Jaguar looks set to leap into new and uncharted territory after unveiling its first ever crossover vehicle at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
At the same time the Midland car-maker also announced plans for a new BMW 3-Series rival which will go on sale next year.
Although the C-X17 crossover is a concept car designed to showcase the firm’s advanced aluminium monocoque architecture, it is also expected to make it into production within a relatively short time frame.
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The super lightweight chassis structure will form the basis of an upcoming range of Jaguar models, with the first being a mid-sized saloon to take on German pace-setters Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz in an intensely competitive segment.
The first aluminium monocoque vehicle in this segment Jaguar promised it would be “the most advanced, efficient and refined sports saloon in its class”.
The cars will use a new generation of four-cylinder engines set to be built at Jaguar Land Rover’s new engine plant near Wolverhampton.
Jaguar said these powerplants would combine performance and efficiency as never before and be capable of speeds of up to 186mph while also offering emissions of less than 100g of CO2 per kilometre.
The C-X17 marks a radical departure for Jaguar into the fast-growing SUV segment and will see it follow in the footsteps of sister company Land Rover.
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If the crossover goes into production it will also compete with the established German premium marques, as well as with Porsche, which is set to launch its small Macan SUV in the near future.
Jaguar’s global brand director, Adrian Hallmark, said: “The C-X17 sports crossover represents an exciting new direction for Jaguar.
“Its purpose is to highlight our all-new aluminium architecture.
“With this technical foundation, we will dramatically expand Jaguar’s product offering, market potential and customer appeal.
“This new philosophy will bring technology from our luxury products into an accessible price segment, and when combined with our new ultra-efficient engines, we will set a global standard.
“Add to these rational values, the class-leading dynamics, and the beauty and purity of form that Jaguar is renowned for, and we have the formula for a monumental leap forward.”
The C-X17 also showcases new interior technologies including Interactive Surface Console – a multi-screen infotainment network that links passengers with each other and the outside world through social media channels.