Jaguar C-X16 Concept Breaks Cover Ahead of 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show

GAYDON, England — The same "redefining performance" theme that drove last year's sensational C-X75 concept also underpins Jaguar's latest endeavor, the striking C-X16 hybrid coupe, which looks as if it could easily segue into the showroom with few alterations.

Inspired by the C-X75, the new Jaguar two-seater, which debuts at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show, showcases a different spin on hybrid technology, in this instance paired with a Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) adapted from Formula 1.

Where the C-X75 is an all-wheel-drive turbine-electric supercar expected to sell for $1.15 million, the C-X16 is a bit more down to earth. It starts with a front-mounted supercharged 3.0-liter V6 — a new direct-injection prototype unit based on Jaguar's familiar AJ-V8 — developing 375 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, driving the rear wheels through a ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Then things get a bit fancy. Jaguar engineers have integrated an electric motor with the transmission, along with a KERS-type system that constantly replenishes the lithium-ion battery pack through brake regeneration and provides short bursts of additional power — up to 94 hp and 173 lb-ft of torque — at the touch of a button on the steering wheel.

Performance is remarkable, with 0-60 acceleration achieved in less than 4.4 seconds and top speed electronically limited to 186 mph.

The swoopy Ian Callum-designed aluminum-bodied coupe is finished in gunmetal, its lines reflecting what Jaguar describes as the "next evolution" in the brand's design language. The C-X16 boasts a signature trapezoidal grille, similar to the one on the C-X75, as well as such defining elements as a clamshell hood, carbon-fiber front splitter and side sills, plus flush door handles that pop up when touched. The car rides on 21-inch wheels and tires.

The "1+1" cockpit of the C-X16 is equally eye-catching — finished in Vermillion Red and trimmed in leather, Alcantara, anodized aluminum, piano black, dark chrome and carbon fiber.

Among the cutting-edge technologies in the cabin are multimodal rotary dials that incorporate miniature OLED screens, which reconfigure to reflect different functions. The car also features full smartphone integration, with a central touchscreen that reconfigures to mimic the screen of a connected device.

Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar's global brand director, said: "The C-X16 is our compelling vision for a 21st-century Jaguar sports car. It embodies the established Jaguar strengths of sensual design, animal-like agility and inspirational performance and combines these with attributes that set us on a course to create sustainable sports cars of the future."

Inside Line says: The automaker describes the C-X16 as "a bold statement of Jaguar's future design and technological intent." Once again, we're impressed.