60 MPH in 5.5 seconds. Expect more information on other engines to come later on.

The XE will ride on a a largely aluminum chassis with a double-wishbone front suspension. Steering will come in the form of a electric-power system, a first for the automaker.

Now time for the bad news. We won't see the XE till 2016 as a 2017 model. So we'll be waiting a while for Jaguar's entrant in the compact luxury battle.

Source: Jaguar

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Press Release is on Page 2

WORLD PREMIER OF JAGUAR XE AT LONDON'S EARLS COURT

First showing of the performance-orientated Jaguar XE S
The Jaguar XE S features a 340hp supercharged 3.0-liter V6 engine with a 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph1
Front engine, longitudinal rear wheel drive layout, with capability of accepting all-wheel drive
Highly aerodynamic with a drag coefficient of 0.26 Cd
Intuitive new InControl™ infotainment system will be available
Intelligent Active Driver Assistance technologies to support the driver
The XE will launch in the UK in 2015 and U.S. in 2016

(MAHWAH, N.J.) – September 8, 2014 - The Jaguar XE has been revealed to the world at an event held at Earl's Court, London.

A true driver's car, the Jaguar XE redefines the concept of the sports sedan thanks to its advanced lightweight construction, streamlined styling, luxurious interior, and outstanding ride and handling. The XE goes on sale in 2015 in the UK and in 2016 in the U.S. The high-performance S model will be at the top of the line-up.

The Jaguar XE S provides responsiveness and refinement from a supercharged 3.0-liter V6. Generating 340hp and 332 lb-ft of torque, this engine is linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shift controls. Accelerating to 0-60 mph in just 4.9 seconds, the XE S has an electronically-limited top speed of 155 mph1.

The aluminum-intensive Jaguar XE is the first model developed from the new JLR modular vehicle architecture. The long wheelbase and low seating position enable perfect proportions and a streamlined, coupe-like profile. The S model's large front air intakes, chrome side vents, discreet rear spoiler and optional 20-inch forged alloy wheels reinforce its' performance potential.

The cabin offers outstanding levels of comfort and spaciousness. Exquisite materials and finishes, combined with traditional Jaguar craftsmanship make this an interior without compare.

The Jaguar XE will be the first Jaguar to be equipped with electric power steering. This system is tuned to provide responsiveness and excellent feel, and offers improved efficiency over hydraulic systems.

The aluminum-intensive Jaguar XE is manufactured at an all-new facility at the Jaguar Land Rover Solihull plant. Part of a $2.5 billion USD (£1.5bn GBP) investment, this highly flexible, manufacturing site will create 1,700 jobs.

The XE completes the Jaguar sedan range sitting below the XF and XJ models.

Compelling designThe Jaguar XE was developed in parallel with the new modular architecture. The architecture unlocks design possibilities that did not exist before because the core dimensions were determined by design and engineering working together from the very beginning, under a philosophy of 'anything we can imagine, we can create.

This makes it possible to realize perfect proportions: short front overhang, longer rear overhang and dynamic, cab-rearward stance. The architecture also enables the XE to feature both a low, sporty driving position and a sleek, coupe-like profile.

The strongly-sculpted hood creates a taut, muscular appearance. The rising waistline adds to the sense of movement, while the form of the rear quarters takes inspiration from the F-TYPE Coupe. The signature J-Blade running lights are a recognizable Jaguar design element. In the rear lights, a horizontal line intersecting a circle is a powerful styling feature inherited from the iconic E-Type.

Jaguar has a rich history of producing stunning, aerodynamically-efficient cars. The new Jaguar XE continues the tradition of uncompromised form and function: its streamlined shape has a low drag coefficient of 0.26. This achievement is the result of 1,200 computational fluid dynamics simulations and million hours of processor time.

– Ian Callum, Jaguar Director of Design

The spacious cabin cocoons front seat passengers with a deep center console which creates a cockpit-like feel. The F-TYPE-style dials and the cluster needle sweep on start-up further emphasize the sports sedan attributes of the Jaguar XE.

Front and rear seat occupants enjoy generous amounts of head and legroom – the XE proves that sleek, streamlined styling and interior space need not be mutually exclusive; fine-grain leathers and details such as contrasting twin-needle stitching give the cabin a bespoke quality. The choice of gloss black, textured aluminum, and contemporary wood veneers enhance the luxurious, hand-crafted feel. Available ambient lighting in a range of up to 10 colors adds to the sense of occasion.

Aluminum-intensive unibodyJaguar is highly experienced in the use of aluminum construction. The expertise in working with this lightweight material has culminated in the revolutionary body structure of the new Jaguar XE. It is the first model designed around an all-new modular architecture.

Sustainability is a big part of the Jaguar aluminum story. Recycling this highly valuable material delivers impressive savings in overall CO2 emissions and the new XE uses RC 5754 – an aluminum alloy made predominantly from recycled material. Future models will also use RC 5754 and this breakthrough will help Jaguar towards its goal of using 75 percent recycled material by 2020. The use of recycled aluminum reduces demand for primary aluminum, saving energy.

– Dr. Mark White, Chief Technical Specialist, Jaguar; Body Complete

ChassisThe new Jaguar XE features a sophisticated double wishbone front suspension. The aluminum front spindles are light and stiff – forged from cast blanks using a patented production process while the rear suspension features an integral link system. This system delivers lateral and longitudinal stiffness for precise handling and a supple ride. Aluminum has been used extensively in the suspension, minimizing weight.

Offering incredible tuning possibilities and greater efficiency than traditional hydraulic systems, electric power steering (EPAS) will be standard on the XE.

Powertrain

For customers demanding ultimate performance and an exhilarating engine note from idle right up to the redline there's the Jaguar XE S, which shares its supercharged 3.0-liter V6 with the acclaimed F-TYPE.Direct injection and fully variable valve timing optimize power and torque throughout the rev range. The 90 degree cylinder bank angle provides space for the twin-vortex Roots-type supercharger, a balancer shaft ensures the engine runs smoothly.

Developing 340hp and 332 lb-ft of torque, the V6 provides the Jaguar XE S with exceptional performance: 0-60 mph takes just 4.9 seconds, and top speed is electronically-limited to 155 mph.

The Jaguar XE will receive the new family of Ingenium engines. This advanced in-house modular design began from a clean sheet and will be manufactured at the new JLR Engine Manufacturing Center in the UK.

Proven over 2 million miles of real-world testing, Ingenium is the future of the low-CO2 powertrain strategy at Jaguar and is engineered to deliver fuel efficiency, refinement and performance.

Active Safety and Driver Assistance features

The Jaguar XE will be equipped with All Surface Progress Control (ASPC)2. This all-new system, developed with the input of decades of Jaguar Land Rover experience in off-road traction systems, works like a low-speed cruise control. Functioning between 2 mph and 19 mph, ASPC is designed to precisely control the brake system and powertrain to deliver optimum traction in slippery conditions.

Projecting high-contrast color images onto the windshield, the optional laser heads-up display (HUD) technology provides the driver with information such as speed and navigation instructions.

The XE also offers systems such as adaptive cruise control, closing vehicle sensing, blind spot monitoring, semi-automated parallel and perpendicular parking, and reverse traffic detection2.

All-new infotainment systemThe all-new Jaguar InControl® infotainment system offered on the XE provides the latest technologies to connect the car, driver and the outside world. At its heart is an eight-inch touchscreen featuring a clear, intuitive interface and fast response times3.

InControl Touch® supports Bluetooth®, audio streaming and USB connectivity. The Jaguar XE can be fitted with an SD card-based navigation system which allows easy upgrades of map data and voice control using plain speech gives access to any level of the system, without navigating through menus, so drivers can keep their eyes on the road3.

Smartphones are changing the way people interact with the world around them so the new Jaguar XE ensures that drivers can stay connected. With a subscribed data plan, the Jaguar XE functions as a Wi-Fi hotspot, enabling multiple devices to connect to the internet.

Jaguar InControl Remote® functionality allows users of iOS® and Android™ smartphones to connect to the car remotely to control car functions. These include seven-day timed pre-setting of the vehicle's climate control system, locking or unlocking the doors, or starting the engine. Jaguar InControl Apps® allows users to seamlessly access smartphone apps through the vehicle's touchscreen3.

The new Jaguar XE will be available with Meridian™ audio systems. These superb systems are the latest product of the long-standing partnership between Jaguar and British audio experts Meridian. Unique algorithms guarantee the best possible sound reproduction and tailor the experience to the interior's acoustics.

