Jaguar Land Rover wins two awards at 2011 Middle East Motor Awards

Luxury automotive manufacturer Jaguar Land Rover MENAP has once again showcased its brand strength and product leadership within the region by winning two of the most important and prestigious auto awards at the Middle East Motor Awards, held at Expo Centre Sharjah, UAE in early November.

The MEMA for the 'Best Luxury SUV' was awarded to Range Rover for the second year in a row, beating off fierce competition with the Porsche Cayenne and BMW X5. Jaguar scooped the award for the XJ in the 'Best Luxury Car' category, competing with the Audi A8 and Mercedes S class.

Official Patron of the MEMAs, Mr. Mohammad Ben Sulayem, presented the award to Jean Atik, Marketing Manager, Land Rover MENAP, who commented, "We are very proud to have received this award for the flagship and most luxurious SUV on our fleet, which is recognized by such an esteemed body as the Middle East Motor Awards. This award demonstrates our brand appreciation across the region and our efforts in building the ultimate vehicle that combines the ultimate in off-road capability with unparalleled luxury."

The Range Rover's 5.0-litre, 510bhp supercharged and 375bhp naturally aspirated LR-V8s deliver supreme performance and economy. Equipped with the latest direct fuel injection systems, these lightweight engines combine benchmark efficiency with outstanding levels of power and torque delivered from low down the rev range. 0-100kph is reached in the naturally aspirated car in just 7.6 seconds while for those who want the last word in performance, the supercharged V8 will rush to 100kph in a mere 6.2 seconds.



Justin Weaving, Sales Director, Jaguar MENAP, who received the award for the Jaguar XJ in the 'Best Luxury Car' category said, "This award for our flagship Jaguar XJ proves our commitment not only to design, innovation, and performance but also to the region, where the vehicle has received widespread appreciation and prestigious awards. The redesigned Jaguar XJ has already won over 20 international awards and generated rave reviews, and we are extremely honored to have been recognized by the MEMA in the luxury car segment."

The Jaguar XJ is truly a product of the 21^st century and is the clearest indication yet of the singular sense of purpose behind Design Director Ian Callum's vision for the future of Jaguar. The XJ benefits from the most advanced, powerful and efficient Jaguar powertrains ever. Powered by the 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 and 5.0-litre supercharged V8, the Jaguar XJ comprises of 470 and 510 horsepower versions of the supercharged engine.

Source: Zawya

Tata Manza November offer: base petrol variant for Rs 4.99 lakh!

Tata Manza Front angle

It is that time of the year when car makers come out with attractive offers on their products. This week we’ve already seen India’s premier auto maker- Maruti Suzuki announce discounts on multiple models. Ford too is offering huge discounts on the slow moving stocks of the new Fiesta. Auto makers have had a terrible time in the past couple of months. Most have failed to attain their expected sales target during the festive season and with just two months remaining this will be their final pitch to improve their overall sales numbers of the year 2011. Tata Motors has now launched a discount offer on the Tata Manza sedan which is only valid till November 30th.

The base petrol Manza Aqua is now available at Rs. 4, 99,053/- which Rs. 32,000 lower than the original ex-showroom price. The basic diesel variant which was priced at Rs. 6,07,130/- will now cost Rs. 5,73,130 which amounts to Rs. 34,000 savings on the ex-showroom price. Car makers had predicted a slow down in the second half of this year but even the festive rush was not enough to boost sales. Rising fuel prices and the hike in interest rates have been the main drivers of this slow down. In a last ditch attempt to revive sales, Tata Motors is now offering Rs. 32,000 off on petrol versions of the Manza and Rs. 34,000 discount on the diesel version of the sedan.

Tata Manza Side View

The Tata Manza Aura Diesel with ABS which cost Rs. 6,91,505/- is now offered at an ex-showroom price of Rs. 6,57,505/- The top-of-the-line Elan vriant of the Manza diesel now costs Rs. 7,19,191/- compared to Rs. 7,53,191/- which was the ex-showroom price of the car before the offer. The year 2011 has been a topsy-turvy one for a few manufacturers. Maruti Suzuki has had its fair share of misfortunes and so have the Japanese car makers- Toyota and Honda. Nissan too is now offering free insurance and accessories worth Rs. 25,000 on the Sunny sedan.

(All prices are ex-showroom Pune) 

Source: ICB

Tata Brings AC Buses for Commuters in Bangladesh

Indian Tata Motors yesterday launched its low-floor air-conditioned bus in Bangladesh to attract city bus service providers.

India's largest automobile company said it wants to market 300 AC buses, especially among the bus service providers in Dhaka.

This was disclosed at a programme at Ruposhi Bangla Hotel organised by Tata Motor's distributor in Bangladesh Nitol Motors Ltd.

Tata Motors Managing Director PM Telang said Tata wants to bring in manufacturing facility in Bangladesh.

The price of each AC bus will be Tk 85 lakh to Tk 1.15 crore, said Abdul Musabbir Ahmad, managing director of Nitol-Niloy Group.

Source:The Daily Star

Evoque named Best Luxury Compact Utility 2011 by Auto123.com

The Range Rover Evoque, the lightest, most fuel-efficient Range Rover ever produced was today announced the Best Luxury Compact Utility by the jury of automotive journalists leading automotive web portal, Auto123.com.

