Jaguar Developing Coupe-Like Five Door Sedan

This coupe-like sedan trend just isn't going away, and based on what I've been seeing, that is a good thing indeed. Mercedes-Benz started this whole thing with the CLS, and other high-end manufacturers like Porsche and Aston Martin followed. Audi has one coming in the form of the A7 Sportback, and Jaguar might be joining the fray as well, albeit at a lower level.

The new model is code-named RD7 and is supposedly similar to the RD6 concept that debuted in 2003. The RD7 won't be a high-end range topper; in fact it would be the exact opposite, serving as the brand's new entry-level model. Think Audi A5 Sportback in terms of size and positioning.

Jaguar's renaissance has taken place at the higher end, with the outstanding XK, XF and XJ. For the future, it's imperative that Jaguar produce a competitive high-volume vehicle to slot in below the XF. Jaguar was said to be considering three and five-door configurations for the RD7, but has opted for the latter.

The car would be based on the XF's steel body architecture to keep development and production costs low. Don't expect it anytime soon though, as Inside Line says resources at the company are tight. Four years is when we'll most likely see it, after Jaguar launches the XE sportscar.