Jaguar’s long-awaited D-segment offering is still some way off, but two of the firm’s top executives have outlined just what such a model will entail.
According the Jaguar global brand director, Adrian Hallmark, the firm requires both a compact sportscar to complement its image, as well as a volume-selling compact saloon to compete in the fiercely contested D-segment where the likes of the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4 hold sway. The main consideration, according to Hallmark, is playing in a lower price band than that currently occupied by the firm.
A broader D-segment offering:
Hallmark claims that both models are a priority and could see the compact saloon model’s platform (a modified version of the PLA [Premium Lightweight Architecture] rear-wheel drive platform underpinning the next-generation XF and XJ models) form the foundations of coupé, cabriolet and estate spinoffs. “You have to be flexible in that segment”, states Hallmark.
While Jaguar’s current blend of luxury and involving dynamics could potentially see the BMW 3 Series constituting a potential benchmark, Hallmark claims this is not necessarily the case. “The 3 Series is an easy simile for where we could go, but it’s not the only gig in town,” Hallmark says. “All the cars are good in that segment. All have the blend of performance and efficiency, as well as very sophisticated equipment.”
According to Hallmark, Jaguar is being realistic about its initial chances, noting that Audi took at least 20 years to get where it is in the premium D-segment. At present, Jaguar is undertaking “creative analysis” of both its rivals and future customer base so as to effectively carve its own niche within the segment.
Jaguar values to remain:
Jaguar’s design chief, Ian Callum, echoes Hallmark’s sentiment, stating, “Jaguars have a rational, pragmatic set of values. They are styled a bit differently but need to be conventional enough to be usable…A Jaguar needs to work as a Jaguar, with a set of components to match our mould.”
With regards to possible cues from its rivals, Callum claims that it would be easy to utilise the Mercedes-Benz CLA’s four-door coupé formula as something that Jaguar would like to see, but that’s not what the firm would necessarily do.
“I think Jaguar has to do something different. The challenge is to do this across a whole range of vehicles”, Callum said.
Lightweight, RWD:
The Baby Jaguar will be underpinned by the company’s PLA platform and, according to Callum, could likely utilise an aluminium construction. The platform will potentially form the foundations of a rear-wheel drive model, while a front-wheel drive option (in the interests of cost-effectiveness) is also being tabled.
Although Jaguar is reluctant to give a projected launch date, it’s believed that the project is close to getting the green light from the board.
Jaguar will be hoping that the new models will not emulate the company’s last foray into the D-segment; the ill-received X-Type.
