German Car Zone

New details have emerged about Jaguar's long-rumored entry-level XE roadster.

According to AutoCar, the roadster will likely adopt the rectangular grille used on the XF and XJ sedans. While a modified version of the E-type grille was expected, designers couldn't get the retro grille to mesh with the styling direction of the new XK and XE.

Insiders are also reporting there is an internal debate as what size the new XK should be. One faction wants the XK to be larger, so it can properly challenge the Maserati GranTurismo as a legitimate four-seater.

While this would add greater price and size distinctions between the XK and XE, some believe the XK should remain faithful to its current form.
Regardless, both models are expected to ride on an updated version of the XK's aluminum chassis.

Source: Autocar via: worldcarfans

Looks interesting to me - very modern, futuristic, elegant and sporty…

Nice, but for some reason I'm more interested in seeing a entry level jag worthy of taking on the C-class and 3 series along with a Crossover and mid to fullsize SUV.

Yeah, the X-Type definitely needs a replacement.

Exactly! Especially since Jaguar has proven to be capable with the current XF/XF-R. It might even bring more sales in for Jaguar as well.

Somehow I doubt Jaguar will enter the compact executive car class anytime soon. The battle in that class is already fierce even without Jag. And the profits won't be nearly as high as in upper segments. Even if the product was much better than X-Type and a worthy competitor to 3er/A4/C-Class, it's still possible it wouldn't sell as good as those cars. With the wounds from X-Type saga still not completely healed, that's a risk they might not want to take.
Mind that the XF doesn't compete with small-engined E-Class, 5er and A6 models (eg. E 220 CDI, 520i/520d & A6 2.0 TFSI/2.0 TDI) even though those are very big sellers in Europe. So clearly Jaguar isn't aiming for the highest sales numbers in its class.

In any case, for now I believe they have chosen to focus on bigger sedans, GT coupes & cabrios and perhaps add a roadster to that in the near future.

^Thank you for destroying our hopes and dreams!

I agree and that is where Jaguar should stay unless they can re-enter the lower segment in the right way. That being a new dedicated RWD platform suitable for both a small roadster, sedan and coupe. That type of investment doesn't appear to be feasible anytime soon.


M