Frankfurt Motor Show - Like it or not, Jaguar is taking the big, profitable plunge into the premium SUV game. Although this C-X17 Concept, revealed on the eve of the Frankfurt show, is technically still a concept it looks production-ready enough to give away the game.
Nonetheless it's likely to garner nods of approval from most corners for the way it stretches Jaguar's contemporary design language - note the XF inspired front and F-Type taillights - around a shapely SUV shell.
According to Jaguar the C-X17 Concept previews the company's advanced new aluminium monocoque architecture. Being modular and scalable, it will underpin a range of future Jaguars of different sizes.
First off the mark will be a new mid-sized sedan that will likely compete at the upper end of the BMW 3 Series' turf when it sees light of day in 2015.
No on-sale date has been set for a production version of the C-X17, which Jaguar describes as a sports crossover that "stretches the design possibilities of the segment by combining the character and driving experience of a sports car with increased presence, style and flexibility."
The C-X17 perches 213mm above the ground on imposing 23-inch alloys, and their all-weather dexterity is ensured by Jaguar's permanent all-wheel drive system that continually monitors grip levels and driver inputs.
NEW RANGE OF ENGINES
On the engine front, the production C-X17 would likely mimic the 2015 sedan, which - according to Jaguar - will offer a range of yet-to-be-announced four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines in addition to the supercharged V6 motor which is fitted to the F-Type in 250kW and 280kW guises.
The C-X17 concept's interior, however, would more than likely be toned down somewhat. It features four sculpted bucket seats, an 'elliptical' panoramic roof and a large central tunnel that runs into the rear cabin and incorporates Jaguar's Interactive Surface Control.
This 'infotainment hub' is made up of numerous touch-screens under a continuous panel of transparent acrylic glass and the system allows passengers to connect and share experiences with each other and the outside world through traditional social media channels.
Family outings will never be the same.