Jaguar XF Sportbrake wagon to debut at Geneva Motor Show

Jaguar has decided to release images of its newest vehicle offering, the Jaguar XF Sportbrake, ahead of the public debut at the Geneva Motor Show. Showing the world that Jaguar means serious business in the wagon market.

Jaguar is claiming that the new Jaguar XF Sportbrake wagon will be the most versatile Jaguar ever created.

The new Jaguar XF Sportbrake shares underpinnings with the XF sedan, but the Sportbrake's overall length only grew by just 0.19 (5mm) and weight only grew by 154 pounds (70kg) compared to the XF sedan.

The chassis structure matches the strength of the XF. Meaning the Sportbrake can closely match the superb handling of the XF sedan, but obviously offers the large and highly practical load space of a wagon.

Jaguar did have to redesign every panel on the XF Sportbrake from the B-Pillar rearwards. The strong silver signature line running the length of the car is extended while the C-Pillar is finished in gloss black, a trait shared with the XJ sedan. Slim rear light units extend into a strong chrome crossmember that overpowers the rear of the car. The result is a car that blends style and function with the rear seat occupants benefitting from 1.8 inches (48mm) of extra rear headroom.

The rear tailgate can be outfitted with power struts for convenience of opening and closing., When open it reveals a wide and highly versatile load space. Measuring 145 gallons (550 liters) with the rear seats up, the trunk is framed by a set of useful cubby compartments. With the rears seats folded down, the total volume grows to a startling 442 gallons (1,675 liters).

The XF Sportbrake features a lot of practical and useful features and touches. Remote fold levers are mounted within the trunk area to lower the rear seats, which negates the need to stretch into the trunk to reach a lever. Powerful LEDs throw a pool of light onto the ground when the trunk is open while the tailgate itself features a soft close function, avoiding any requirement for it to be slammed. Set into the trunk floor is a panel that splits into three sections to allow smaller loads to be neatly wedged and avoiding a precious or fragile cargo being thrown about. A tray mounted under the trunk floor helps protect valuable items.

Beneath the car there are extensive changes to the rear suspension. The XF will be fittted with self-levelling air suspension aids, improve driving dynamics. These will help the XF Sportbrake serve as a tow vehicle.

Powering the XF Sportbrake will be a range of efficient and powerful diesel engines in 2.2-liter four cylinder and 3 liter six-cylinder versions. The engines will power the rear wheels via an advanced eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Prices and specifications will be announced nearer the time of the launch of the Sportbrake, set to take place in the third quarter of 2012.

Sales in the UK are supposed to commence later this year. No word on if this is coming to the US, but since wagons sales are not strong, I doubt it. Of course Jaguar hopes you will look at these pictures and say, “Hey that is one hot looking wagon!”