Detail of the Jaguar XE U.S. model line will be announced when the car is launched in 2016.

A Date Has Been Set: September 8th For The 2016 Jaguar XE

Tue, 15 Jul 2014 18:15:00 +0000

Jaguar has announced September 8th as the date they will reveal the production version of the 2016 XE compact sedan. Along with the date, the British automaker has dropped a few more hints for their new compact luxury sedan.

The XE's suspension is comprised of a front suspension based on the design used in the F-Type, a new integral link rear suspension, and a electric power steering system which is said to deliver the "renowned Jaguar feel and response.”

Jaguar also talked about the All Surface Progress Control (ASPC) which is said to enable smooth launches on slippery surfaces on rear-drive models. ASPC works like a low-speed cruise control system to get the vehicle moving.

As for engines, the XE will be first model to debut Jaguar Land Rover's new Ingenium engine family. The Ingenium family is made up of an aluminum block that share the same bore, stroke, cylinder spacing, and 500-cc cylinder capacity for gasoline and diesel versions. All engines will come with turbochargers, direct high-pressure fuel injection, variable valve timing, and start-stop technology. Ingenium is also a modular design which means Jaguar Land will be able to scale up or down to create different displacements, and accommodate a range of powertrain layouts.

Source: Jaguar

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached atwilliam.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Press Release is on Page 2

WORLD PREMIERE OF ALL-NEW JAGUAR XE ANNOUNCED FOR SEPTEMBER 8, 2014

The all-new XE will be a Compact Sport Sedan from Jaguar
The XE will go on sale in 2015 in Europe, and 2016 in North America
The launch will be held in London on September 8, 2014
Built on an all-new, aluminum-intensive architecture
The XE features advanced suspension design which will offer thrilling performance, agile handling and precise, responsive steering, with outstanding levels of refinement

(MAHWAH, NJ) – July 14, 2014 – Jaguar will unveil the latest addition to its sports sedan car family, the Jaguar XE, at a star-studded event in London on September 8th. The event will mark the unveiling of a true driver’s car; one that redefines the concept of the sports sedan.

Jaguar will bring levels of innovation with its lightweight construction expertise and sophisticated chassis technology in addition to the new family of Ingenium engines – all designed, engineered and manufactured in the UK.

Built around an all-new, aluminum-intensive architecture, the XE combines thrilling performance, agile handling and precise, responsive steering, with outstanding levels of refinement.

Mike Cross, Chief Engineer of Vehicle Integrity, said, “Jaguar vehicles’ have always been renowned for a balance of precise handling and high-quality ride. The XE is the culmination of everything the company has learned over the years. The Integral Link rear suspension provides a combination of supple ride and crisp handling that is unmatched in this segment. We are on target to deliver a vehicle that dynamically outperforms our rivals.”

Integral Link rear suspension

The Integral Link rear suspension delivers major benefits over conventional multi-link designs. By providing lateral and longitudinal stiffness, the Integral Link delivers sharp response and handling while retaining a refined, luxurious ride. Many components of the Integral Link suspension are made from forged or hollow-cast aluminum.

Front suspension

Mounted to a subframe with cast aluminum suspension towers, the double wishbone of the front suspension on the XE delivers exceptional handling and road holding. The advanced design is based on the F-TYPE sports car. This design ensures the XE enjoys a similar level of agility and ‘connected’ steering feel. Like the rear suspension, components are made from cast and forged aluminum.

New Electric Power Assisted Steering

Jaguar is renowned for its steering feel and this will carry on with the XE. The XE becomes the first Jaguar vehicle to be equipped with the latest generation Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS). Electric Power Assisted Steering allows a much greater scope for tuning than hydraulic-based systems. Benefits include excellent steering feel, variable steering damping, ease of low-speed maneuvering and the ability to adapt to Jaguar Drive Control settings. EPAS also enables a range of Driver Aid features.

All Surface Progress Control

Even with the best traction control, rear-wheel drive cars can experience a sub-optimal start on very slippery surfaces. For that reason, Jaguar has developed All Surface Progress Control (ASPC). Developed from decades of Jaguar Land Rover experience in off-road traction systems, ASPC can electronically modulate traction with greater precision than a human driver can achieve. The system works like a low-speed cruise control to improve forward progress under slippery conditions.

Rumorpile: XK Coupe To Transition Into The XJ Coupe

Sun, 30 Mar 2014 15:35:00 +0000

During this summer, Jaguar will quietly say good-bye to the XK Coupe and Convertible. The company says poor sales and the introduction of the F-Type has made the company decide the XK needs to hit the road. That doesn't mean Jaguar isn't working on a replacement though.

Auto Express reports that Jaguar is working on a new 2+2 grand tourer to take on the likes of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe and Bentley Continental GT. The new coupe, wearing the XJ nameplate, will feature certain design cues from the F-Type such as flowing lines, muscular rear wheel arches, and wraparound taillights. But the coupe will have a few of its own touches like an oversized grille and horizontal headlights.

The new coupe will use a lengthened version of the F-Type's platform and have a range of supercharged V6 and V8 engines, and a diesel engine.

The coupe is not expected to arrive till sometime after 2017 or so.

Source: Auto Express

Spying: Jaguar's Compact Sedan Is Slowly Coming To Shape

Wed, 26 Feb 2014 17:05:00 +0000

It has been a long time coming, but it happened this week. A spy photographer got the first shots of Jaguar's new XS compact sedan in what appears to be its production ready design this week. Under heavy camouflage, we can make out the new XS having similar proportions to the XF midsize sedan. Both appear to have a similar front clip with the oval shaped grille and elongated headlights. Around back, the XS looks to have a shorter decklid.

Powertrains are expected to be 2.0L Turbocharged four and 3.0L Supercharged six for the U.S. All-wheel drive is expected, along with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The XS is expected to be shown as a concept later this year at the Paris Motor Show, with the production model being shown at Geneva in 2015.

Source: Automobile Magazine

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Frankfurt Motor Show: Jaguar C-X17 and It's Modular Platform

Tue, 10 Sep 2013 13:30:00 +0000

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

September 10, 2013

The news of Jaguar showing off a crossover concept is already huge news. But that wasn't enough for Jaguar as they announced something big with their concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Let's dive into the crossover first. This is the Jaguar C-X17 concept and its a glimpse into what a Jaguar crossover could look like. The styling of the C-X17 borrows a lot from Jaguar's current lineup. The front end has a large grill and narrow headlights that are from the XJ. The back end has muscular haunches and taillights borrowed from the F-Type. A set of twenty-three inch wheels finish the exterior.

The inside is very much a concept with seating for four, loads of leather and brushed aluminum trim, and a unique infotainment system that allows passengers to share photos, videos, status updates, and more to other passengers or to the outside world.

No word on the powertrain, but Jaguar does say the C-X17 comes with their 'interactive' all-wheel drive system with brake-based torque-vectoring setup.

Now onto the 'big' news with the C-X17. The concept premiered a new aluminum unibody architecture. The architecture promises to be more rigid, lightweight, and sustainable than Jaguar's current aluminum architecture. More importantly, the architecture is modular. This means Jaguar can produce a number of vehicles from this one architecture.

Jaguar announced that the first production vehicle to use this will be a midsize sedan due out in 2015.

Source: Jaguar

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Press Release is on Page 2

JAGUAR ANNOUNCES ALL-NEW TECHNICALLY ADVANCED ALUMINUM ARCHITECTURE AND REVEALS C-X17 SPORTS CROSSOVER CONCEPT

AT-A-GLANCE

• Jaguar announces next-generation lightweight technologies in the form of an all-new advanced aluminum unibody architecture

• It is lightweight, extremely stiff and incorporates innovative technologies that reflect Jaguar's commitment to sustainability

• This advanced lightweight architecture will form the basis for a new range of future Jaguars; the first product will be a mid-size premium C/D segment sedan launching beginning in 2015, and in North America in 2016

• This will be the first aluminum unibody product in the segment and is positioned to be the most advanced, efficient and refined sports sedan in its class

• Power will be provided by a range of engines including the new family of high-output, fuel-efficient gasoline and diesel engines to be built at Jaguar Land Rover's new UK engine manufacturing facility

• These will enable Jaguar to offer a range of vehicles that include models with class-leading performance, including top speeds of over 300km/h (186mph), and emissions lower than 100g of CO2 per km

• Looking to the future, the C-X17 concept is a study to demonstrate the capabilities of the new advanced aluminum unibody architecture

• It blends the sleek design and sporting performance that are hallmarks of Jaguar, with the crossover benefits of an assured driving position and high levels of flexibility

• The C-X17 also showcases advanced interior technologies including Interactive Surface Console – a multi-screen infotainment network that links passengers with each other and the outside world through social media channels

SUMMARY

Jaguar's first ever sports crossover concept vehicle – the C-X17 – makes its debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show.

