1996 Jaguar Xjs on 2040-cars

Auto blog

Jaguar Classic's 3.8-liter engine block costs nearly as much as a new Jetta

Jaguar is helping collectors restore its vintage models by resuming production of the 3.8-liter six-cylinder engine block it built between 1958 and 1968. Called XK, the straight-six originally powered half a dozen models (including the famous E-Type), and its modern recreation costs nearly as much as a new compact sedan. Wearing part number C22250, the cast-iron block is built to the original's specifications by Jaguar's Classic division, and it comes with a 12-month warranty. Sourcing a used block would likely be markedly cheaper than ordering a new one from the factory, but enthusiasts who value originality above all will appreciate the fact that it comes certificate of authenticity. Customers who send the company proof of vehicle ownership can even retain the serial number from the engine they're pulling out, though an asterisk will identify it as a replacement. Jaguar built the XK engine for several decades, but the 3.8-liter variant only remained in production for 10 years. It powered cars like the surprisingly quick XK 150 roadster, the stately Mark IX and early examples of the E-Type, though its displacement grew to 4.2 liters in 1964. As of this writing, only the 3.8-liter XK is available new. If the E-Type you're painstakingly restoring deserves nothing less than the best, or if you think a 3.8-liter block makes an awesome coffee table, you'll need to send Jaguar a check for GBP14,340 including taxes, a sum that represents approximately $17,800 at the current conversion rate. Enthusiasts will also need to source pistons, connecting rods, a crankshaft and a complete cylinder head, among many other parts, so the cost of a full rebuild will lie well beyond the $20,000 threshold. For context, Volkswagen charges $18,895 for an entry-level Jetta. Related Video:

Jaguar moves to trademark C-Pace name

Jaguar is again picking up the pace. The manufacturer has filed a new European trademark application with the word "Pace" in it, and this time it's all about the C-Pace. While there is no other info to go with the name, it could very well stand for a new, upcoming compact crossover that would exist as an entry-level vehicle under the F-Pace, E-Pace and the electric I-Pace (which is easily differentiated from the non-electric E-pace, as the I-Pace doesn't use internal combustion). Australia's CarAdvice suggests the eventual range-topping Pace model would be called the J-Pace, to go along with the XJ nameplate that's formed an upscale backbone for Jaguar for decades. As for sedans, the XE is paired with the E-Pace, and the F-Pace corresponds to the XF; with Volvo's crossover versions already reserving the XC name, there's no chance for Jaguar to have a matching C-Pace and XC combination in its portfolio. The C-Pace could also be a crossover coupe version based on either the E-Pace or the F-Pace. The trademark application was filed on July 9, and along with car-related goods and services, the application also covers software and charging stations, even buildings. We'll keep an eye on it. Related Video: This content is hosted by a third party. To view it, please update your privacy preferences. Manage Settings. News Source: CarAdviceImage Credit: AOL Rumormill Jaguar Crossover Future Vehicles jaguar land rover jaguar crossover

Ford's J Mays feels vindicated by Fusion reception

It's hard to think back now, but the same man overseeing the design of the 2013 Ford Fusion also presided over a rather lackluster period in Ford design, highlighted by vehicles like the Five Hundred and Freestyle. With the redesigned Fusion receiving high praise, J Mays tells Automotive News that he feels vindicated from criticisms suggesting he's not a daring enough designer.
When Mays took over as lead of design in 1997, he admits to having quite an ego ("My head would barely fit through the door some days. I've long since gotten over myself") and the workload to match. With the Blue Oval's portfolio full of premium brands like Aston Martin, Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo at that point, along with the bread-and-butter Ford, Lincoln and Mercury models, Mays certainly had quite the challenge.
It was in the mid-2000s that Mays took over just the premium brands, and took on the new title of Chief Creative Officer. At the time, Mays endured some criticism for looking backwards to retro styling, rather than setting a new standard for American car design - criticism that Mays says he is free from with the all-new Fusion.