The award, in its third year, created to help consumers in the increasingly complex process of buying a new vehicle, and to highlight the best vehicles from the 2012 model year sold in Canada.

Priced starting at $46,995, the all-new Range Rover Evoque stays true to the core values of Range Rover; providing premium levels of craftsmanship, luxury, performance and Land Rover multi-terrain capability while embodied in a more compact package. The Range Rover Evoque also sends a message that the company is serious about sustainability and determined to deliver vehicles that are both relevant and highly desirable.

"This is an exciting vehicle for the Canadian market and we are thrilled the members of Auto123.com agree with us that it is a winner," said Lindsay Duffield, President of Jaguar Land Rover Canada. "We believe many Canadians who had not considered Land Rover before will want all that Range Rover Evoque offers."

The Range Rover Evoque will be available in two versions: a coupe model, which precisely mirrors the LRX concept design, and a five-door. The coupe and five-door are identical in overall length and width; however, the five-door has a 1.18-inch higher rear roofline.



The all-new Range Rover Evoque is designed and engineered to provide customers with the same comprehensive range of premium technologies they expect from a Range Rover vehicle, delivered in a more compact package. The broad array of Range Rover equipment comprises the latest technologies for controls, connectivity, comfort and convenience, including new high-end Meridian audio system and is powered by a new turbo charged 2.0-litre Si4 engine with direct fuel injection and twin variable valve timing generates 240 horsepower, as well as full-time intelligent all-wheel drive.

Built in the United Kingdom, and sold in 160 markets worldwide, the Range Rover Evoque will be manufactured in the UK, at Land Rover's multi-award winning Halewood plant in Merseyside.

Source:News Wire Canada

Jaguar XF Sportbrake (Estate, Wagon) scooped

2012 Jaguar XF Estate (Sportbrake)

Here's our first glimpse of Jaguar's second-ever estate car - the new 2012 Jag XF Sportbrake.

The Sportbrake name has been confirmed today, as our spies caught the XF estate on the roads testing around Jaguar's Coventry R&D base.

Jaguar XF Sportbrake: the estate spyshots

A wagon derivative of the XF was not in the original plan conceived on Ford's watch, so the product planners have had a considerable task to convert the four-door saloon into an executive estate.

These photos confirm that the XF estate is little longer than the saloon, yet bootspace is said to approach an Audi A6's. The Avant's loadbay is 565 litres.

Expect the usual fold-down rear seats, more rear headroom and executive toys such as electric boot operation.

2012 Jaguar XF Sportbrake

More on Jaguar's XF estate

Underneath that slab-sided zebra disguise lies a trad XF style. It's only different from the B-pillars backwards, and our design sources suggest there's a sporty side glasshouse with a coupe graphic to counter the slightly taller roofline.

Peel away the disguise and you'll find what's bound to become the most-talked-about aspect of the new XF Sportbrake: a black stylised wraparound rear pillar.

2012 Jaguar XF Sportbrake

What, like the XJ's bling-around black D-pillar?

Exactly. As revealed by CAR's artist's impression of the XF estate, it will echo the rear styling of the Jaguar XJ - it's a polycarbonate cover, a bit like on the Mini's A-pillars.

Expect to see the new Jaguar XF Sportbrake estate on sale later in 2012, when it will rival the BMW 5-series Touring, Audi A6 Avant and Mercedes E-class estate.



More images:

Source: Car Magazine

Rumor: Tata Nano Diesel coming to the upcoming 2012 Indian Auto Expo!

Tata is a brand that usually showcases its new products at the Auto Expo, going on to launch them somewhere in the latter half of the year, around September-October. From the chatter that was floating around amongst us otoring journos, many shared the view that the Tata Nano Diesel could be showcased at the upcoming Auto Expo.

Over the past couple of days, even the mainstream print media seems to think that Tata would unveil the Tata Nano Diesel at the exposition. So, there indeed could be some basis to these rumors although Tata Motors for its part continues to remain as mum as ever, as it has always been about its future launches. That said, the Nano Diesel is what the Nano franchise desperately needs to salvage the scene at the hustings.

The Nano, although a very competent car suffers from a dowdy image making it a no-go for many folks buying their first car. The Nano Diesel however could be a game changer in the fact that it would be powered by diesel, a fuel that is much cheaper than petrol currently. This would make the Nano Diesel a terrific value proposition even if Tata manages to price it around 50,000 rupees more than the petrol version.

With the latest versions of petrol Nano small car selling with ARAI certified mileage figures of 25 Kmpl, we wouldn’t be too surprised if the Diesel Nano is good enough for 30-35 Kmpl. At that mileage figure, the Tata Nano could finally become a compelling alternative to folks riding about on economuters like Splendors and Passions of this world, the target market that the Nano was originally intended for.

Source: ICB

Jaguar’s growth drives supply chain boom in West Midlands

At a factory on a Birmingham industrial estate, security tape marks the spot where a 1,000-tonne metal press is due to be installed – and just possibly the beginning of a carmaking revival in the West Midlands.



The equipment, bought second hand from Spain, will be one of the UK’s largest presses – machines that use tools and dyes to mould flat steel into car parts.

It is part of a £7m investment by Sertec, a West Midlands automotive components maker. The family-owned company is busy positioning itself to supply Jaguar Land Rover, the fast-growing UK carmaker, which last week announced it was hiring another 1,000 people at its Solihull assembly plant.