The C-X17 has been created as a design study to introduce Jaguar's all-new advanced aluminum unibody architecture on which an exciting range of future Jaguar vehicles will be built. This new philosophy underpins the entire innovative future of the Jaguar brand. A modular and scalable vehicle architecture, engineered and developed for Jaguar, the architecture is high-strength, lightweight, extremely stiff and incorporates innovative efficiency technologies. It enables flexible high-volume production while allowing creative design freedom and competitive interior packaging, and delivering the unique character, dynamics, performance and luxury that Jaguar is famous for. This will enable Jaguar to grow its product portfolio, targeting high-growth areas of the premium market.

As a sports crossover, the Jaguar C-X17 stretches the design possibilities of the segment by combining the character and driving experience of a sports car with increased presence, style and flexibility. The sports crossover concept represents the potential expansion of Jaguar's portfolio of body styles, with the associated enhancement of the brand's relevance and appeal to a wider global audience.

"The C-X17 sports crossover represents an exciting new direction for Jaguar. Its purpose is to highlight our all-new aluminum architecture. With this technical foundation, we will dramatically expand Jaguar's product offering, market potential and customer appeal. This new philosophy will bring technology from our top-of-the-range products into new growing premium segments, and when combined with our new ultra-efficient engines, we will set a global standard. Add to these rational values, the class-leading dynamics, and the beauty and purity of form that Jaguar is renowned for, and we have the formula for a monumental leap forward."

Adrian Hallmark, Global Brand Director, Jaguar

Jaguar's first product from the new architecture will be a new premium C/D segment sedan. Its global rollout will begin in 2015, and in North America in 2016, and it will be the first aluminum unibody product in the segment.

Power will be provided by engines with a wide range of capacities and output, all delivering inspirational performance and offering the latest innovations in fuel-efficient technologies without sacrificing drivability. These will include the high-output gasoline and diesel engines to be built at Jaguar Land Rover's new engine manufacturing facility in the UK, as well as the powerful V6 gasoline engine in the F-TYPE. These attributes will enable Jaguar to offer a wider variety of vehicles, with exhilarating performance, top speeds of over 300km/h (186mph), as well as emissions below 100g of CO2 per kilometer.

The C-X17 concept illustrates the diversity of vehicles that could be produced using the architecture. A four-seater sports crossover concept built on the aluminum-intensive architecture; it blends sleek lines, sporting design and luxurious sophistication with enhanced flexibility and an assured driving position. In its exciting proportions, purity of form and its beautiful lines – overseen by Director of Design Ian Callum – the C-X17 is every inch a Jaguar car.

The C-X17 could offer refined on-road dynamics and sedan car-like handling, thanks to its low height, optimized center of gravity, and use of cutting-edge dynamic technologies such as Torque Vectoring in which the car intelligently uses its brake system to balance the distribution of engine torque to the wheels during cornering, reducing understeer and maximizing grip.

"We designed the C-X17 from the ground up from a distinct set of principles, a deep sense of what makes a Jaguar: exciting proportions, clean lines, balance of form. Assertive and powerful, yet with a beautiful sensuality about it, the C-X17 is boldly, distinctively Jaguar."

Ian Callum, Design Director, Jaguar

At 4,718mm (185.7") long and 1,649mm (64.9") tall, its dimensions are clearly that of a crossover, yet in its design it shares strong family traits with Jaguar's current range. For instance, the grille is an evolution of the distinctive nose of the Jaguar XJ luxury sedan, while the sculptured haunch lines hint strongly of the award-winning design of the Jaguar F-TYPE sports car. A low-sitting stance and overall profile combine with 23-inch alloy wheels to give the C-X17 a sporting, aggressive presence, while the LED headlamps, J-shaped running lights and frosted-glass foglights set into the large front intakes add to the C-X17 vehicle's purposeful intent. The C-X17 is painted in a lustrous Cesium Blue finish, with gloss black brightwork surrounding the windows, while the split five-spoke alloys are Dark Atlas Graphite with gloss black finishers.

The interior of the C-X17 features four individual bucket seats, which are luxuriously appointed, yet designed for a sculpted, lightweight appearance. The car's unique roof features contoured vanes that provide a distinctive 'elliptical' panoramic view to the C-X17 vehicle's passengers, while retaining the roof's sleek appearance from the exterior. Two additional rear-mounted leisure seats incorporated in the cargo area floor swing out for recreational use. Accessories such as a flashlight and a camera are positioned in storage compartments in the cargo area.

The interior of the C-X17 marries premium, authentic materials and traditional craftsmanship with modern finishing techniques. It features a combination of Jet saddle Connolly leather and Orchid Connolly leather on the instrument panel, seats, armrests, doors, floor and in the cargo area, with stitching on the saddle leather creating a tactile feel. A subtle layered effect is created through the use of die-cut Houndstooth-pattern leather patches on the main leather panels. Ruthenium, milled aluminum and black brushed anodized metal finishes impart a darker tonal effect to the interior of the C-X17. The door finish is gloss black.

A center tunnel running the length of the car, from the instrument panel through to the rear passenger seats, incorporates the Interactive Surface Console – an interactive multi-passenger infotainment hub with a series of touchscreens under a continuous panel of transparent acrylic glass, which in conjunction with the secure in-car wi-fi network, enables the vehicle's passengers to connect and share experiences with each other and the outside world via social media. The premium in-car digital audio system in the C-X17 has been specially designed for the vehicle by British specialist audio firm Meridian, and the car's center console is configured for a Heads Up Display projector.

ALL-NEW ALUMINUM ARCHITECTURE: UNDERPINNING THE FUTURE

The all new Aluminum Architecture represents a completely new philosophy that underpins the innovative future of the Jaguar brand, enabling Jaguar to significantly grow its product portfolio, targeting high-growth areas of the premium market in global markets.

The first Jaguar vehicle to be delivered from the new architecture will be a new C/D segment premium sedan, which will be rolled-out globally from 2015 and in North America in 2016. The first aluminum unibody product in its segment, the new sedan will be produced at an all-new, ultra high-tech production facility in Solihull, creating new jobs and substantial opportunities for the supplier base.

The aluminum-intensive architecture will be modular and scalable, providing a high degree of flexibility and making it possible to produce a wider bandwidth of models and derivatives than ever before. It is lightweight, extremely stiff and incorporates innovative technologies which reflect Jaguar's commitment to sustainability, such as a new high-strength alloy made from almost 100% recycled raw material.

The architecture is being carefully developed to fully incorporate all the vehicle attributes established by Jaguar engineers, while its flexibility and scope will deliver an individual character for each one. Jaguar design and engineering teams collaborated closely on its development from the outset to ensure versatility of design combined with fully competitive interior packaging.

The flexibility that this architecture will provide, means Jaguar designers and engineers can apply the philosophy "anything we can imagine, we can create," to deliver a new portfolio of products less restricted by technical or manufacturing constraints. The new architecture will allow Jaguar to move into higher volume production, and deliver the unique character, breath-taking design, outstanding vehicle dynamics, performance and luxury that Jaguar is famous for. The flexibility of the new architecture will enable the manufacture of different products on the same production line at the same time. The highly efficient, state-of-the-art production process will allow rapid response to variations in market demand for individual models by balancing production volume accordingly.

Powertrains

Future Jaguar vehicles will be powered by engines with a wide range of capacities and output, all delivering inspirational performance and offering the latest innovations in fuel-efficient technologies, without sacrificing drivability or feel. The new sedan will be the first vehicle to be equipped with all-new four-cylinder diesel and gasoline engines, allowing Jaguar to break the 100g CO2/km barrier for the first time. These advanced, high-output engines will be built at Jaguar Land Rover's new engine production facility, currently under construction in Wolverhampton in the UK as part of a £500 million investment, which will be operational from 2015.

