2013 Frankfurt - Jaguar C-X17 Concept previews the British brand's first crossover

This could be the most definitive moment in Jaguar’s recent history since the famous British luxury car-manufacturer was acquired by Tata Motors. That sounds a bit exaggerated we know, but looking at what crossovers did for its competitors, that statement could eventually turn out to be true. Ending months of speculation, Jaguar finally unveiled the C-X17 Concept, its first ever crossover, at the recently concluded Frankfurt Motor Show. Glowing in the spotlights of the popular German city, the C-X17 Concept previewed the design direction of the brand’s first crossover that’s expected to join the lineup in the not-so-distant future.

As evident from the pictures, the C-X17 Concept is instantly recognizable as a Jaguar as it borrows prominent design cues from other Jag models. The thin headlights featuring multiple clusters of LEDs and the bold trapezoidal wire mesh grille are very similar to those found in the XF and XJ sedans, while the superbly-shaped taillight clusters are an ode to the gorgeous F-Type roadster. The strong creases in the hood combined with the broad shoulders give the Jag crossover an imposing stance. Though this is labeled a concept, let’s not be kidding ourselves that the production model won’t look like this. And if it does, the fact that Jaguar got the styling so right with most of the family design elements imbibed is an achievement in itself. Remember, a few other luxury car brands couldn’t do that the first time.

In what is a total contrast to the exteriors, the interiors are pure concept car stuff and none of the flashy stuff in the show car is likely to make it to production. Who is going to complain anyway, if the crossover sports interior appointments similar to the existing Jag models?

Also debuting in the concept is the company’s new advanced aluminium architecture that will span a range of future Jaguar models, including the upcoming midsize sedan that will end up locking horns with the compact luxury sedans from Germany. This uni-body platform is modular and scalable and reinforces Jaguar’s commitment towards the lightweight material. Let’s not forget that the previous generation XJ rose to fame with its all-aluminium construction. With multiple benefits in the form of increased rigidity and stiffness in a light weight chassis, Jaguar, like many fellow automotive manufacturers, believes that aluminium is the way to go and rightly so.

With sister brand Land Rover focusing on hardcore off-roaders, it makes perfect sense for Jaguar to venture into the crossover segment and make some quick bucks. Looking at this concept, the leaping cat is all set to pounce!