Thanks in large part to JLR and the rapid growth of its sales to China, the UK’s Midlands region is enjoying a sharp revival in automotive activity, and hundreds of small and medium-sized component makers, which comprise the so-called “supply chain”, are also looking to benefit.

Lord Kumar Bhattacharyya, the entrepreneur academic who acts as adviser to Ratan Tata, head of Tata Motors, which bought JLR from Ford in June 2008, tells the Financial Times: “In five to 10 years time you will see a lot of small specialist companies setting up because of the pull of JLR. This is the best news story in the West Midlands for years.”

The past three decades has seen capacity in the supply chain shrink, capital equipment scrapped or sold abroad, and huge job losses.

Professor David Bailey, an automotive expert at Coventry University, says: “In the 1970s, a third of all jobs in Birmingham were in auto. In the 1980s we lost 200,000 jobs. But what’s left is in pretty good shape.”

Grant Adams, Sertec’s managing director, says the company has only survived because it was ready to cut its wage bill and let workers go.

“We reacted very quickly and the bank appreciated that and we kept them up to speed. I let a third of the workforce go. It was tough times. It was like putting the brakes on a juggernaut, but we almost did an emergency stop.”

He estimates the Midlands has lost 40 per cent of its press shop capacity since 2009, with the number of companies reduced from 12 to five.



Car makers that survived had little choice but to buy from foreign component suppliers. “It varies from model to model,” says John Leech, automotive partner at KPMG, the professional services company. “But British content today can be as little as 20 per cent. This is a real opportunity to reverse that trend.”

However, industry experts worry that JLR’s own recruitment drive could make it difficult for smaller companies in the supply chain to retain skills just as they are looking to ramp up production.

Rachel Eade, of Manufacturing Advisory Service, a body funded by the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills that helps those in the supply chain, says several billion pounds of contracts have already been placed with West Midlands firms. But she fears there is “more demand than our supply chain can currently supply”.

Mr Adams, who started his career as an apprentice at British Leyland, concedes Sertec will not be able to match the wages JLR pays.

“Logic tells you that JLR will pay the better money and they will get the better people and that is no different to how it’s always been,” says the 50-year-old businessman. “The only problem now though is the pool of labour that we’re all looking at has condensed somewhat.”

But Denis Meagher, managing director of Premier Group, a Coventry-based company making prototype body parts for JLR and other companies, says it is not just a local problem. He has also lost key employees to rival companies in continental Europe. “Even on the shopfloor the industry is now seeing skilled sheet metal workers going self-employed so they can take work abroad,” he says.

For Sertec and Premier Group, the decision to stick with their apprentice programmes – even during the downturn – will provide some relief.

Sertec is also addressing the issue by acquisition. Its Tyseley factory – one of four facilities it runs in the region – was only acquired in August, a direct response to JLR’s own investment announcements.

“We’ve just blown our next two years of capital expenditure,” says Mr Adams. “But if we hadn’t done this deal and this capacity had gone outside the UK, we’d have all been kicking ourselves. We’ve retained the jobs and we’ve retained the business. That business didn’t go abroad, that equipment didn’t go abroad and importantly those jobs didn’t go outside the industry.”

Source: Financial Times

Tata Names Cyrus Mistry as Ratan Tata's Successor

Cyrus P. Mistry, deputy chairman of Tata Sons Ltd.

Tata Sons Ltd. said board member Cyrus P. Mistry will succeed Ratan Tata as chairman next year, a surprise choice that ends more than a year of speculation over who would run India’s biggest business group.

Cyrus Mistry, 43, whose family is the single biggest shareholder of the group will assume the role of deputy chairman and take over as head of the group in December 2012, according to an e-mailed statement from the company yesterday. Tata in August 2010 set up a five-member panel to find a successor to Ratan, who will retire after two decades running the Mumbai-based company.

In Mistry, Tata has picked an insider who belongs to the same Parsi community as the founders and whose family owns 18 percent of the group holding company. Mistry, largely unknown outside his father’s construction business, will have a year to boost his profile under the guidance of Ratan Tata, the architect of the group’s emergence as a global company through his acquisitions of Corus Group and Jaguar Land Rover.

Billionaire Father

Mistry, an engineer from the Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine in London, began working for the company Shapoorji Pallonji & Co., controlled by his father, billionaire Shapoorji Pallonji Mistry, in 1991. Cyrus did his masters in management from the London Business School.

“I am aware that an enormous responsibility, with a great legacy, has been entrusted to me,” Mistry said in an e-mailed statement yesterday. Mistry declined to comment for this report, according to spokesman Ray.

Tata makes cars from the $73,700 Jaguar XJ to the $2,800 Nano, produces steel, salt and grows tea served at the Tata-owned Boston Ritz Carlton. The group accounts for almost 5 percent of India’s gross domestic product.

‘End to Uncertainty’

“One of the main decisions they will have to communicate to the market is if they want to keep growing by buying other businesses,” said Walter Rossini, who helps manage 200 million euros ($267 million) in Indian equities at Aletti Gestielle SGR SpA. “I think they will focus more on efficiency and productivity.”

The Tata group has more than 100 operating companies with 31 listed on the Indian stock exchanges with total revenue of $83.3 billion in the year ended March 31, 2011, according to its website. Overseas revenue accounted for 58 percent of total, or $48.3 billion. The group companies together employ more than 425,000 people.

