Ian Callum, Jaguar Design Director, has very clearly dismissed the rumors of the next-generation XJ being offered in two body styles while speaking at the 2013 Shanghai Auto Show.
Ian confirmed that the company is working on a new XJ but the current plan is to offer just one body style in short and long wheelbases. He clearly mentioned that the company is not looking towards idea of making two body styles. The reason cited for the same is very high cost and the contradictory message. He further stated that they have to believe in what they are making and if they do two body styles, it would undermine that fact.
The whole story or we can call it a speculation about two body styles started earlier this month when Edmunds reported that Jaguar was going to offer a retro-inspired XJ that would be sold together with the standard model. The model was alleged to be in development to pacify the Chinese consumers who prefer conservative styling.
The message from Ian has therefore confirmed of just one body style being made and the company has definitely kept the interest of the customers and the image of the company as the priority while taking the decision.