It’s no secret that Jaguar is currently developing an entry-level sedan that will compete against the BMW 3-Series, as well as a crossover that will be based on the same architecture.
More details about Jaguar’s plans have emerged now, with two sources close to the company telling Reuters that the new models will be available in the second half of 2015. With the compact saloon and crossover SUV, Jaguar wants to emulate the success of sister company Land Rover, whose lower cost luxury vehicles such as the Freelander and Range Rover Evoque are selling well.
The new family of Jaguars will be built on production lines previously used by Land Rover and currently being modified at JLR’s plant in Solihull, England. The new cars are expected to have all-aluminum platforms, just like the range-topping Jaguar XJ.
According to the report, Land Rover will make an official announcement related to its new entry-level vehicles at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September. JLR said it would not comment its future product plans for the time being.
The new Jaguar compact saloon and crossover will allow the UK-based carmaker to compete against BMW and Mercedes-Benz who dominate the market for entry-level luxury vehicles. Tata Motors wants Jaguar to grow, as the carmaker barely made up 20 percent of JLR’s total sales last year. JLR announced earlier this year that it plans to invest £2.75 billion (€3.2 billion) each year for the next four years on new products and manufacturing facilities.
By Dan Mihalascu
Note: Jaguar XS test mule pictured below
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