These vehicles are also designed to be powered by the powerful V6 gasoline engine seen in the Jaguar F-TYPE sports car, which, combined with the lightweight architecture, will bestow them with high specific power output as in the F-TYPE. Together, the family of engines will offer the best of both worlds and deliver all-encompassing capabilities: sporting performance and enhanced fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions.

C-X17 DYNAMICS: FLEET-FOOTED AND SURE-FOOTED

As a sports crossover, the C-X17 concept is positioned as a driver's car. It has an on-road bias, and its low height, optimized center of gravity and lightweight all-aluminum body endow it with superior, car-like driving dynamics and a level of agility that would make it quite at home on the fastest roads. The C-X17 also features cutting-edge dynamic technologies such as Torque Vectoring, a system which constantly monitors the vehicle's cornering dynamics and, when required, intelligently uses the brake system to rebalance the distribution of engine torque to the wheels, in order to reduce understeer and maximize grip.

With its 213mm (8.3") ground clearance and intelligent All-Wheel Drive, the C-X17 could also offer reassuring capability and enhanced grip on poor roads and in varying weather conditions. Jaguar's intelligent All-Wheel Drive system continuously monitors grip levels and driver inputs and uses feed-forward torque distribution to both pre-empt and react to wheel-slip, providing greater driver confidence and vehicle stability in low-grip conditions. In normal grip conditions, the system predominantly delivers drive to the rear wheels, providing the dynamic driving experience all Jaguar vehicles are renowned for.

EXTERIOR DESIGN: BEAUTY OF PROPORTION

With a crossover being a new journey for Jaguar, Director of Design Ian Callum and his team were clear that the C-X17 would not compromise on the time-honored values of Jaguar car design: purity of form, beauty of line and balance of proportion. Even as it subscribed to the practicalities expected of the crossover category, the C-X17 had to be stylish, sporty and exciting. It had to instantly stand out from the crowd, yet retain the sense of timeless sophistication that is typically Jaguar.

The C-X17 has dynamic yet perfectly balanced proportions, with the low profile and large wheels giving it a powerful, planted stance. In terms of form, it is sleek and fast, relying on pure lines rather than exaggeration or showmanship. The long hood's twin 'power bulges' and prominent grille impart a muscular look. The C-X17 headlamps hint at the sedan siblings while the grille is inspired by the XJ, resulting in a distinctive family look that is reassuringly familiar yet uniquely appealing. The grille features a hexagonal pattern, with small aluminum panels within its structure that can close to enhance the vehicle's aerodynamic properties.

The twin 'heartlines' on the C-X17 are clearly visible when viewed in profile. Two clean and simple design lines, with a subtle crease in the metal to catch the light, visually tie together the shoulder and haunch of the C-X17. The accentuated length of the windows adds to the vehicle's overall sense of sleekness.

The rear of the vehicle has a distinctive touch of sports car about it, with the haunch, taillights and detailing all bringing to mind the seductive Jaguar F-TYPE. The roofline of the C-X17 swoops quickly rearwards, culminating in a distinctive cantilevered spoiler over a steeply raked rear window that enhances the crossover's sporting, 'fast-even-at-standstill' appearance.

The exterior paint finish is a lustrous Cesium Blue, and the window liners are gloss black, with the only brightwork on the vehicle being the badging at each end, lending the car a darker, sportier look. The large 23-inch wheels, which enhance the solid stance of the C-X17, are a one-off design with five split spokes. They have a Dark Atlas graphite grey finish with gloss black finishers on the spokes.

INTERIOR DESIGN: CRAFTSMANSHIP AND TECHNOLOGY

"The C-X17's design is timeless, yet absolutely up-to-the-minute. Artisan treatment meets modern techniques in an innovative cabin full of luxurious touches and cutting-edge technical ideas."

Julian Thomson, Director of Advanced Design, Jaguar

The interior of the C-X17 blends high-end interactive technology with premium, traditionally crafted materials, resulting in a spacious, airy, luxurious and sophisticated cabin.

The C-X17 seats four passengers in individual bucket seats. The seating position is relatively low for a crossover, giving the occupants a feeling of sitting deep within the cabin. The seats are lightweight units with a sculpted free-standing appearance, visually enhancing the airiness of the cabin.

The spacious cargo area incorporates two leisure seats that swing up and out of the cargo area floor for use when the car is stopped and the rear hatch opened. Solidly constructed from milled aluminum and finished in Connolly saddle leather, these seats swing outwards on a beautifully engineered hinge to provide a practical seating area when the car is stationary. Accessories such as a flashlight and camera are positioned in leather holsters in storage compartments located in the cargo area.

Panoramic sculpted roof

The sense of openness inside the cabin is heightened by the unique panoramic roof on the C-X17. The designers of the C-X17 have constructed the interior of the roof from a series of sculpted vanes running from front to rear, closely arranged in parallel and integrated into the header and cant rails. They are contoured on the lower side to generate extra headroom, and shaped to create a ring of space that enables a whole-roof view of the sky above, giving the occupants a sense of openness. The topside of the vanes follows the smooth profile of the glass roof, maintaining the sleek exterior lines of the C-X17.

Premium two-tone leather trim

The interior of the C-X17 is a juxtaposition of premium traditional materials and modern finishing techniques. Designers drew inspiration from a variety of sources, from extruded aluminum lampshades and lattice-framed stools to premium leather shoes, jackets and handbags, which favored strong color contrasts.

Accordingly, the seats, instrument panel, floors, doors and cargo area are finished in an overlapping combination of Jet saddle leather and Orchid leather panels. Renowned British leather specialist Connolly, the benchmark name in premium automotive cabin craftsmanship, created the bespoke leather panels especially for the C-X17. The 3mm-thick saddle leather, which features bands of stitching to increase the passenger's tactile experience of these surfaces, is die-cut in a Houndstooth pattern inspired by traditional tailoring materials, lending the interior of the car a classy yet contemporary feel.

The interior door finish is gloss black, while for the interior metal finishes, ruthenium (a member of the platinum family) is used instead of brightwork, creating a darker, more tonal effect that suits the subtle, premium feel of the cabin.

Multi-passenger interactivity

The C-X17 takes interactivity to a new level with the unique Interactive Surface Console that runs the length of the car's center tunnel, from the center console of the dashboard through to the rear seats. Made up of a series of interconnecting touch screens encased in transparent acrylic glass, the Interactive Surface Console connects those in the rear cabin with the driver and front seat passengers via a secure in-car Wi-Fi network.

The Interactive Surface Console allows the vehicle occupants to upload pictures, video and sound files from their mobile devices and share them with their fellow passengers, as well as other social media channels. Using the touchscreens and an intuitive user interface, information can be 'flicked' forwards and rearwards between the front and the rear passengers. By enabling sharing, both in terms of technology and information, between the occupants of the C-X17, the Interactive Surface Console puts as much focus on the rear compartment as on the front and immerses all four passengers in a unified multisensory experience.

The C-X17 features a 12-loudspeaker system specifically developed for the vehicle by British ultra-premium audio experts Meridian. Designed closely in conjunction with the development of the interior of the C-X17, the system draws on Meridian's award-winning digital sound processing technology. Trifield technology creates an all-enveloping sound field that makes each listener feel that the music is exclusively focused on him or her. With sub-woofer drive units in the rear center tunnel, dashboard-mounted tweeters, speakers in the A and B pillars, twin door speakers, rear speakers, and head-height speakers situated in the tops of the front seat head rests, this unique system enables every occupant of the C-X17 to enjoy optimum, authentic sound for an exceptional in-car audio experience.

The instrument panel in the C-X17 has a twin-dial configurable TFT console with provision for a Heads Up Display – a system which projects vital information onto the windscreen for the driver to process quickly, akin to the systems used in modern fighter aircraft.

The gearshift has a rotary dial, finished in ruthenium, which rises on activation and serves as the interface to toggle between driving modes such as Road, Sport or All-Road. Milled aluminum vents on the console, seats and doors mirror the pattern of the grille mesh.

C-X17 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Dimensions (mm)

Length 4718

Wheelbase 2905

Height 1649

Width 1959

Ground clearance 213

Jaguar Teases The C-X17 Concept

Mon, 02 Sep 2013 14:35:00 +0000

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

September 2, 2013

A week before the Frankfurt Motor Show, Jaguar released a teaser to their showing called C-X17. The teaser is either showing either a low-slung crossover or a sporty wagon. We're thinking its the former. In a press release, Jaguar says "the concept illustrates the diversity of vehicles that could be produced using this architecture, which underpins the innovative future of the Jaguar brand."

