Jaguar C-Type in the Pipeline for 2012

LONDON — Jaguar is working on a compact two-place roadster that would be an affordable competitor to the Porsche Boxster.

According to the U.K.'s Auto Express, the so-called C-Type would also target such rivals as the BMW Z4, the Audi TT and the Nissan 370Z. The publication said the baby Jag would be priced below $65,000 when it arrives in 2012 at the earliest.

Citing "insider information," Auto Express says the Jaguar two-seater will borrow styling cues from Ian Callum's XF, with such highlights as a mesh grille, LED headlamps, thin taillamps, a power bulge in the hood, a steeply raked windshield, muscular haunches and short overhangs.

Body and chassis would be made of aluminum, with a power canvas top.

Engine choices would include a 235-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 and a 380-hp 5.0-liter V8, both shared with the XF, as well as a 272-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter diesel. The only transmission would be a six-speed automatic with steering-wheel-mounted paddles.

Auto Express says even the base six-cylinder engine should provide 0-60-mph acceleration in around 7.0 seconds. The V8 flagship could trim that to 5.0 seconds.

Renderings come from beyond-form.

Inside Line says: It makes perfect sense for Jaguar — if Ratan Tata can find the money. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent