While those seeking practicality will be getting excited about the launch of the rather pretty Jaguar E-Pace, the automaker's first compact SUV, those who are looking for power and performance will be intrigued by the Jaguar XE SV Project 8.

It is powered by a 5.0-litre V8 engine with 592hp and 700Nm of torque. It does the 0-100km/h dash in a swift 3.7 seconds and only 300 will be made available worldwide.

Elite Living Africa got up close with a brilliant orange - Valencia Orange, to be precise - version of the car at the Dubai Motor Show. Complete with a jaguar ready to pounce over one of the 20-inch alloy wheels and an aggressive black spoiler to the back, the XE SV Project 8 cuts an eye-catching figure. It's certainly not a car for the shy driver.

Inside, the seats are upholstered in leather and suedecloth in Jet, a suitably named shade of black, and the carbon fibre veneers complete the dark and menacing look. But customers are free to personalise the interior and exterior colours and choose between two and four seats.

The price is available on request.