Jaguar has confirmed it will utilise a new lightweight high-tech aluminium construction to boost efficiency in its new XE model.

A massive 75% of the car’s structure will be made of aluminium, with some sections made from a new grade of high-strength recycled aluminium alloy developed especially for the new model, which is set to rival cars such as the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4.

The lightweight construction will combine with advanced aerodynamics to produce a car that Jaguar say will not only be very fuel efficient, but also great fun to drive. The car will be powered by a new range of 2.0-litre, four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines called “Ingenium”.

The use of such high levels of aluminium will raise issues with many bodyshops and is likely to restrict repairs to Jaguar specialists or the limited number of independent repair centres that have invested in aluminium bays.

The XE will be officially launched in London in September and will arrive in showrooms in 2015.