First Sketch: Jaguar C-X16 Concept

The Jaguar E-Type revival is finally on the cards. A few weeks ago we brought you spy shots of the new two-seater hidden beneath an XK body. And now, the British firm has revealed the first sketch of how the model will shape up.

Called the C-X16 concept, it will debut at next month’s Frankfurt Motor Show. And there’s no doubt the designers looked to Jaguar’s classic sports car for inspiration, as the large ‘pontoon’ wings and swept-back lights are both E-Type trademarks. The marque’s new design language – first seen on the C-X75 concept – also features in the narrow tail-lamps and flat spoiler. A large, trapezoidal grille is expected to replace the current XK’s stretched oval, too.

The newcomer has been under consideration since the XK180 and F-Type concepts debuted in 1998 and 2000 respectively; both fell by the wayside because of financial constraints. Jaguar hasn’t released any details on what will power the C-X16 or the final production model. However, a range of newly developed V6 engines is expected. These will produce between 275bhp in naturally aspirated form and as much as 375bhp in the supercharged R. Reports suggest diesel power could be under consideration, too.

Even though the sketch shows a coupe, the prototypes we’ve spied have all been convertibles – suggesting the soft-top will arrive first. It’s likely to go on sale early in 2013, with the hard-top following later that year.

When the car does reach production, it’s expected to be called the XE, and prices will fall somewhere between a Porsche Boxster and a 911 – meaning a starting point of around £45,000.

The model’s introduction will allow Jaguar to move the XK upmarket when it introduces the next generation in 2014. For more details click here.

Thanks to: Auto Express