Jaguar picks up the F-Pace

JAGUAR has confirmed it will build a production version of its C-X17 SUV concept – dubbed the F-Pace – and the sporty high-riding wagon is coming to Australia.

Accompanied by a single rear three-quarter image revealing the new name, Jaguar said in a brief statement that the model was undergoing development and testing, and would go on sale globally in 2016, with an Australian debut likely for the same year.

While the image reveals little of the production-ready SUV design, it has retained the F-Type-style tail-lights of the concept that was revealed at the 2013 Frankfurt motor show.

The sharply raked tailgate of the concept also remains, suggesting that the styling of the production version will not differ greatly from the well-received concept.

The Indian-owned British marque said the F-Pace will be underpinned by the group's “aluminium-intensive” architecture – which it will reportedly share with the forthcoming XE mid-size sedan –and will feature an advanced suspension system.

Jaguar also says its five-seat SUV will have “class-leading” interior space and “exceptional” dynamic ability, making it a “true performance crossover”.

Keeping the F-Pace in check will be the company's all-wheel drive system and its All-Surface Progress Control tech that is similar to a low-speed cruise control to ensure optimum traction in wet conditions without any skidding and without the driver needing to touch the pedals.

This system will debut first on the XE which is due in the third quarter of the year.

Jaguar design director Ian Callum said the reaction to the concept SUV in 2013 influenced the company's decision to put the model into production.

“We received such an overwhelmingly positive response to the C-X17 concept car last year that we just had to make it a reality,” he said.

“The Jaguar F-Pace, inspired by the F-Type, represents a perfectly judged balance of performance, style and practicality. It offers a unique combination of Jaguar sports car inspired exterior design, fused beautifully with a thoroughly practical and spacious luxury interior. The F-Pace is our family sportscar.”

The confirmation of a production version of the C-X17 was an obvious move, with the car-maker lacking any crossover in its line-up, and sister brand Land Rover handling all of the high-riding off-road duties for the group.

Some reports had suggested the production SUV would be dubbed Q-Type or XQ, but Jaguar has elected to link the new moniker to that of its successful F-Type sportscar that went on sale in convertible guise in July 2013.

No powertrain details are available as yet but expect some engines from the XE range, including the 3.0-litre supercharged V6 that is also available under the bonnet of the F-Type and potentially the super frugal 2.0-litre Ingenium diesel that sips just 4.0 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres in the sedan.

Jag's newest addition will take on the likes of the Audi Q5, BMW's X3, Mercedes' forthcoming GLC and even sister company Land Rover's soon-to-be-released Discovery Sport.