“I have been impressed with the quality and caliber of his participation, his astute observations and his humility,” Ratan Tata said about Mistry in the statement. “I will be committed to working with him over the next year to give him the exposure, the involvement and the operating experience to equip him to undertake the full responsibility of the group on my retirement.”

Ratan Tata’s step-brother Noel was among the likely candidates to take over as chairman, the Economic Times reported on Nov. 11.

‘Jury Still Out’

“Obviously the jury is still very much out,” on Mistry’s abilities, said Andrea Goldstein, who studied the Tata Group as a senior economist at the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development in Paris. “He’s very young, which could be very good - so he’s being groomed to take this position. Let’s see if he’s ready to do that.”

Mistry and the Tatas follow the Zoroastrian religion and belong to the small Parsi community, which originated in Persia and found sanctuary centuries ago in India. The Tata group was founded by Ratan’s great grandfather Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata, who started a textile-trading business in 1868 and then built the country’s first steel mill and hydroelectric plant. He also built The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower hotel in Mumbai, which was damaged in the November 2008 terrorist attacks.

Ratan made his first purchase overseas in February 2000 when he paid $407 million for U.K.-based Tetley Group - the biggest by an Indian company at that time. He followed with 65 more mergers or purchases in India and abroad, totaling more than $20 billion, the most by any Indian group, according to the group’s website.

Mistry will be the second person outside the Tatas to lead the group, according to the company’s website.

“I have known him since he was a baby,” Parmeshwar Godrej, a board member of Godrej Properties Ltd. and wife of billionaire Adi Godrej, said in a phone interview yesterday. “The whole family is very shy and reserved. I’m sure he will do a great job.”

Source: Bloomberg

Jaguar Land Rover's RANGE_E Crowned SMMT 2011’S Best Automotive Innovation

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has won SMMT’s 2011 Award for Automotive Innovation for its prototype Range_e – the world’s first luxury Plug-in Hybrid Electric 4×4 with integrated V6 diesel engine.

Land Rover Range_e Concept

The award, sponsored by GKN Driveline, was presented to JLR’s Chief Engineer, Hybrids, Peter Richings at SMMT’s Annual Dinner by Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport, Norman Baker and Rob Rickell, Global Engineering Director, GKN.

The Range_e beat off stiff competition from companies across the car, commercial vehicle and supply chain sectors to win SMMT’s second annual award designed to showcase the importance of R&D and the role the UK plays in developing global automotive products.

Commenting on the announcement, Paul Everitt, SMMT Chief Executive and chair of the five-strong judging panel said, “JLR has engineered and manufactured a highly-efficient and technologically advanced prototype vehicle that clearly demonstrates industry’s commitment to lowering vehicle emissions and creating exciting products for demanding consumers. This award champions industry innovation – promoting cutting-edge automotive engineering and design that the UK is famed for around the world.”

Receiving the Award, Peter Richings, Chief Engineer, Hybrids, JLR said, “Innovation and technology are the lifeblood of our business and we are delighted that our work has earned this recognition from our industry peers. Range_e demonstrates the advances we are making in cleaner and more fuel-efficient performance without compromising the performance and all-wheel-drive capabilities that are at the heart of our brand and we look forward to bringing its benefits to the market in the near future. The award for the Range_e project is testament to the range of skills, excellence and enthusiasm of not just our own engineers and designers, but the people in the research and academic organisations in the UK that have supported them.”



Sponsor of this year’s Award, GKN Driveline’s Engineering Director, Rob Rickell said, “GKN Driveline is once again proud to sponsor the award. As a UK company, we recognise that research and development of technology will result in innovative solutions satisfying our society’s demanding and ever evolving needs. By doing this successfully, we and others will have a positive impact on the environment, the communities and the economies in which we all operate. The finalists tonight demonstrate fine examples of developments that embody that spirit.”

The Range_e, which was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show this year, impressed judges with its four different modes of operation, ability to deliver emissions of 89g/km CO₂ and driving range of more than 20 miles in a pure EV mode.

On presenting the Award, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport, Norman Baker, spoke about the importance of recognising innovation within the UK’s automotive sector, adding that a collaborative approach across the commercial, business and government sectors was essential in encouraging new technologies and products to market.

This year’s Award was judged by a panel of senior industry figures, including Dave Salt, Chief Engineer, GKN Driveline, Ralph Hosier, Engineer and Motoring Journalist and Jon Beasley, Group Technology Officer,GKN. UK engineering of the Range_e has been undertaken at JLR’s Gaydon engineering site and UK fleet trials began in December 2010. Earlier this year, Land Rover announced its plans to launch the first diesel-electric hybrid in 2013.

Source: 3D Car Shows

Euro NCAP Crash Tested: Range Rover Evoque and Jaguar XF

Range Rover Evoque after Euro NCAP Crash Test

Euro NCAP, the recognised industry safety body, has crash tested some of 2011’s biggest newcomers, including the Range Rover Evoqueand Jaguar XF!

The Evoque is proving to be a star model, with high demand and a long waiting list. Its five-star crash performance will help cement its popularity with customers. It received 86 per cent for adult occupant protection, 75 per cent for child protection and 41 per cent for pedestrian safety.

