Jaguar F-Type
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The Jaguar XE is a concept roadster based on the XK cabriolet convertible and should be in production by 2013.
The XE concept is a slightly smaller-scale version of the acclaimed XK cabriolet. The XE will be designed to compete with roadsters such as the 2011 Porsche Boxster, the 2009 BMW Z4, and the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class. Since Jaguar has added the AJ-V8 to the list of options on the XE, the XE will be able to compete with "Super Sedans" such as BMW's new M5, Cadillac's CTS-V, and Jaguar's own XFR. New reports also indicate that the XE will also feature a plug-in hybrid option in addition to its standard V6 power plant. As well as a plug-in option, Jaguar is also considering a smaller bio-diesel engine after the first year’s models roll off the production line.
Specifications
- Name: Jaguar XE Roadster
- Manufacturer: Jaguar Cars Ltd.
- Parent company: Tata Motors, India
- Engine(s): 3.0 Litre V6, 2.0-2.2 Litre V6 bio-diesel, plug-in electric batteries, Supercharged 5.0 Litre AJ-V8
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Performance
The XE comes with several engine options. The standard updated version of the AJ-V8 (also on Jaguar’s XK, XKR and XFR), and is the same 5.0 Litre, 510 hp monster that sent the XFR sedan into the record books when it hit 225 mph on January 25, 2009, a 3.0 Litre V6 or diesel V6, or a 2.0 or 2.2 Litre I-3 engine connected to a lithium-ion battery pack. Top speed with the AJ-V8 will be around 200 mph.
Design
The Jaguar XE is essentially a smaller version of the company’s famous XK roadster. The XE will maintain most visual aspects of the XK, and just like the XK will have its engine upgraded to the AJ-V8 as mentioned earlier. The XE will be a little less expensive than the XK, again with the V8 version at around $93,000, while the new XK will have its base price at around $97,000 for the coupe, and $102,000 for the cabriolet convertible.
Versions
The XE will come in three versions: hardtop convertible, soft-top convertible, and coupé.
When it rolls out, the plug-in version of the XE will set a Jaguar record as the company’s first hybrid-electric vehicle. The XE will also be Jaguar’s smallest car.
References
- Road & Track Magazine June, 2009 Issue
- Automobile Magazine June, 2009 Issue
- http://www.4wheelsnews.com/upcoming-jaguar-xe-roadster-to-feature-plug-in-hybrid-option/
Notes
- The XE's top speed range is an estimate of the top speed capabilities of all engine options including the three cylinder plug-in option.