Source: Jaguar

Press Release is on Page 2

JAGUAR TO UNVEIL C-X17 CONCEPT STUDY AND INTRODUCE NEW ADVANCED VEHICLE ARCHITECTURE AT FRANKFURT SHOW

(WHITLEY, UK) – September 1, 2013 - The C-X17 has been created as a design study to introduce Jaguar's new, highly-advanced, modular aluminum architecture.

The concept illustrates the diversity of vehicles that could be produced using this architecture, which underpins the innovative future of the Jaguar brand.

Jaguar will also display its newly introduced production models at the Frankfurt Motor Show. These will include the recently launched 'R' performance models – the XJR and XFR-S – as well as the highly-acclaimed F-TYPE.

Jaguar Imagines A Future Without A V8 Engine

Thu, 22 Aug 2013 16:00:00 +0000

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

August 22, 2013

Up until very recently, the entire Jaguar lineup in the U.S. were exclusively powered by V8 engines. That has been changing in the past year with the brand introducing V6 and turbo-four engines into their lineup. This trend of downsizing could continue with Jaguar with the brand possibly giving up the V8 engine due to emission regulations.

"We are not wedded to V8s. Can Jaguar exist without a V8? The answer is yes, but is it our intention at this stage to eliminate the V8 from our engine pallete? Clearly not because we need it for our performance," said Jaguar's product and marketing director, Steven de Ploey.

de Ploey said that Jaguar is looking at a number of alternatives that reduce emissions while retaining performance. One of those alternatives is to drop supercharging and go with turbocharging due to emissions. For the timebeing, Jaguar will be sticking with supercharging as it is is still "the heart of Jaguar's performance proposition."

But if that time comes where the V8 must be retired, Jaguar might have a few tricks up its sleeve.

"When we have the technology that delivers intelligent performance at the same level will we even consider such as move. Some of the stuff we have already exploited to the extreme in the C-X75 is the kind of thinking for us and is an essential test bed to see how we could evolve from today to something that is sustainable in the future," stated de Ploey.

Source: Drive.com.au

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Rumorpile: Jaguar Ponders A Entry-Level FWD Model

Mon, 19 Aug 2013 13:15:00 +0000

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

August 19, 2013

From the 'this isn't really happening, is it?' file, a new report from Autocar says that Jaguar is considering a lineup of small, front-wheel drive models. Why? Economy and emission regulations.

The European Union wants to have a manufacturer's lineup to produce an average 95 grams of CO2 per kilometer by 2020 and get lower in the coming years. In April, the European Parliament voted in laws that would accomplish this. Manufacturers who make more than 300,000 vehicles per year must meet these targets, a big problem for Jaguar and Land Rover since by 2017, they are expected to be churning out 700,000 vehicles.

Even with a new compact sedan and possible crossover on the horizon, that might not be enough for Jaguar to meet those standards. Enter the small, front-wheel drive vehicle which could help the company get to those standards.

Jaguar has a couple options available. The company could develop a new compact architecture for a line of compact vehicles, but it could prohibitively expensive. Jaguar has also been taking a look at using the architecture from the Range Rover Evoque.

Source: Autocar

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Rumorpile: Jaguar Plans To Launch Entry Level Models

Tue, 23 Jul 2013 15:15:00 +0000

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

July 23, 2013

We've been hearing for a time that Jaguar is planning to launch a new compact luxury sedan sedan and crossover. Now a new report from Reuters says those two vehicles are going to be part of a new entry-level lineup coming in 2015.

Sources tell Reuters that with the recent successes of the Range Rover Evoque and Land Rover Freelander (LR2 as we know it), Jaguar would like to emulate it.

"It's a logical idea to use the momentum from Land Rover and expand the Jaguar range. Jaguar is less than half the size of Land Rover so they need to do something, plus investors will like a move downscale," said IHS Automotive research director Christoph Stürmer.

Source: Reuters

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Rumorpile: Jaguar Begins Work On A SUV

Fri, 12 Jul 2013 13:35:00 +0000

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

July 12, 2013

A new report from Auto Express says the long rumored Jaguar SUV is apparently in the advanced design stages. Sources tell the magazine the SUV's design will blend lines of a Jaguar sedan and a high-riding SUV. The SUV will inlcude such design cues as asteeply raked front and rear windshield, short overhangs, and a blacked-out C-pillar.

Power will come from two different four-cylinders (2.0L turbocharged and a 2.2 turbodiesel) and a 3.0L supercharged V6. A ZF eight-speed automatic will send the power to either the rear or all four wheels.

The new SUV will use a shortened version of the XJ’s all-aluminum platform to keep weight and costs down.

The new SUV, likely wearing the XQ nameplate will go on sale in 2015.

Source: Auto Express

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Rumorpile: Jaguar F-Type Coupe To Come Available With 700 Horsepower

Sun, 23 Jun 2013 19:45:00 +0000

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

June 23, 2013

File this under the highly speculative folder. This past week Auto Express reported that Jaguar is planning to do R-S version of their new F-Type. The F-Type R-S is expected to come in a coupe form initially and pack a 700 horsepower engine that can make the F-Type R-S reach a top speed of over 200 MPH.

Here's where's it goes of the rails somewhat. Auto Express says one way Jaguar could achieve this is use some of the technology from the canned C-X75 hybrid supercar; a 1.6L turbo- and supercharged four-cylinder engine and an array of electric motors.

Auto Express says the F-Type R-S will arrive in 2016.

Source: Auto Express

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Rumorpile: Two Bodystyles For The Next Jaguar XJ

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 15:45:00 +0000

By William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

April 24, 2013

Edmunds reports that next-generation Jaguar XJ flagship will come in two different bodystyles; the sleek, fastback shape that current model sports and a new bodystyle that uses the traditional three-box sedan design.

Why two bodystyles? Different tastes in Jaguar’s key markets. China, which is becoming the XJ’s largest market isn’t too keen on the current design and wants something a bit old school.

There was also rumors of strong dissent in certain groups at Jaguar if the next XJ went back to its old ways. The decision to go with two bodystyles seems to help smooth this over.

Source: Edmunds

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Jaguar: Compact Luxury Is The Top Priority

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 16:45:00 +0000

By William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

January 23, 2013

The last time Jaguar did a small, entry-level luxury car, lets just say it wasn't great. Jaguar though is giving it another try. Jaguar global brand director Adrian Hallmark told Automotive News that the brand is hard at work on a new compact model.

"We have to get back into that segment. I won't say whether it's with a sedan or another body style or more than one car," Hallmark said.

The new models would be priced between $40,000 and $50,000. Jaguar is in the early stages of planning and which models/bodystyles are being considered.

One direction that Jaguar could head is doing a successor to the much maligned X-Type. Rumor has it that the model could use a shrunken version of Jaguar and Land Rover’s Premium Lightweight Architecture.

The other rumor flying around is a small Jaguar crossover. Hallmark said if Jaguar was to go down this road, the model would share a platform with Land Rover, but focus more with on-road performance.

"If we were to enter a crossover segment, then it would be more road-oriented rather than off-road. It would not be cut-and-paste. It would be using that core global competence," Hallmark said.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Jaguar XK Could Move In Direction, Size

Mon, 31 Dec 2012 14:30:00 +0000

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

December 31, 2012

The Jaguar XK has had to fill two roles in the Jaguar lineup; a sports car and a grand tourer. But with the introduction of the new F-Type taking the role of the sports car, the XK could be heading in another direction.

Speaking with Autocar, Jaguar's design director Ian Callum said that the company was “going through a lot of discussion” about where to take the XK in the future.

“It could grow into the luxury market, and grow in size. Whether it stays the same as a two-plus-two or becomes a two-plus-more-than-two has not been committed to yet,” said Callum.

Source: Autocar

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Jaguar Takes An Ax To The C-X75

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 15:30:00 +0000

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

December 12, 2012

The Jaguar C-X75 was a unique concept when shown at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, using four electric motors mounted in the wheels and a battery pack to power. Once the batteries were depleted, a pair of gas turbines would take over.

Jaguar announced the C-X75 would head into production last year, albeit with some changes. The gas tubines would be dropped for a 1.6L turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder and two electric motors mounted at either end of the vehicle. Combined power output was expected to be 888 HP and 590 lb-ft of torque. 0-60 MPH time was expected to be 2.8 seconds and a top speed in excess of 200 MPH.