Less impressive was the latest Jaguar XF, which could only match the four-star score of the outgoing version, despite its size and a starting price of £30,950. It scored 79 and 73 per cent for adult and child protection respectively. Chest and rear impact (whiplash) protection were classed as marginal. It did post a high score for pedestrian safety, however, with a score of 62 per cent.

The XF isn’t a new model, of course, but was recently updated. The bodywork modifications required for the update necessitated certain parts of the test being retaken, but the new results still weren’t enough to raise the Jag’s rating to top marks.

Jaguar Land Rover at 2011 Guangzhou Auto Show

Jaguar XF (Left) and Jaguar XJ at 2011 Guangzhou Auto Show

Among the shiny nameplates that brought their latest and best products to allure local customers is British luxury car manufacturer Jaguar.

Jaguar reported a 91 percent surge in China sales in the first 10 months this year as it delivered 4,400 cars. As a niche brand, those four digits already make China its third-biggest market globally after the US and the UK.

But the company's management is not satisfied - they aim for long-term, sustainable growth in the lucrative market.

In the view of Anthony Bradbury, the newly appointed executive vice-president of Jaguar China, the auto legend has great products, so the imperative now is to develop broader brand awareness in the country.

An Oxford University graduate with major in music - yet fascinated by the car business - Bradbury joined Jaguar Land Rover in 1998 and has led in several key projects in marketing and communications. He stepped up to the new position in China just five months ago.

"We are still not as well-known as some of our competitors," he said. "That's why one of my priorities is to work on building the brand."

"What we find is when people know enough about Jaguar, when they come to our showroom, see our cars, sit in them, touch and feel the luxury, drive them, they will often buy. But not enough people yet know about Jaguar.

"This is probably the biggest challenge," Bradbury said, noting that the company will continue to build awareness of the brand so luxury consumers put Jaguar on their shopping list.

In an effort to take the "authentic British brand" to more Chinese cities and closer to local customers, the company has been working hard in expanding dealerships, mostly in big and medium-sized cities.

Together with Land Rover, Jaguar now has about 80 dealer outlets in China, and the figure is about to exceed 100 as the contract for its 100th dealership in the country was signed recently.

Bradbury said that in the southern market alone, Jaguar's dealerships will grow by 50 percent in fiscal year 2011 that ends in March 2012.



Tailored model  

In addition to dealership expansion, tailored models are also driving sales in China, Bradbury said.

The company currently imports the XF mid-sized executive sedan, the XJ full-sized saloon and the XKR high-performance sports car to China.

The XF contributed the biggest sales until April this year, when Jaguar launched the new XJ equipped with a 3-liter engine at Shanghai auto show. Previously the XJ was only available in China with a 5-liter power plant.

"That is a car that started our tailored-for-China product strategy," Bradbury said. "It has an engine and suspension that are tuned and refined to carefully match Chinese consumer requirements."

Sales of the 3.0-liter XJ jumped from the start. The company now sells almost the same numbers of XF and XJ models in China - a unique market structure for Jaguar worldwide.

"Probably at the end of this year we will be the biggest market for the XJ," Bradbury said.

That statement carried an element of uncertainty, but he said he is entirely sure that "China will be the most important market for the XJ in the long term and the model will be the heart of the Jaguar brand in China".

Fewer XKR sports cars are sold in the country in comparison to the XF and XJ, as the luxury car market in China is still dominated by sedans and the sports car segment remains underdeveloped.

Still, sales of the model have quadrupled so far this year over the same period in 2010, according to Bradbury.

Bradbury said that as roads continue to improve and people have more understanding of sports cars, the models will become more popular in China.

The company has taken initiative to hold city tours and track days across the country to promote sports car culture and gather more fans.

Front of the queue

In company discussions about product allocation, China is always at the front of the queue, Bradbury said. "We understand how important supporting China is as a sign of our long-term investment here."

Despite increasing competition, he is convinced that Jaguar is well placed to ride the strong growth in China's luxury car market, which continues to outpace the overall market.

Bradbury said his confidence in the brand comes from its unique nature. "We are not a me-too brand - we are a brand with rich British heritage, with an understated style, with elegance and nobility."

"We'd like to say at Jaguar that we are a breed apart," Bradbury said, noting the importance of maintaining its differentiation in the marketplace.

"Hopefully this more individual positioning will give us a strength. So as the market become more competitive, we will always stand to be something that is a little bit different, a little bit more desirable."

But Bradbury declined to give a sales target for the brand in China next year. "We tend to not discuss future sales targets only because if you do, whatever the number, it won't be precisely right."

"We want to continue to grow," he went on to say, "but it is not just about selling more cars, it is really important that we grow in a way that is sustainable and ensure the right infrastructure is in place to serve customers."

Source: China Daily

Jaguar Land Rover targets faster growth, lead in luxury cars in India

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) aims to grow its sales at double the pace of rivals BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi in India. The Tata-owned British car maker aims to capture 20 per cent of the luxury car market over the next few years aiming for leadership in the segments that it is present in with models such as light, more fuel-efficient Range Rover Evoque and the locally assembled Freelander 2 SUV.



“Our growth rates are twice the competition and the segments that we are in are showing good potential. We aim to be market leaders in the segment we are in with an overall market share of 20 per cent,” said Rohit Suri, head (premier car division), Tata Motors.

