Rumors about a possible Jaguar flagship SUV first
emerged a couple of years ago, and if the latest report is correct, it’s
expected in 2021, probably as a BMW X6, Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, Audi Q8 and
Porsche Cayenne Coupe rival.
Unofficially named the J-Pace, it’s believed to be
based on JLR’s MLA platform and could get a plug-in hybrid powertrain, says
Autocar, with a turbo-six petrol engine powering the front wheels and an
electric motor used for the rear axle. In the EV driving mode, it should cover
at least 80 km.
Jaguar might also launch a more affordable version
of the rumored flagship SUV, with a four-cylinder engine, and if there is
enough demand, then they could green light an all-electric variant as well. Eliminating the traditional
mechanical connection to the rear wheels will allow for a cleverer packaging
for the battery pack. It will also improve space inside, as there won’t be a
transmission tunnel. However, rear headroom will be affected by the rumored
sloping roofline, unlike the next-gen Range Rover, which will utilize the same
architecture.
Size wise, the J-Pace, which will sit above the
E-Pace and F-Pace, is said to be roughly 4.9 meters long and should
enjoy at least 650 liters of boot space, or about the same as the
Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe. Inside, it’s thought to use OLED screens, like the
facelifted XE.
