Jaguar is to enter the compact crossover class later this year, with the new E-Pace challenging cars such as the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and Range Rover Evoque.

Jaguar’s forthcoming E-Pace compact crossover will bring three trim levels and three diesel engines.

Positioned beneath the F-Pace, and launching in addition to the all-electric I-Pace SUV which is due next year, the E-Pace gets a platform unique to Jaguar and will be offered with front or four-wheel drive.

On-the-road pricing starts at £28,500, with a choice of three S, SE and HSE trim levels, each also available as a sportier-looking R-Dynamic version.

In turn, these can be equipped with three diesel engines producing 148bhp, 178bhp and 237bhp or two petrols with 246bhp or 296bhp. All of these can be equipped with a nine-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.

The 148bhp and 178bhp diesel engines are both also available with a six-speed manual transmission, and the entry-level engine is the only one offered with front-wheel drive, bringing CO2 emissions down to 124g/km with 60.1mpg when fitted with 17-inch wheels.

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