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Will the 2016 Jaguar XE decide to go Cabrio?

Jaguar has already shown us the XE sedan but rumors are swirling about the possibility of a XE Cabrio model and I am ready to see the renderings.
Jaguar XE Cabrio

The covers have already been pulled off of Jaguar’s XE entry level (compact sports) sedan but the internet is already buzzing about a rumor of the XE going cabrio with a two door cabrio model. It just makes sense to me that they would want to go head to head with the competition in this category. The BMW 3-Series, Mercedes C- Class, Audi A4, and the Cadillac ATS (all who have a drop-top model) will gladly welcome the XE into the arena.

Jaguar should offer this new model in the same engine configurations they announced in the XE sedan, but most likely the top shelf 3.0 liter “Supercharged” V6 with an estimated 340 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque would be the best choice. Previous coverage of the new 2016 XE sedan can be found here.

The popularity of the F-Type Roadsters should give Jaguar all the confidence they need to decide to build this drop top XE. An added benefit should be a more affordable convertible than the higher priced F-Types but with all of the same excitement and pure driving joy that Jaguar is known for.

The price estimates for the 2016 Jaguar XE sedan are projected in the range of $40,000 to $55,000, so I am guessing that would put the two door cabrio in the $65,000 range. With the 2015 F-Type convertible base price being over $100,000 the XE cabrio could be a major attraction to potential buyers who want to let the wind blow their hair.

Let’s hope that Jaguar is paying attention to the websites, forums, and news buzz when they sit down to make the final decision on the possibility of building this car. Why would they not want a piece of the convertible pie?

Rendering courtesy of Theophilus Chin.

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Comments

Bartz-Johannessen (not verified)    June 10, 2015 - 5:13PM

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Hope we soon see this 4 seat cabriolet, but in order for such car to be a success Jaguar must fit this car with a foldable steel roof, not the traditional fabric roof. By doing so will they no doubt get a great advantage compared to the competitors. Petsonally will I purchase this car, but only witj folding steel roof.

Jon Gwynne (not verified)    June 26, 2015 - 5:26PM

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There are pros and cons to a folding steel roof. Weight and expense are the two big negatives. The Germans have clearly shown that a folding metal roof isn't mandatory for this sort of car and Jaguar has shown that they can make cloth roofs that are just as cosy and quiet as the metal kind - but with less weight and lower cost.

If they do a metal roof it should be an option. Let those who want to get better performance and save money have their cloth roof.