The car gets a fresh look for 2008 and a host of new interior and exterior features to distinguish it. But its most significant changes have been reserved for under the metal, where the car, according to Jaguar, now features almost 500 new components.
Perhaps the most significant new addition is that of a six-speed automatic or Jaguar's sequential one-touch shift mated with its existing 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine.
Jaguar also claims that in introducing the new transmission, several changes were made to the car's cooling system, its weight was reduced and NVH characteristics addressed.
Visual changes include revised front and rear bumpers, new grille treatment, fresh badging and side mirrors now with integrated indicator signals.
Changes have also been made to the cabin, which sports a redesigned instrument cluster, metallic finishes dotted throughout, a new Rosewood veneer option, new seat designs and new colour and trim options.
Electronic improvements include a digital audio broadcasting (DAB) audio system (not for South Africa), a new Bluetooth system that allows pairing with up to five different devices and revised rear parking aids that allow the sensors to be smaller and body-coloured.
The car's public debut is expected later this year while local sales kick off in April 2008.