Jaguar XE Roadster Heading To Frankfurt: Report

Jaguar is believed to be planning a Frankfurt Motor Show unveiling for its long-rumoured roadster, according to reports out of Europe this week.

The report, by Britain's Autocar magazine, follows talk early last year that suggested Jaguar's parent company Tata had at last approved development of a Z4 and SLK-rivalling roadster - first hinted at by the F-Type concept revealed in 2000.

The magazine adds that the insiders at Jaguar have confirmed that a production version of the so-called 'XE' roadster will follow next month's concept in early 2012.

Details for the new model are hazy, although it is believed that the roadster will preview an updated design language for the British brand, while retaining the classic long-bonnet and short-tail look of past Jaguars.

The XE will reportedly utilise a shortened version of the all-aluminium platform planned for the next-generation XK, featuring a shorter wheelbase than the big coupe, and seating for two.

Power for the roadster will reportedly come from two V6 engines - one naturally aspirated and one supercharged - along with a version of Jaguar's 5.0 litre V8 engine for the flagship model.