Jaguar R-Coupe Concept
What's special about it?
Conceived to showcase Jaguar's design vocabulary for the future, the four-seat R-Coupe Concept showcases the luxury automaker's core design values as they will be interpreted for the future. It is a long-term vision, one that reaffirms Jaguar's commitment to creating cars that stir the emotions. Note that the grille, quad headlamps, high beltline, multi-spoked wheels and thick chrome greenhouse trim are all hallmarks of Jaguar design.
Jaguars of the 1950s and 1960s inspired the R-Coupe's proportions and stance. Restrained exterior detail, supported by strong geometric forms underneath the flowing sheetmetal, was the goal to achieve an elegant, upscale appearance. Inside is a warm, rich interior chock-full of Connolly leather and rich wood; not surprising, given that this is a Jag. Designers claim that the latest trends in furniture and interior design propelled the thinking behind this lush cabin. Leather covers the floor and seats, while wood veneer coats the dash and doors. Silver-plated interior trim adds just the right amount of contrast and class.
Under the hood is a V8 engine that drives the rear wheels through a transmission equipped with Formula One-style paddle shifters. The headlamp beams follow steering direction in turns, helping to illuminate blind spots on the pavement. Doors are electronically released, and a sophisticated voice-activated telematics system is included. Occupants can tailor their portion of the cabin to their unique tastes.
Not intended for production, the R-Coupe Concept embodies themes and ideas that will find their way onto future Jaguar products. This is the first Jaguar vehicle designed exclusively under the direction of Ian Callum, who was appointed the head of Jaguar's Advanced Design team in 1999.
Why should you care?
Jaguar's R-Coupe Concept showcases the luxury automaker's future design language, providing hints about the way upcoming Jags will look and, with regard to the interior, feel. Though a four-place coupe may never arrive in a Jaguar showroom near you, it's a good bet that the next-generation XJ, XK, S-Type and X-Type will take cues from this concept vehicle. Christian Wardlaw

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