Now Jaguar has announced with heavy heart that the C-X75 has been cancelled due to the current global economic crisis.

"We feel we could make the car work, but looking at the global austerity measures in place now, it seems the wrong time to launch an £800,000 to £1 million supercar. This is backed up by other products from us that people are screaming out for," said Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar's Global brand director.

Hallmark says the investments made into the C-X75 will not go waste. 60% of the weight-saving and hybrid tech will be incorporated into future models. Also the five prototypes that Jaguar has been working will be finished up. Two of them will go up for auction while the rest will go to Jaguar's museum.

Source: Autocar

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Jaguar Says Future Models Will Get An AWD Option

Sun, 02 Dec 2012 16:45:00 +0000

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

December 2, 2012

Jaguar's global brand director Adrian Hallmark said something very interesting at the launch of the XF and XJ all-wheel drive models.

"I can't think of any model that wouldn't benefit from not having the option of it."

There's one problem with that at the moment. Jaguar's current models weren't engineered to have a AWD system installed. The only reason Jaguar put one into the XF and XJ with the new supercharged V6 was that they could see a return on their investment when the two vehicles go sale in the U.S. and Canada.

No other Jaguar engine will be mated to the all-wheel drive system for now. In future models though, that could change.

"At the moment, we can't take the full grid of engines, models and drivetrains and tick every box and offer them all. We have to prioritise. In the future, we know what it takes to get all-wheel drive," said Hallmark.

Source: Autocar

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Jaguar, Land Rover Looking To Slash A Number Of Platforms

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 16:45:00 +0000

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

November 20, 2012

Here’s a question for you: How many platforms do Jaguar and Land Rover have? The answer is seven. Yes, seven platforms. They go as followed,

Jaguar XF
Jaguar XJ
Jaguar XK/F-Type
Land Rover Defender
Land Rover Freelander (LR2)/Range Rover Evoque
Land Rover Discovery (LR4)/Range Rover Sport
Range Rover

So in a not surprising move, Jaguar and Land Rover is looking at cutting down their platforms from seven down to two to three as a way to save money.

Autocar reports that Jaguar-Land Rover is looking towards Volkswagen MQB platform as a case study to how do something like this.

“It won’t happen overnight. (Something like) VW’s MQB platform will take seven years to roll out across the models it will underpin,” said Jaguar’s global brand director, Adrian Hallmark.

Source: Autocar

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Leaked: Is This The New Jaguar F-Type?

Wed, 19 Sep 2012 20:45:00 +0000

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

September 19, 2012

Auto show season is upon us and it means two things; new cars and leaks.

Case in point, a picture of the new Jaguar F-Type roadster was leaked earlier this afternoon by spy photographer and friend of C&G, Chris Doane.

"Something interesting just popped up in my inbox..." Doane wrote as the caption on the picture on his Facebook fan page.

The new F-Type looks to be almost a dead ringer for the C-X16 coupe concept shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show last year, minus the roof. Powertrains will include two supercharged V6s and a possibility of a 5.0L supercharged V8.

We'll learn more info about the F-Type when it premieres at the Paris Motor Show next week or before then.

(Author's note: Chris has since taken down the picture by request of Jaguar. -WM)

Source: Chris Doane Automotive LLC, Motor Authority

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Jaguar Looks At Changing Direction Of Next XJ, Going Upmarket

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 17:45:00 +0000

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

September 17, 2012

Jaguar is in the midst of changes. Both with one of their models and the possibility of moving more upmarket.

Inside Line reports that Jaguar is debating where to take the next-generation XJ. One side, headed by CEO Ralf Speth wants to take the next-generation XJ and design it much closer to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The other side wants to see Jaguar stick with the distinctive styling theme of the current model.

Why the design change-up? Sales in key markets for the XJ have been dropping. In the U.S. alone, sales are about half when compared to the S-Class and BMW 7-Series. Though we're wondering if the sales drop is due to the design or other reasons, like not offering AWD or some other powertrain choice than a V8.

Source: Inside Line

Next: Going Upmarket

Jaguar has been impressed by the sales of the XKR-S coupe and roadster, and the XJ Ultimate that the brand is looking at doing more upmarket models.

“It’s clear from our research that Jaguar has a strong enough brand name to participate in more of this sort of business. We’ve proven that we can build £100,000-plus cars that sell, and these projects are one way of pushing the brand further upmarket,” said global brand director Adrian Hallmark.

Hallmark didn't go into specifics, but it would be safe to assume a high-performance variant of the XFR is in the cards.

Source: Autocar

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Jaguar Announces 4- and 6-Cylinder Engines, AWD For XF and XJ

Fri, 17 Aug 2012 00:45:00 +0000

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

August 16, 2012

Last month, we reported on Jaguar's move to a turbocharged-four and supercharged V6 engines for the XF and XJ models. Today, Jaguar officially announced the new engines and a AWD option for the XF and XJ.

Starting off with the XF, the 2013 base model will have a 2.0L turbocharged-four from the Range Rover Evoque. The 2.0L is rated at 240 HP and 251 lb-ft of torque. Next up will be the 3.0L supercharged V6 which will take the place of the 5.0L naturally-aspirated V8 engine. The supercharged 3.0L is rated at 340 HP. The supercharged 5.0L V8 stays on.

Next is the XJ which also gets the 3.0L Supercharged V6 in the XJ and long-wheelbase XJL. The 5.0L NA V8 will stay on the long wheelbase XJL Portfolio model.

Both engines will come with a eight-speed automatic from ZF. AWD will also be an option on the XF and XJ, but only if you order the 3.0L Supercharged V6. Also available as an option is a stop-start system.

Source: Jaguar

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Jaguar, Land Rover NA CEO Wants Dealers To Merge

Tue, 17 Jul 2012 16:00:00 +0000

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

July 17, 2012

Jaguar Land Rover North America's CEO, Andy Goss is calling for individual Jaguar and Land Rover dealers to merge together.

“We want to cut the number of rooftops to about 200. At 200, the majority of dealerships would be Jaguar Land Rover,” Goss said.

Goss hopes that merger of individual Jaguar and Land Rover dealers will improve overall sales.

“Forty-five percent of people who own a Jaguar also own an SUV. It is the same customer base. It would be foolish not to try and get those customers,” said Goss.

At the moment, there are about 97 stand alone Jaguar or Land Rover dealerships in the U.S.. Goss wants to see half of them merge. The company is focusing this plan in seven markets: Chicago, San Francisco, Denver, Los Angeles, New Jersey, New York state and Portland, Ore.

The company isn't forcing dealers to buy or sell, but its not offering any incentives for them to merge. Goss is hoping the prospect of better sales will convince them.

Source: Auto Guide

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Jaguar Readies Four, Six-Cylinder Engines For U.S.

Mon, 16 Jul 2012 15:45:00 +0000

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

July 16, 2012

If you wanted something besides a V8 in Jaguar in the U.S., you would have to go Europe to go for a six-cylinder. This has caused sales of Jaguar vehicles to drop.

"We have only V8s in a market that has moved to six-cylinder," said Andy Goss, CEO of Jaguar Land Rover North America.

To stop the slide, Jaguar will introduce four and six-cylinder engines for the XF and XJ lines.

The four-cylinder is the 240 HP 2.0L turbo-four from the Range Rover Evoque and will be placed into the XF. The six-cylinder will be a 3.0L supercharged V6 producing either 340 HP (XF) and 380 HP (XJ). Both the four and six will come with an eight-speed automatic.

Goss says the V6 will be a game changer for Jaguar, since about 70% of the XF competitors come with a V6.

The turbo-four and supercharged V6 come out later this year.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Jaguar Introduces Two New Powertrains

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:30:00 +0000

William Maley

Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com

April 23, 2012

Jaguar is joining Audi, BMW, and other luxury automakers in offering smaller forced-induction engines. At the Beijing Motor Show today, Jaguar announced a new supercharged V6 and a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

The supercharged V6 is a 3.0L producing either 340 or 380 HP, depending on the configuration. The all-aluminum V6 is derived from Jaguar's 5.0L V8 and features quad cams, direct injection and a Roots-type twin vortex supercharger with a water-cooled intercooler.

Jaguar says in their press release the 380 HP version will lie under the hood of a high-output variant of their new F-Type roadster when it next year.

As for the turbocharged four-cylinder engine, that will be the 2.0L 240 HP engine from the Range Rover Evoque. Jaguar isn't saying what vehicles will get the 2.0L turbo at the moment.

