Jaguar will unveil the latest addition to its saloon car family, the Jaguar XE, at a star-studded event in London on September 8, claiming to reveal level of innovation new to the segment.

Built around an all-new, aluminium-intensive architecture, Jaguar claims the XE "combines thrilling performance, agile handling and precise, responsive steering, with outstanding levels of refinement".

Mike Cross, chief engineer of vehicle integrity, said: "Jaguars have always been renowned for a balance of precise handling and a high-quality ride.

"The XE is the culmination of everything the company has learned over the years. The integral link rear suspension provides a combination of supple ride and crisp handling that is unmatched in this segment. We are on target to deliver a vehicle that dynamically outperforms our rivals."

Unique to this segment, the integral link suspension delivers major benefits over conventional multi-link designs, according to Jaguar.

By providing lateral and longitudinal stiffness, the integral link delivers sharp response and handling while retaining a refined, luxurious ride.

Many components of the integral link suspension have been forged or hollow-cast in aluminium to help reduce weight.

Mounted to a subframe with cast aluminium suspension towers, the XE’s double wishbone front suspension is based on that of the F-Type.

These aim to ensure ensure the XE enjoys a similar level of agility and ‘connected’ steering feel, says Jaguar. Like the rear suspension, many components are made from cast and forged aluminium and some are produced using a patented process.

The XE will be the first Jaguar to be equipped with the latest generation electric power assisted steering, which the company says will offer class-leading 'feel'.

Jaguar has developed all surface progress control (ASPC), a completely new feature in its class of rear-wheel drive cars.

Developed with the input of decades of Jaguar Land Rover experience in off-road traction systems, Jaguar says ASPC can electronically gain traction with far less drama than a human driver can achieve.

The system works like a low-speed cruise control to deliver optimum traction in the most slippery conditions without skidding and without the driver using the pedals.