Jaguar X-TYPE Sportwagon to be Sold in North America

By: Ellen Akins | Ford Communications Network

The new Jaguar X-TYPE 3.0 Sportwagon targets a new generation of sportwagon buyers. DEARBORN, Mich., September 3, 2004 -- Come November, Jaguar customers will be able to choose from a third Jaguar X-TYPE model, a new sportwagon. Jaguar’s first ever production wagon, the X-TYPE 3.0 Sportwagon, targets a new generation of sportwagon buyers who base their purchase decisions primarily on style, versatility and driving dynamics. The X-TYPE 3.0 Sportwagon gives consumers a blend of functionality, style and performance to accommodate their active lifestyles without compromising their desire for sophistication. From family ski trips in Aspen to wine buying trips in Napa Valley, owners will have all the cargo area versatility and space to meet their needs.

"The sportwagon segment is new territory to Jaguar,” explained CJ O’Donnell, executive vice president, Sales, Marketing and Communications, Jaguar North America. “It's clear that the translation of Jaguar's design language into this format works brilliantly.”

The cargo area of the Sportwagon is the key point of differentiation from the rest of the X-TYPE range. To keep luggage securely in place and hidden from view, there’s a retractable cover, which rolls out over the load area. Items can also be specified by attaching the standard cargo net to the roof lining to prevent smaller items like grocery bags from spilling their contents. Larger items can be secured by tie-down straps that hook onto the four strong D-rings incorporated in the luggage area floor. For added security, a large, molded tray below the rear floor contains two deep storage sections and is accessed by lifting the trunk floor on its hinges. This hidden compartment also incorporates a 12-volt power output socket, making it perfect for charging a laptop computer or digital camera while being discreetly concealed.

In addition to the X-TYPE Sportwagon, the X-TYPE 3.0 V6 Sport with aggressive-looking body styling and 18-inch wheels will go on sale in November. On the outside, fixed silver roof rails are fitted as standard, and a range of additional carrying systems will be available, from ski clamps to roof boxes, so buyers can select a system that works best for their individual needs.

Jaguar currently sells the X-TYPE Estate in Europe and Canada. The company hopes its success with the vehicle there will translate to share of the sportwagon segment in the United States.

"When we looked at the global market for sportwagons, we saw great opportunity in Europe and having done our research here we believe the Sportwagon will be an excellent new edition to the X-TYPE lineup in the U.S. market," said James Thomas, communications director, Jaguar North America.

In addition to the X-TYPE Sportwagon, two other X-TYPE models will debut in 2004. A new X-TYPE 3.0 V6 Sport with aggressive-looking body styling and 18-inch wheels will go on sale in November, and a luxurious X-TYPE 3.0 V6 VDP Edition will go on sale in October with burl walnut veneer and contrasting piping on leather seating surfaces.