The F-Type, which made its U.S. debut at the LA Motor Show last week and is scheduled to go on sale in May 2013, is much more than just the high-profile sports car that’s been missing from Jaguar’s range for a long time.
True, the F-Type has been well-received and is expected to boost Jaguar’s image considerably. It is equally true, though, that the two-seater roadster will be a low-volume model – even if we add the coupe, which is expected at the 2013 Geneva Auto Show, in the mix.
With a lineup that comprises only three models – the XK coupe and cabriolet, XF sedan and XJ flagship limousine –, Jaguar needs a smaller, more affordable car in order boost sales and successfully compete with the likes of the BMW 3-series and the rest of Germany's premium offerings such as the Mercedes C-Class and Audi A4. According to the brand’s new global director, Adrian Hallmark, the automaker is currently considering a small sports car positioned below the XF that could spawn numerous variants including a four-door sedan.
