Tata Motors’ luxury car unit Jaguar has announced that all-wheel-drive (AWD) versions of the XF and XJ sedansns will be available in ‘snow belt’ markets from the 2013 model year.
“There are currently no plans to introduce AWD on the Sportbrake (the recently released estate car/wagon version) as currently Sportbrake is only available with diesel engines [2.2-litre I4 and three-litre V6] and AWD is only available with the new three-litre V6 petrol supercharged engine,” a spokesperson told just-auto.
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“Offered where consumer demand is highest – often driven by climate – the AWD models will increase the capability and versatility of the XF and XJ in conditions where grip is compromised,” the automaker said in a launch statement.
North America, Russia, China and continental Europe will account for the majority of sales for the new models which will all have the supercharged petrol V6.
Brand head Adrian Hallmark said: “Jaguar has revitalised its core range and is now undertaking an intensive programme of introducing new models, strategic powertrain and technologies to reinvigorate the brand around the world.
“The new AWD products are another example of how we are taking the Jaguar business forward by thinking globally and targeting specific market opportunities by addressing specific regional requirements.”
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By GlobalDataThe US is the world’s leading market for AWD sales and initially over 75% of the AWD models produced at the automaker’s Castle Bromwich factory in the UK from October 2012 will be sold there.
With the new additions, Jaguar will compete in about 80% of the luxury saloon market, four times its previous opportunity.
With AWD accounting for under 5% of UK luxury sales market, the option will not be offered in Jaguar’s home market.
The XJ 3.0 AWD will have its global debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on 19 August, while the XF 3.0 AWD will have its world premiere on 29 August at the Moscow motor show’s media day.