Press Release is on Page 2

JAGUAR ANNOUNCES FUTURE POWERTRAINS

AT-A-GLANCE

Jaguar will bring to market globally two new forced-induction engines; a Supercharged 3.0L V6, and a Turbocharged 2.0L in-line four cylinder
These engines will be offered as choices on a number of Jaguar models in the future
The Supercharged 3.0L V6 draws on key technology used in the Jaguar 5-liter V8. This engine will be available in two states of tune: 380hp and 340hp
The Turbocharged 2.0L I-4 produces 240hp
The 380hp version of the Supercharged 3.0L V6 will be exclusively offered as one of the powerplants in the forthcoming Jaguar F-TYPE roadster
Both engines will deliver their power through eight-speed automatic transmissions
The V6 will be available with Jaguar’s Intelligent Stop-Start system

Introduction

As Jaguar expands its product offerings in key global markets, it is introducing two additional engines; a new Supercharged 3.0-liter V6, and a Turbocharged 2.0-liter I4, which will be offered as choices on a number of models.

The first announced utilization of the 380hp Supercharged 3.0L V6 will be the all-new Jaguar F-TYPE two seat roadster, coming in 2013. The Jaguar F-TYPE will focus uncompromisingly on delivering a rewarding drive experience

Adrian Hallmark, Global Brand Director, Jaguar Cars, said, "Jaguar currently has its strongest range of products for several decades. Our continued growth is dependent on two things; activating the awareness of the brand, and expanding our range to enable us to access new customers in both existing and emerging markets. The introduction of these two additional forced-induction engines is integral to this ambitious plan."

The new V6 engine has been developed by Jaguar from its existing 5-liter V8. This all aluminum alloy engine has received accolades from around the world in applications from luxury sedans to 186MPH convertibles. The V6 uses many key technologies from the V8 engine including direct injection, variable valve timing and aluminum construction. It will offer comparable levels of power and refinement to the naturally-aspirated version of the V8 engine, but with greater specific output and efficiency courtesy of supercharging.

The Turbocharged 2.0-liter I4 engine uses a range of technologies for power generation that belies its size. It produces 240hp thanks to the use of three key innovations; low-inertia turbocharging, direct fuel-injection and variable timing of both the intake and exhaust camshafts.

Ron Lee, Group Chief Engineer Powertrain, Jaguar Cars, said: "Both these new engines make intelligent use of forced-induction technology to produce high-specific output in an efficient way, while delivering the compelling combination of flexibility, refinement and driver reward that are integral attributes in all Jaguar engines."

Both engines will be mated to a new eight-speed automatic gearbox which offers a broad spread of ratios for an optimally balanced combination of performance, economy, and driver control. The 3.0 V6 S/C will also be available with Jaguar's Intelligent Stop-Start system.

Details: Supercharged 3.0-liter V6

This new engine finds it's bloodline from the current Jaguar V8 engine. The all-aluminum architecture of the V8 forms the basis of Jaguar’s new supercharged V6. The engine will be presented in two states of tune depending on its application; the 380hp version and a 340hp version.

The new quad-cam V6 shares its all-aluminum construction with the V8, with the lightweight die-cast block supplemented with cross-bolted main bearing caps to increase rigidity and therefore refinement.

The valves themselves are subject to control by a dual independent variable cam timing (DIVCT) system which is activated by the positive and negative torques generated by the movement of the intake and exhaust valves. This variable timing system features actuation rates of more than 150 degrees per second throughout the rev range, to optimize power, torque and economy at all engine speeds.

This responsive and uninterrupted power delivery is made possible through the use of spray-guided direct injection (SGDI) which delivers precisely measured quantities of fuel directly into the center of the combustion chambers at pressures of up to 300 bar (2,176 PSI). The fuel is delivered several times during each combustion cycle, creating a more homogenous air-fuel mixture for cleaner and more efficient combustion.

To maximize combustion efficiency, these spark plugs are precisely oriented both in relation to the injector and within the combustion chamber. The compression ratio is also raised from 9.5:1 in the supercharged V8 to 10.5:1 in the supercharged V6, further improving fuel economy and reducing emissions.

Mounted in the ‘V’ of the engine is latest-generation Roots-type twin vortex supercharger, which is the key to achieving high-specific output and efficiency. A water-cooled intercooler reduces the temperature of the intake air to optimize power and efficiency. The supercharger boost control is electronically managed by new Bosch engine management software. The engine features a system of counter-rotating front and rear balancer weights which lend it the same smoothness and refinement characteristics as its larger V8 brother.

The V6 powertrain will be completed by a Jaguar-tuned ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. This transmission's large spread of ratios allows the engine’s prodigious power to be fully exploited while optimizing economy and emissions.

Efficiency is also boosted by an Intelligent Stop-Start system which improves fuel consumption by up to seven per cent in European Test Cycle.* Utilizing a twin solenoid starter, the system is able to restart the engine in less time than it takes for the driver’s foot to move from the brake to the accelerator. In engine stop-start 'change of mind' scenarios, it is able to reenergize the engine via rapidly reintroducing fuel into the cylinders.

Details: Turbocharged 2.0-liter I4

The introduction of the Turbocharged I4 to the Jaguar range brings greatly improved efficiency* with competitive power outputs. This new engine will be used in a longitudinal configuration and mated to the new ZF eight-speed automatic transmission that will be used on the V6. Again, this transmission's large spread of ratios maximizes both performance and efficiency. Producing 240hp at 5,500 rpm, this engine offers a highly flexible powerband.

With a weight of only 304 lbs (138kg), courtesy of compact dimensions and all-aluminum construction, it is the lightest engine ever fitted into a production Jaguar. This low mass improves dynamic agility while bringing further emissions and economy benefits.

The engine uses of a low-inertia turbocharger that enables it to produce its high-specific power and torque outputs. The turbocharger is fed via a lightweight thin-walled exhaust manifold which offers a shorter engine warm-up period and faster catalyst light-off. Chain-driven cams operate with variable timing on both the intake and exhaust valves to maximize the broad spread of torque.

The engine features specialized coatings on the piston rings and tappets in order to reduce unwanted internal friction. Efficiency and power gains are also realized using direct injection technology. Fuel is injected in precisely measured doses several times during each combustion cycle to ensure the most efficient possible burn with the maximum benefit in terms of power generation while maintaining the lowest possible fuel consumption and emissions.

Significant steps have been taken to ensure expected levels of smoothness and sophistication refinement including twin balancer shafts, active engine mounts, an acoustic engine cover, and the use of additional sound insulation.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS**

340hp Supercharged 3.0-liter V6

Engine type: V6, supercharged

Capacity (cc): 2,995

Bore/stroke (mm): 84.5/89

Peak power (HP@rpm): 340@6,500

380hp Supercharged 3.0-liter V6

Engine type: V6, supercharged

Capacity (cc): 2,995

Bore/stroke (mm): 84.5/89

Peak power (HP@rpm): 380@6,500

240hp Turbocharged 2.0-liter I4

Engine type: four-cylinder, in-line, turbocharged

Capacity (cc): 1999

Bore/stroke (mm): 87.5/83.1

Peak power (HP@rpm): 240@5500

*All figures estimated. EPA estimated ratings pending.

**Manufacturer's estimates. All figures correct at time of going to press. Figures will not be final at time of printing– they will be "target figures" subject to final confirmation.

Editor's notes

The 3.0 V6 S/C and 2.0 Turbocharged I4 will join Jaguar's existing 5.0 liter V8 engines
Full emissions and fuel economy data will follow upon final testing and certification

Geneva 2012: Jaguar Adds A Sportbrake To The XF

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 16:00:00 +0000

William Maley

Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com

March 5, 2012

A few days after a some brochure images leaked onto the web, Jaguar decided to pull the veil back and show their new XF Sportbrake before this week's Geneva Motor Show.

Based on the XF Sedan, the Sportbrake offers a longer roof and extra space. The space in the Sportbrake totals 19 cubic feet of with the rear seats up, or 59 cubic feet with the rear seats down. To compare, a Mercedes-Benz E-Class wagon has 20.5 cubic feet of with the rear seats up and 57.4 cubic feet with the rear seats down. Also, backseat headroom in the Sportbrake increases by 1.9 inches.

Jaguar says the Sportbrake retains the same rigidity as the sedan and is 154 pounds heavier.

Engines will be a 2.4L four-cylinder and 3.0L six-cylinder diesel engines mated to a eight speed automatic.

