The R-D6 is formed of aluminum and other composite materials, and its minimal 3,300-pound structure allows capitalization of the 2.7-liter diesel powerplant within. Mated to a six-speed manual transmission, the twin-turbocharged V-6 engine generates 230 bhp and roughly 369 foot-pounds of torque. It can rocket the coupe from zero to 60 mph in less than six seconds with all the grace and agility of a true Jaguar. The cat's top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph.

The R-D6 is 13 inches shorter than Jaguar's smallest car, the X-Type saloon. Its wheelbase measures just 112 inches for a compact design, but its width and height ensure all the road presence of a genuine four-seater. The R-D6 rides on 21-inch wheels that are machined from solid aluminum specifically for this vehicle. Set among sweeping lines and artistic shapes, its headlights are a modern interpretation of Jaguar's classic twin-lamp style. Twin-pipe exhausts are centrally mounted at the rear, and just atop, the iconic leaper has found a new perch at the back of the car.

Inside, the R-D6 juxtaposes classic and contemporary, modern and future. Aluminum accents are interwoven throughout an interior of leather and satin-finish veneer. A broad, solid aluminum "switch beam" and leather-trimmed instrument panel are broken only by the central touch-sensitive navigation and "infotainment" display screen.

Backseat passengers will find a surprising amount of room and comfort in the R-D6. When unoccupied, the rear seats can slide forward and almost interlock with the front seats to double the trunk space. 

Anxious Jaguar drivers don't have to wait for a production derivative of the R-D6 concept to take advantage of the technology it showcases. Jaguar's lightweight body architecture already is employed in the production XJ saloon.