Fifty years after the much-loved E-type made its debut, Jaguar has finally announced its spiritual successor. Going by the codename C-X16, the small coupé – thought to be named ‘XE’ when it reaches production – will debut in concept form at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show.

Jaguar has released an official sketch, showing an obvious reference to its predecessor’s long bonnet and rearward passenger cabin. The wheels have been moved further to the corners of the car, which will give the concept a more aggressive stance than the original, while also providing more space for occupants which will no doubt be welcomed by owners of existing E-types.

Jaguar is keen to keep its much-anticipated two-seater under wraps, but the C-X16 will be positioned below Jaguar’s only current coupé - the XK - which leaves Jaguar with the opportunity to send the next generation of the GT car upmarket. When it arrives in ‘XE’ production form, the new car is likely to go head-to-head with the Porsche Cayman, BMW Z4 and Mercedes-Benz SLK, and carry a price tag of around £40,000.

More details on the C-X16 Concept will be revealed before its official debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show, so look out for information and pictures on Classic Driver early next month.

Text: Joe Breeze
Photo: Jaguar