As if adding a thrilling new sports car to the line-up isn’t keeping Jaguar’s stylists busy enough, the firm is also working hard to rejuvenate its entire range.

The most important model in the company’s extensive development plan is an all-new version of the S-Type, caught testing in this week’s mag. The next XK is also due on sale soon - but it seems the future of the X-Type is hanging in the balance.

The mag’s exclusive spy shots show the latest S-Type mule. As you can see, the marque is halfway though the development process - only the front half is disguised, as this is the sole part of the redesign that is complete. Because of the importance of cooling and aerodynamics, testing has to begin now to make sure the new shape of the nose is feasible for production.

It is also likely that Jaguar will fit its groundbreaking Pedestrian Deploy-able Bonnet System (PDBS) in order to comply with European frontal-impact legislation, as featured in Auto Express in issue 876. The system will be standard on the XK, and is expected to spread across the range.

Inside, Jaguar’s elegant cabin design will remain, but the general ergonomics and control layout will be improved. Buyers can also expect a rise in quality as the firm aims to dent the domination of sales chart-topping German rivals. Under the bonnet, the company’s cutting-edge V6 diesel unit will stay largely unchanged, while the petrol range is expected to get a power boost. Chassis improvements will also be in line with Jaguar’s sporting heritage, and it’s likely an air-suspension system similar to the XJ’s will be fitted to ensure a smooth cruising ride.

Looking further ahead, it’s possible that Jaguar will join the growing number of manufacturers turning to hybrid power in luxury vehicles. Mercedes already has an advanced system, while Lexus is set to launch petrol/electric versions of its GS and LS next year. Of course, at this stage official details of the next S-Type are still top secret, but this model is absolutely crucial to the firm’s future. Arch-rival BMW cites the 5-Series as one of its most profitable models, and the next-generation S-Type will be just as significant for Jaguar’s own balance sheets.

And it’s with finance in mind that bosses are taking a long, hard look at the X-Type. While the vehicle is the second best-selling car in its class, Auto Express has learned that its successor may not be a conventional compact executive saloon. Instead, Jaguar is exploring the possibility of a crossover variant which will appeal to buyers who are coming out of mainstream compact SUVs and looking for a more upmarket bonnet badge.

The first new model to arrive will be Jaguar’s fresh XK, which is set to go on sale here as both a coupé and cabriolet early in 2006. Next in line is the new S-Type, which is expected to debut later in the year. A decision on the future of the X-Type is anticipated to be made public in 2007.

(this article was taken from autoexpress.co.uk)

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