The luxury car market, defined as cars priced above Rs 25 lakh, has grown at almost 70-80 per cent so far this year buoyed by new models such as the BMW X1 sports activity vehicle (SAV) and a new improved Mercedes-Benz C-Class entry-level saloon. Considering around 100 per cent growth, JLR sales in India are expected to cross 1,800 units in 2011-12. JLR sales expanded 268 per cent in 2010-11 at 891 cars, compared with 242 cars it sold in its first year of operations in 2009-10. BMW is the leading luxury car maker in the country with a market share of over 30 per cent, closely followed by Mercedes-Benz and Audi. The luxury car market stood at over 16,000 units in 2010 compared with about 9,000 units in 2009. BMW India sold 7,079 cars in 2010, while Mercedes-Benz notched up 6,670 and third-ranked Audi sold 3,982 cars. Swedish automaker Volvo stood far behind with sales of a few hundred units last year.

JLR plans to assemble more models in India, apart from the Land Rover model Freelander 2 that the company said has received good response. “We are evaluating assembling more models in India including Jaguar cars,” Suri said. The Freelander 2 is being assembled in Pune, Maharashtra since May this year with a lower price tag of Rs 33.89 lakh, just above entry-level luxury sedans of BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi.



Evoque, launched last week at Rs 43.83 lakh, is the smallest Range Rover model, and has received orders that have surpassed the company’s initial response expectations. “It’s a challenge to supply the model as per demand. The Evoque is on a three month waiting list for both the diesel and petrol variants,” said Gurmeet Singh Anand, MD of AMP Motors that operates three JLR dealerships in India. JLR will open a new dealership in Gurgaon, an emerging corporate hub near Delhi in 2012. Anand said that the buyers for Evoque included a mix of youth, CEOs and ladies. Though JLR refused to share any sales numbers for the ongoing year, it claims to have been selling more Range Rover SUVs than Jaguar sedans.

Source: My Digital FC

Tata Magic Iris CNG with facelift scooped

Barely six months have elapsed after Tata Motors launched the Magic Iris passenger carrier and the Ace Zip mini pick up, and here we are, already staring at a possible facelift of the Tata Magic Iris, which could be a result of the market feedback that Tata Motors has garnered over the past half year or so. Our roving eye in the sky, EarthFusion has just managed to snap up a facelifted CNG powered Magic Iris doing the testing rounds!

The Tata Magic Iris passenger carrier, intended to be a people mover that could replace the ubiquitous autorickshaws in urban and rural India, has been doing decent numbers for Tata Motors, along with its load carrying sibling, the Ace Zip. This said, the Tata Magic Iris came with cloth/flexible plastic based rear windows and rear windshield. Tata Motors seems to have recognized that the cloth/flexible plastic based windows and rear windshield might not work very well in inclement weather.

Thus, we have a glass window at the rear and the rear windshield too is now a glass item, a-la-Tata Nano. Also, both the middle windows and the rear window seem to have become bigger than before, a move perhaps to make the Magic Iris more airy. These two features might be what the next facelift of the Magic Iris could get and along with that, a CNG heart is also in the offing,.

The CNG engine for the Magic Iris might help this little people mover find a ready market in urban India’s big metros where CNG penetration is steadily picking up. So, the pesky autorickshaws might after all get replaced by something that is equally compact and maneuverable while also being much more safer and non polluting with CNG as the fuel option of choice.

Source: Indian Cars Bikes

Review: 2012 Land Rover Defender

2012 Land Rover Defender - Front View

Ladies and gentlemen, last orders! After more than half a century as the world’s chosen workhorse, the Land Rover Defender has finally reached its twilight years. It might have followed today’s common downsizing principles, but does that make it the best Defender ever?

Here’s a question: what do the Defender and the Porsche 911 have in common? Well, for starters, both have been in production for several decades, and both have a distinctive image recognised around the world. Not to mention the fact that Porsche has also had four-wheel drive for many years now. But the crux of this exercise lies in how many of the cars built are still in service, despite their advancing years: around 75 per cent of all the Defenders ever built are still in action, and the 911 can boast something similar. Both vehicles can also claim an extremely high residual value.

The word ‘icon’ is bandied about a little too often these days, but in the Defender we have a true embodiment of the word, even without taking the aforementioned facts into account. And up in the Scottish Borders near the city of Edinburgh, the Defender’s capabilities speak for themselves. Guiding it through a river bed and then parking it on a 40-degree slope – a feat which would swiftly illustrate the shortcomings of modern pretenders – is merely a warm-up for the no-nonsense Landie.

2012 Land Rover Defender - Rear View

But, while there are few physical objects that will bring the Defender to a standstill, 2015 will see the warhorse paralysed by government legislation – after nearly 7 decades of service. While the new diesel engine allows the staple Land Rover to limbo-dance under the 2015 emissions threshold, its inability to conform to forthcoming pedestrian impact laws means that its reign will finally come to end. Although Land Rover is reportedly hoping for a temporary exemption to the law, work on its replacement has begun, previewed by the DC100 concept shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show. In the meantime, though, the company has given the existing model a comprehensive overhaul.


The EU5- and EU6-compliant diesel engine’s capacity has been reduced by 200cc, yet the 2.2-litre unit still provides the same 120bhp and 266lb ft as the EU4 engine – and also ups the top speed from 82mph to 90mph, so be prepared to buckle up. The emissions reductions are down to a new diesel particulate filter, and a new engine cover makes a noticeable difference inside the cabin: it is part of a noise insulation upgrade which almost mutes the diesel engine, eliminating the characteristic valve-patter of the previous generations’ powerplants. In fact, it’s almost too quiet; the under-bonnet humming of a warmed-up Defender engine used to seem like a signal that the rugged off-roader was ready to help you conquer the world.

