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 that’s due next year, the E-Pace gets a platform unique to Jaguar and will be offered with front or four-wheel drive.

Line-up brings 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 150hp, 180hp and 240hp or two petrols with 250hp or 300hp. All of these can be equipped with a nine-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.

The 150hp and 180hp 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 4.7l/100km when fitted with 17-inch wheels.

Standard equipment includes Touch Pro infotainment and All-Surface Progress Control as well as Driver Condition Monitoring, Autonomous Emergency Braking and LED headlights.