Suppliers for the next generation Jaguar S-type (current car - right) will be chosen this spring, sources have told Autocar. Codenamed X250, the new S-type (expected in spring 2007 at the earliest) will be built around an aluminium chassis, but insiders say it is not exactly the same under-structure as the XJ’s.
Problems highlighted when engineering the new XK sports car – which is based on the XJ – have led to an overhaul of Jaguar’s aluminium monocoque. Sources say the new chassis should be much cheaper to produce, among other advantages. The improvement is so marked that the XJ replacement has been brought forward.
Meanwhile, the facelifted XJ (codenamed X357) is also due in 2007. Expect a new nose, tail and dash design.
We also hear the S-type will follow the XJ in breaking the long, low look established with the XJ6 in 1968. It’s thought it will have a conventional high-set boot. ‘You can’t deny physics forever,’ a senior figure told Autocar.
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