Jaguar isn't saying if any of its gasoline engines will lie under the hood of Sportbrake or if its coming to the U.S. (doubting it).

Press Release is on Page 2

THE NEW JAGUAR XF SPORTBRAKE

- First images of the new XF Sportbrake unveiled ahead of the Geneva Motor Show

- New variant based on the XF platform – maximum load volume of 1,675-litres

- Small increase in weight and footprint and a chassis structure that equals the rigidity of the saloon means the handling characteristics of the conventional XF are retained

- UK sales to commence later this year

The new Jaguar XF Sportbrake has been unveiled ahead of its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show and promises to be the most versatile Jaguar ever created.

Sharing its underpinnings with the XF saloon, the Sportbrake's overall length grows by just 5mm, its weight by less 70kg and its chassis structure matches the strength of the conventional XF. These characteristics mean the Sportbrake can closely match the acclaimed handling of the XF saloon yet offers a large and highly practical load space.

Every panel on the XF Sportbrake, from the B-Pillar rearwards, is new. The strong silver signature line running the length of the car is extended while the C-Pillar is finished in gloss black, a trait shared with the XJ saloon. Slim rear light units extend into a strong chrome crossmember that dominates the rear of the car. The result is a car that blends style and function with the rear seat occupants benefitting from 48mm of extra rear headroom.

The large, practical tailgate can be specified with power struts, opening to reveal a wide and highly versatile load space. Measuring 550-litres with the rear seats up, the boot is framed by a set of useful cubby compartments. With the seats folded, the total volume grows to 1,675-litres.

Practical touches are prevalent – and standard equipment – on the XF Sportbrake. Remote fold levers are mounted within the boot area to lower the rear seats – negating the need to stretch into the boot. Powerful LEDs throw a pool of light onto the ground when the boot is open while the tailgate itself features a soft close function, avoiding any requirement for it to be slammed. Set into the boot floor is a panel that splits into three sections to allow smaller loads to be neatly wedged and avoiding a precious or fragile cargo being thrown about. A tray mounted under the boot floor helps protect valuable items.

Beneath the car there are extensive changes to the rear suspension. Self-levelling air suspension aids driving dynamics and means the Sportbrake can serve as an accomplished tow vehicle.

Powering the XF Sportbrake will be a range of efficient yet powerful diesel engines in 2.2-litre four cylinder and 3.0-litre six-cylinder form, each directing drive through the rear wheels via an advanced eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Prices and specifications will be announced nearer the time of the launch of the Sportbrake, set to take place in the third quarter of 2012.

Leaked: Jaguar XF Sportbrake

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 19:00:00 +0000

William Maley

Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com

February 27, 2012

The magic of internet has brought forth some leaked shots of Jaguar's new XF Sportbrake (wagon).

The shots from a brochure show the Sportbrake sharing a family resemblance to the XF sedan from the front end to the B-pillar. After that, its all new sheetmetal.

The pictures also show the XF's large cargo space and folding seats.

Engines for the Sportbrake are likely to be the same as the sedan; a 2.2L four-cylinder and two 3.0L V6 diesel engines and a N/A 5.0L V8.

The XF Sportbrake will debut at Geneva next month.

Source: Autocar

A Limited Number Of Jaguar C-X75s Will Get Turbine Power

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 14:00:00 +0000

William Maley

Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com

February 13, 2012

Back at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, Jaguar rolled out a magnificent supercar concept called the C-X75. Carrying design cues from the early 90’s XJ220, the C-X75 had a trick up its sleeve. The powertrain was a range-extended electric vehicle using two 95 HP micro gas turbines to recharge the lithium-ion battery packs, which in turn would power the four electric motors mounted in each wheel. Many wondered if Jaguar was to produce the C-X75 if the powertrain would be retained.

Last year, Jaguar announced the C-X75 would go into production, minus the turbines. Jaguar said to bring the C-X75 within a reasonable timeframe, they would instead go towards hybrid powertrain with a turbocharged four-cylinder. The powertrain would be worked on by Jaguar and Williams F1.

Now, Jaguar is saying a small number of the C-X75s being built will come with the turbine powertrain. The turbines will come from Bladon Jets Engineering Centre in Coventry, which is based very close to Jaguar’s headquarters and is partially owned by parent company Tata.

Source: Auto Express

Rumorpile: Jaguar To Offer Hotter XF?

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:50:00 +0000

William Maley

Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com

February 3, 2012

Jaguar could be planning a hotter version of the XFR sedan. Sources tell Autocar that the current XFR with its 510 HP supercharged V8 is “a bit outgunned” by the new BMW M5 and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, and Jaguar plans to build a faster model that will carry XFR-S badge.

The R-S badge, seen on the XKR-S means tweaks to chassis, engine, and more aggressive look. The supercharged V8 could see its horsepower raised to 550. Also, the pricetag will go up as well, somewhere in the $90,000 range.

Source: Autocar

Spying : Jaguar XF Sportbrake

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 13:25:00 +0000

For the past year, rumors have been flying around Coventry about Jaguar building a XF wagon to compete with Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. Now spy shots of Jaguar XF wagon have come out.

Seen testing around Jaguar HQ’s in Coventry, the wagon is a little bit longer than the XF sedan. The wagon or Sportbrake as it said on the camoflage will have a more unique rear end thanks to a new c-pillar and new taillight setup.

Engines will mirror the XF sedan with a 2.2L four-cylinder diesel, along with V6 and V8 engines.

The XF Sportbrake will go on sale in late 2012.

Source: Auto Express

Jaguar Adding AWD & New Powertrains For US

Sat, 26 Nov 2011 15:09:00 +0000

Jaguar is looking to increase the number of vehicles they sell in the US. To accomplish this, the company will introduce AWD and introduce a new range of engines.

Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar’s Global Brand Director said the brand is struggling to compete with automakers that offer AWD; especially in the snow belt, where 70% of XF’s class are equipped with AWD. Hallmark says the company has prototypes testing, and he says are discussions to find a solution.

Jaguar is also working on a new range of powertrains.

"We are seen as a V8 brand in the U.S., but the U.S. is downsizing and we need to respond. Within the next two years we will have new engines, V6s and smaller," said Hallmark.

Also in the cards are four-cylinder turbo engines and possibly diesels for the US market. Jaguar is also looking at hybrid powertrains, but Hallmark says this is not a key priority.

"They are a very expensive solution and customers are not willing to pay for it."

For now Jaguar will use hybrids as a way to improve performance.

Source: Inside Line

Jaguar’s Design Chief Wants A Mini Rival

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 11:30:00 +0000

Ian Callum, Jaguar’s design boss told What Car? this week that he would like to see the brand produce a small car.

“It's a personal view, but there's room for a premium small car. It would be a high-end small car for city use.”

Callum said the vehicle wouldn’t be a cheap Jaguar, just scaled-down.

“The big challenges would be economic and creating a business case for it, along with making a small car feel like a Jaguar and having the right levels of refinement and luxury.”

When asked what shape the car could take, Callum said it “would have to break the mould and be a car that people just want.”

All we ask is this: Please, no Jaguar Cygnet.

Source: What Car?

All Jaguar XKR-S Convertibles Have Been Spoken For

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 11:00:00 +0000

Introduced only on Tuesday at the LA Auto Show, the stockpile of Jaguar XKR-S Convertible for the US have been spoken for.

Only 25 of the XKR-S convertibles were sent to the US and all have been sold. Jaguar hasn't publicly commented on about who bought one, all of whom paid a $6,000 premium over the XKR-S coupe.

Source: Left Lane News

Rumorpile: Jaguar Returning To FWD?

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 21:40:00 +0000

The last time Jaguar did a front wheel drive car, the result was the X-Type sedan and wagon which became one of the least reliable vehicles on the road. Well, Jaguar is giving front wheel a second chance.

According to Autocar, Jaguar is working on a new front wheel drive model for the Chinese, Indian, and US markets. The reason for the FWD plans is due to new CAFE regulations coming down in 2016. The FWD Jaguar would help the automaker meet the 35.5 MPG requirement.

The model would be powered by a new three-cylinder and a range of four-cylinder engines going through eight and nine-speed automatic transmissions. Also, the model will most likely use aluminum throughout the frame and body panels, keeping it’s weight down.

The small Jaguar will be joining a growing group of premium compact-cars which include the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class and Audi A3 sedan.

The new Jaguar is expected to come out sometime in 2015.

Source: Autocar