It’s a double whammy for Jaguar, with the debut of a stunning new compact saloon concept hinting at a future design direction and a replacement for the X-Type.
The deep red machine has been created by famed Italian styling house Bertone – but only after being briefed by Jaguar’s creative chief Ian Callum and advanced design boss Julian Thomson.
The result is called the B99, a name which draws together Bertone and the years since the company was first launched.
The 4.5-metre long D-segment car features barn-style doors leading to a minimalist interior of soft premium leather and brushed aluminum. Apart from the driver’s four analogue dials and the centrally mounted pop-up gear selector, everything is hidden behind high-gloss African wood panelling.
The only element of the car taken from today’s Jaguar range is the grille of the XF, but even that has been angled forward to give a more aggressive stance. The lightweight aluminium body shell features sleek, unfussy styling above large seven-spoke alloys.
Drive will come from a hybrid powertrain developed by Bertone Energy, the company’s newest division, but there’s no word on performance figures yet.
The B99 will undoubtedly be one of the star attractions at next week’s Geneva Motor Show. What’s more, alongside it will be a full-spec GT2 race version!
Bertone has not been chosen for this project by chance. It has history with Jaguar, and has previous created the 1957 XK150, the 1966 FT concept car, the 1967 Pirana, and 1977 Ascot. For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express
Thanks to: Auto Express
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