THIS is Jaguar’s replacement for the S-type, and even below the disguise it appears the car is shedding its retro styling.

The new car, called the XF and due to go on sale next spring, will usher in a whole new look for Jaguar – essential if it is to compete with Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz in the executive sector.

The production version of the XF will make its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

When it goes on sale, there will be a choice of 3.0-litre V6 and 4.2-litre V8 petrol engines, as well as the 2.7-litre twin-turbo V6 diesel.