Jaguar 4×4 on the way?

Jaguar customers have reportedly been shown an exclusive concept of a 4×4 model, raising speculation that the British firm is preparing to launch a dramatic new SUV model.

BMW 3 Series rival Jaguar’s ‘top priority’

New baby Jaguar will not be another X-Type

New baby Range Rover Evoque

The new crossover model would be a radical departure for the brand but bosses believe it is necessary to broaden the famous company’s range and appeal to new customers.

It is unlikely the model would be a full off-roader, as this would step on sister company Land Rover’s toes. However, it is likely Jaguar would be able to produce a crossover SUV-style vehicle without stealing sales from its British cousin.

The new Jaguar 4×4 could be based on a variation of the multiple award-winning Range Rover Evoque platform, and might use the firm’s new range of high-performance petrol and diesel engines to be built in Birmingham.

Autocar reported on the latest developments for the mooted Jaguar SUV this week. However, in November 2011, MSN Cars actually published a mock-up image (above) of what a Jaguar 4×4 might look like.

Any new Jaguar 4×4 is unlikely to arrive before 2016 though. The firm’s priority, once the F-Type has been launched, is to roll out a new rival to the BMW 3 Series, as MSN Cars also reported today.

New baby Jaguar will not be another X-Type

New Jaguar F-Type

What do you think about news that Jaguar is testing the water for a new 4×4 SUV with customers? Do you think the brand should follow this route?