And so we float our way across the rain-soaked estate belonging to the Duke of Roxburghe, an environment where the Defender is in its element. With the proper speed and torque applied, it really can traverse any terrain which the headlights bathe in their glow: mud, rivers, and seemingly impossible inclines are all dealt with by the Defender’s bravado – and occasionally, the optional winch. The Landie will stand up to this punishment in the long run as well, for the frame has been treated with a new multi-stage coating for increased corrosion protection.

On the road, the car’s refined side is displayed. The six-speed gearbox requires a much less ‘manly’ action to perform a cog-swap, and you can cruise at 70mph while talking about the best Scotch whisky as if you were in front of a log fire in Edinburgh Castle. A revised dashboard houses better heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems, and seats have been improved – from where the main exterior change is also visible: a revised bonnet.

So, the upgraded Defender ultimately builds on its obvious strengths while addressing some of its decades-old weaknesses. Its durability is clearly still apparent, with our test drive only pausing for a puncture. And given the likelihood that this actual vehicle will still be on the roads in 70 years’ time, the much-improved swansong is looking like a more attractive offer than ever, with prices starting at just over £20,000. Long live the king of off-roading.

Source: Classic Driver

All-New Range Rover Evoque Wins Automobile Magazine 2012 All-Star Award

Land Rover is proud to announce that the all-new 2012 Range Rover Evoque is an AUTOMOBILE Magazine 2012 All-Star adding to the newest Range Rover model's growing list of accolades.



"We're excited to have the 2012 Range Rover Evoque be named an All-Star by AUTOMOBILE Magazine," said Andy Goss, President, Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC. "To receive the AUTOMOBILE Magazine honour and other recent SUV of the Year accolades demonstrates that the world is in fact ready for a smaller, more fuel efficient, luxury SUV."

"Easily the best work credited to designer Gerry McGovern's studio, the Range Rover Evoque is first and foremost a design triumph. The company has demonstrated an uncanny ability to find increasingly small and sometimes tiny holes in the market and fill them with capable off-road vehicles whose style expertly complements their serious substance."
- AUTOMOBILE Magazine contributing writer and columnist Jamie Kitman.

The prestigious All-Star awards recognize 10 vehicles chosen annually by the editorial staff of AUTOMOBILE Magazine.

The 2012 Range Rover Evoque is the smallest, lightest, most fuel efficient Range Rover ever produced. The vehicle stays true to the core values of Range Rover, providing premium levels of craftsmanship, luxury, performance and Land Rover multi-terrain capability while embodied in a more compact package. The Range Rover Evoque 4WD achieves 5.7 l/100km (2WD 4.9 l/100km) and sends a message that the company is serious about sustainability and determined to deliver vehicles that are both relevant and highly desirable.

Jaguar To Introduce AWD, New Powertrains

Jaguar XF

Just the Facts:

• A range of new powertrains is to debut "within two years."
• Jaguar will move away from being a "V8 brand."
• Jaguar is testing prototypes of XF and XJ models with four-wheel drive.

LOS ANGELES — Jaguar is developing four-wheel drive for the XF and XJ sedans and a new range of powertrains as it seeks to increase its footprint in the U.S. market.

"We are seen as a V8 brand in the U.S.," says Global Brand Director Adrian Hallmark, "but the U.S. is downsizing and we need to respond. Within the next two years we will have new engines, V6s and smaller."

The British company is known to be targeting smaller, four-cylinder turbo engines as it begins work on a successor to the unloved X-Type. Sister company Land Rover already offers a Ford-sourced 2.0-liter turbo in the new Range Rover Evoque. The introduction of diesel engines in the U.S. also remains a strong possibly. Two eco-driving experts recently drove a U.K.-spec XF 2.2 diesel 2,884 miles across the U.S., averaging 55.8 mpg for a PR stunt.

Hybrid powertrains are also in development for both Jaguar and Land Rover products, but Hallmark says this is not a key priority. "They are a very expensive solution and customers are not willing to pay for it." In the short term, Jaguar is likely to focus on using hybrid tech for performance gains. "It makes sense in the C-X16."



More of a priority is four-wheel drive for the XF and XJ. Hallmark makes no secret of his frustration that Jaguar is struggling to compete in the U.S. snowbelt, where four-wheel-drive cars account for 70 percent of sales in the XF class. Prototypes are already testing, and he says Jaguar "is in very intensive discussions to find a solution." These models would boost Jaguar's appeal in the short term, while the company continues work on a crossover.

Coupled with the introduction of these new variants will be a significant marketing push. "The Jaguar brand is famous in the U.S.," says Hallmark, "but people are not so familiar with the current range. We need to communicate what we've got."

Source: Inside Line

Tata Nano 2012 launched!

Tata Nano 2012

Tata has launched the small wonder in its 2012 Avatar. The Nano gets a power upgrade delivering an impressive 38PS of power (earlier 35 PS) and 51Nm of torque (earlier 48 Nm).

