More Jaguar XE models planned

A family of Jaguar XE models will follow the launch of the saloon, including a high-performance BMW M3 rival, it has been confirmed.

Speaking at the XE's launch, Jaguar Land Rover's Global Operations Director Phil Popham told What Car?: 'The key is that the platform is flexible and the architecture is flexible; we will look at all the possibilities and make a judgement based on them.

'The key is that Jaguar is not a volume brand. Every car we launch must at least match the best in class, but always stand apart for its emotional appeal. Whatever we do will excite the senses when you drive it or even look at it.'

Popham conceded that a BMW M3 rival was under consideration, although its powerplant is not yet decided. However, the new Ingenium engine family is configurable for a high-powered petrol engine. 'Jaguar's heritage in performance cars makes a fast XE an interesting proposition. Watch this space,' said Popham.

However, Popham also underlined the increasing importance of driving down the running costs of Jaguars, particularly at the XE's lower price point.

'One of the key attributes we now measure is cost of ownership,' he said. 'The one message we get from all customers is that they want to spend less, from tax costs to fuel costs to servicing and other running costs. That will be a key factor wherever we go with XE.'

Further bodystyles are expected to join the range later as well, with Popham saying: 'Anything is possible.'