The Jaguar C-X16 is a modern, innovative hybrid concept sports car, but it has much earlier roots than 2011. It hearkens back to 1961, when Jaguar introduced the E-type, wowing the automotive world with its affordability, speed, and an exquisite look. The C-X16 evokes the same feelings with its combination of features, modernized for today’s Jaguar.
A forced-induction petrol V6 powers its sleek form, with an optional additional grunt via a centrally controlled mounted electric motor. Super-charged, the prototype engine is a DI 3.0 litre V6, paired with a quick-shift eight-speed ZF auto. It has a twin-vortex intercooled blower — a fully alloy unit that manages to produce 280kW/450Nm. The steering wheel’s ‘push-to-pass’ button compels the motor to add an extra 70kW/235Nm hybrid boost that speeds you up and lasts at least 10 seconds.
Inspired by Formula One’s Kinetic Energy Recharge System (KERS), its battery system is charged via brake energy regeneration. And, if you really want to pretend you’re on the Formula One racetrack, you can look at the dashboard graphic that informs you of when the system is all ready to go. The C-X16′s chassis and body are a result of Jaguar’s Advanced Aluminum Architecture, weighing 1600kg. To even out its performance capability — -zero to a hundred in 4.4 sec — is a combined 6.9L/100km fuel economy. Its stop/start system uses a twin-solenoid starter for instant operation, and on light throttle, it can run on 100 percent battery power at speeds of up to 80km/h.
As the C-X16 looks to the past for a combination of spectacular features, Jaguar also says that its design is the next evolution of the brand’s design philosophy. It’s a future full of fluid lines, muscular corners, and, for the C-X16, a bold vermillion red leather and suedecloth interior that spotlights the driver with a ‘Connect & View’ touch-screen MMI based on smart phones with the help of Blackberry’s collaboration. It’s all pretty unforgettable.
But don’t expect 1961 standards to completely follow into pricing — back then, an E-type was half the price of an Aston Martin. If it can be priced in the $150K area, however, it would be pitched at the upper end of Porsche’s Boxer and Cayman line-up — S $138K and S $153K respectively — and, with the kind of performance the C-X16 has, it’s enough to take a swing at the 911 Carrera. The supercharged version, at about $175K, still has enough space away from the Coupe XK at $219K. Buyers of cars such as the BMW M3 and Mercedez-Benz C63 might be drawn in by the Jaguar C-X16′s sleeker, two-seater seduction. A confirmed rumour says a roadster version will be joining the coupe as well, which would add an 8-10 percent price premium above the fixed-car roof.
Although technically still a ‘production concept’, it certainly seems close to being ready to hit the road. If the European to local launch is only slightly time-lagged because of immediate right-hand drive production, Australian roads could see the new C-X16 by the middle of 2013.
