This is understood to be the first picture of Jaguar’s new SUV in testing.
As revealed this week, a concept version of the SUV is due to be seen at the Frankfurt motor show next month before going into production in 2016.
The test mule sports Jaguar’s typical camouflage for its prototypes, as well as the firm’s signature rear tail-light design. It is possible to make out the rakish roofline and sloping tailgate of the mule, backing up insider reports that Jaguar is aiming to make its SUV the most coupé-like and sportiest-looking in the segment.
Sources who have seen the vehicle at customer clinics describe it as “stunning”.
The estimated £31,000 model will be natively rear-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive optional. It will be based on a smaller version of Jaguar Land Rover’s new Premium Lightweight Architecture, which underpins the latest Range Rover and Range Rover Sport in its longer form.
Autocar reader Dominic Moss spied the mule in Warwickshire, and his description of the engine note suggests the mule might have been powered by one of JLR’s new turbocharged four-cylinder ‘Hotfire’ petrol engines. Diesel Hotfires will also be offered, alongside petrol and diesel V6s.
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