2011 Jaguar C-X16

2011 Jaguar C-X16

2011 Jaguar C-X16

2011 Jaguar C-X16

2011 Jaguar C-X16

2011 Jaguar C-X16

2011 Jaguar C-X16

The latest concept, due for a complete unveiling at the Frankfurt Auto Show, is the C-X16 Production Concept, shown here in the first official images, and it looks much more like something that will see high-volume production.

That, of course, is because it will. Dropping the ubiquitous eight-cylinder engines in the current range of sports/GT cars, the C-X16 instead employs a supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 plus an "experimental" performance hybrid system like that found on the Limo-Green research car. That doesn't mean it's short on power though: it packs 375 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. According to Jaguar, that's good for 4.4 seconds to 62 mph and 186 mph top speed. Fifty to 75 mph takes just 2.1 seconds--meaning strong passing.

A ZF eight-speed automatic transmission shifts the gears, start-stop enhances fuel economy, OLED displays on the switchgear give the car a high-tech feel, and the interior is clearly aimed at balancing sport with luxury, with features like an "intelligent" automatic climate control system, composite seats with a carbon fiber spine, and red leather upholstery.

The coolest feature, however, may be the somewhat F1-like "push to pass" button the steering wheel that controls the "hybrid boost function," delivering more power when the driver wants it.