Jaguar’s stand was dominated by its new estate version of its successful XF saloon.
It’s based on the existing XF platform and goes head-to-head with competitors like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class estate and BMW 5 Series Touring.
Also on Jaguar’s stand were special editions of the XK and XKR coupe.
Parkers Pick – XF Sportbrake
- What is it? An estate version of the popular XF
- Vital stats and facts: The real news is the boot, which holds up to 550 litres with the rear seats up, or 1,675 litres with the seats folded flat. The Sportbrake is just 5mm longer than the saloon and 70kg heavier. It also features a soft-close boot so you won’t have to slam it. Engines will be 2.2-litre and 3.0-litre diesels, sending power through an eight-speed automatic gearbox to the rear wheels. The rear seats are a new design, featuring a 60/40 split and an integral ski hatch. Levers in the load bay allow the seat backs to be dropped and while the tailgate is made partly from SMC (sheet moulded composite) to save weight and self-levelling rear air suspension is standard on all versions of the Sportbrake.
- Why would you buy it? It’ll be a comfortable and relatively efficient large estate car that looks good and is bound to drive well. See what Car Magazine’s has to say about the Sportbrake here.
- Why wouldn’t you? Traditionally the offerings from BMW and Mercedes-Benz have been more efficient so if costs are your main concern you may still want to ‘go German’.
- Prices and launch date: Third quarter of 2012, prices TBA but expected to start at around £33,000.
What else is on the stand?
Jaguar had ‘Special Edition’ versions of the XK and XKR models on display. Both feature special leather trim which covers a substantial amount of the interior, including the headlining, as well as an extensive range of equipment. They’re designed to deliver a ‘heightened level of opulence and comfort’.
For more news from the Geneva Motor Show 2012, click here.
