Jaguar plans to add sporty hatchback to lineup in 2014

(November 2, 2009) Jaguar plans to add a dramatically styled sporty hatchback to its lineup beginning in 2014.

Viewed in some quarters as a replacement for the X-Type, the new model has been inspired by the R-D6 concept first shown at the 2003 Frankfurt auto show.

The R-D6 design, which had been considered an ill fit for the brand's traditional sedan/sports-car image, is now gaining support at the highest levels of the company as it forges an independent future under Indian owner Tata Motors.

With a compact footprint and lightweight aluminum body and chassis, the sports hatch, dubbed R-D7 by one insider, also would help reduce Jaguar's corporate average emissions and improve its fleet fuel economy.