The C‑X16 features perfect 50:50 weight distribution and a prototype hybrid powertrain comprising a 380PS (280kW), 332lb ft (450Nm) supercharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine, allied to an electric motor producing an additional 70kW and 235Nm (equivalent to 95PS and 173lb ft). Driving the rear wheels through an eight-speed transmission, this hybrid powertrain gives the lightweight C‑X16 the potential to accelerate to 62mph in 4.4 seconds before going on to reach 186mph.

The new V6 engine uses the same lightweight aluminium architecture as the eight-cylinder with a high-pressure, die-cast block with cross-bolted main bearing caps for increased strength and refinement. The dual-cam, four-valve cylinder heads are constructed with recycled aluminium to reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing.

A lightweight aluminium chassis returns an economy of 41mpg and combined emissions of 165g/km of CO₂. To increase fuel efficiency in real-world driving conditions, the eight-speed gearbox is fitted with Jaguar’s Intelligent Stop/Start, which shuts down the engine 300 milliseconds after the car has stopped. Recently launched to great acclaim in the XF, the system uses a Twin Solenoid Starter that is capable of restarting it in the time it takes the driver’s foot to travel from the brake to the accelerator.

To ensure the power plant delivers not only the power but also the refinement that Jaguar cars are famous for, the V6 features a patented system of independently rotating balancer weights at the front and rear of the engine. Anyone familiar with the smooth, powerful V8 will find that the V6 shares all its power delivery and refinement characteristics, with its own stirring soundtrack, while delivering improved economy and emissions meeting SULEV 30 (Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle) and EU VI emission standards.