The next piece in Jaguar’s SUV strategy has been spotted in the UK.
The E-Pace crossover that will span the line-up between the larger Jaguar F-Pace high-rider and the production version of the Jaguar I-Pace Concept all-electric SUV coupe.
With F-Pace sales outstripping other Jaguar models, big things are expected of the smaller and more affordable E-Pace when it hits showrooms around this time next year.
While the heavy camouflage conceals finer details such as the expectedly charming front fascia, the gracious roof line, which will be a signature of Jaguar’s crossovers, is evident as are stylish curves below the window line.
The short bonnet visually connects the E-Pace to the I-Pace, though that will be where most of the similarities end.
Despite the name, the E-Pace won’t be an electric vehicle, with the E representing its lineage to the Jaguar XE sedan in the same way the F-Pace is related to the Jaguar XF.
The I-Pace will ride on all-new architecture while the E-Pace is expected share underpinnings with the Land Rover Discovery Sport, which sits on a modified version of the Range Rover Evoque’s platform.
It will also share engines with its Land Rover cousins, including turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, which are horizontally mounted with an all-wheel-drive powertrain with a front-drive bias.
The lack of running gear to the back wheels will be good for interior space, which is an issue with the rear-wheel-drive F-Pace.
A hybrid version of the E-Pace is expected to follow later in its model life.
The E-Pace is expected to launch by the end of the year, with the I-Pace to follow some time in 2018.
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