Jaguar C-X17-based model "is not an SUV"

Jaguar Land Rover boss Ralf Speth has said that the new Jag, based on the C-X17 concept showcased last year, will be a sport-biased offering. Although a 4x4, the new car should not be called an SUV, according to Speth. This C-X17 based model is expected to make it to global markets in 2016, and has been confirmed to be heavily focussed on on-road dynamics rather than off-road.

“A Jaguar SUV is not possible,” said Speth. “SUVs and 4x4s are for Land Rover. The Jaguar concept is far more road-orientated. It will need a different kind of name.” For now, the JLR crew seems to be referring to it as a sports crossover. The car will be dynamically and aggressively styled, yet will offer something very different from what a Land Rover offers.

“Mike Cross and his vehicle dynamics team will do an extraordinary job to make sure that it is sensational to drive on the road. It will be something special in that regard. Of course, it will not be anything like a sports car, but it will have a very specific character that sets it apart,” said Speth.