Jaguar XK to move further upmarket

The next-generation Jaguar XK is set to grow in size following the introduction of the F-type. Design director Ian Callum said Jaguar was “going through a lot of discussion” about how the XK should evolve.

No final decision has yet been taken, but Callum said there was an opportunity to “allow the car to become a bit more special than a GT”.

“It could grow into the luxury market, and grow in size,” he said. “Whether it stays the same as a two-plus-two or becomes a two-plus-more-than-two has not been committed to yet.”

The F-type’s launch removes the need for the XK to act as out-and-out sports coupé and luxury GT. With the F-type becoming Jaguar’s dedicated sports car, there’s scope for the XK to focus on its luxury GT credentials.

While a shift in strategy for the XK seems likely, the XJ is set to remain as a conventional saloon in its next generation, despite the declining market for such luxury four-doors.

Sales of large luxury SUVs are now dwarfing luxury saloons, but Callum believes it’s the state of the global economy rather than a shift in market trends that is to blame for dwindling luxury saloon sales. “I think the market will come back,” he said. “We’re strong in China and big cars are also always going to be popular in the US.”

Callum didn’t confirm the existence of a large Jaguar crossover to sit alongside the XJ in its line-up, but said the firm “had to take notice” of the growing popularity of crossovers and SUVs.