Even with higher power the car delivers an impressive 25.4 kmpl (earlier 23.6 kmpl) as certified by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI)

• More fuel efficiency at 25.4 kmpl
• New premium interiors
• New vibrant colours
• Best-in-class air-conditioning
• Lowest CO2 emission, among cars in India
• Booster-assisted brakes in the Standard variant

The ride and handling, also already highly appreciated by existing owners, now has become even better with a revised suspension set-up, including an anti-roll bar at the front, and a steering mechanism made even easier. While the cabin is quiet, a racier sounding exhaust note now gives the Tata Nano a more assertive road presence. Booster-assisted brakes, already available in the Nano CX and the LX, have now been added to the Nano Standard as well. The Nano CX and LX now have tip-tap mirrors on both the driver and passenger sides. For the Nano Standard, which already has a driver side mirror, the passenger side one can be installed as an accessory.

The interiors are completely new with enhanced premiumness in look and feel – luxurious beige in the Nano LX, rich black in the Nano CX and stunning medium graphite in the Standard version. The exteriors are now a veritable vibgyor of 10 colours, eight of them new — Pearl White, Rouge Red, Aqua Blue, Neon Rush, Serene White, Meteor Silver, Mojito Green, Papaya Orange, Sunshine Yellow, and Champagne Gold. New half or full wheel caps accentuate the distinctiveness.

Commenting on the introduction, Mr. P.M. Telang, Tata Motors’ Managing Director – India Operations, has said, “Tata Nano owners, over 90% of whom are highly satisfied with their choice, have given us valuable insights on what more can be done. We have introduced some of these ideas. We will continue to add features, as has been our tradition across our product portfolio.”

The three trim levels and their key features are:

Tata Nano Standard: The standard version comes with three colour options — Rouge Red, Aqua Blue, Serene White — along with clear headlamps, tubeless tyres and tip-tap driver side mirror, booster-assisted brakes and front suspension with anti-roll bar. The interiors comprise dual-tone vinyl seats and fold-down rear seat.

Tata Nano CX: The Nano CX comes in six colour options — Rouge Red, Champagne Gold, Neon Rush, Meteor Silver, Papaya Orange and Serene White. The interiors have been refreshed with trendy black fabric seats, ebony black interiors, fold-down rear seat with nap rest. Besides these, the variant offers best-in-class air-conditioning with heating (optional), parcel shelf, booster-assisted brakes, tip-tap mirrors on driver and passenger side and half wheel covers.

Tata Nano LX: The top-end variant comes loaded with features like premium beige fabric seats, central locking, door handles, front power windows, cup holder in front console, provision for 12V socket, body coloured bumpers, fog lamps, electronic trip meter, rear spoiler, full wheel covers and tip-tap mirrors on driver and passenger side and booster-assisted brakes. The Nano LX comes in six premium colours –  Pearl White, Papaya Orange, Mojito Green, Sunshine Yellow, Meteor Silver and Champagne Gold.



All the variants come with an unmatched warranty of 4 years or 60,000 kms, whichever is earlier.

The Tata Nano will continue to be available at the same price. The Tata Nano is priced (ex-showroom, Delhi), at Rs.1.40 lakhs for the Nano Standard, Rs.1.70 lakhs for the Nano CX and Rs.1.96 lakhs for the Nano LX.

The Tata Nano is available across 676 outlets. Customers can buy the Tata Nano at an extremely low down-payment, starting from Rs.15,000, and high tenure financing (up to 60 months).

Source: Tata Motors

Tata Aria Automatic to be launched by end of 2012

Tata Aria

Tata Motors has set the stage for the launch of the automatic transmission (AT) variant of Aria in India and is expected to roll out the crossover by the end of 2012. The price of the automatic variant is likely to be around Rs. 1 lac more than the manual transmission variant. However, whether the giant home-grown carmaker will offer the automatic transmission in both 4×2 and 4×4 version is not definite.

It must be noted that the Aria automatic has been seen during its testing in Pune recently, which assures its launch in India. The upcoming version of Aria is expected to give considerable competition to the likes of automatic versions of Mahindra Scorpio, Ford Endeavour and Chevrolet Captiva.

As far as the looks of the AT variant is concerned, the only difference will be the inclusion of an ‘auto’ badge on the exterior. As a matter of fact, Aria stands out from other Tata cars in terms of interiors, fit and finish and a dashboard that is soft touch. The seats set an example in the terms of comfort.

During long drives, passengers seating on the front and in the middle row can relax as they have adequate headroom, legroom and shoulder room. Speaking of the rear, the third row of seats lacks user space and is best suited for kids only. The automatic variant will enhance the overall driving especially in short distance urban commuting.

Tata is likely to use a six-speed automatic transmission for the Aria. The Aria AT will be powered by the same 2.2-litre DICOR engine that makes 138 bhp of power and 320 Nm of torque. We expect the Aria AT to accelerate from 0-100 kmph in about 16 seconds. One can expect a mileage of roughly 12.5 kmpl for the Aria AT.

The Aria AT is expected to include all the features found in the manual variant depending on the trim levels. The safety features offered on the Tata Aria AT top-end variant are likely to include Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), ABS, EBD and traction control, six airbags, cruise control, side intrusion beams and a collapsible steering column.



There will be cruise control switches, Bluetooth and audio controls mounted on the steering wheel. In addition, there will be features like satellite-based navigation system, leather upholstery, darkness sensing head lamps, rain sensing wipers, glove box chiller, 6 CD audio system and reverse camera expected in the AT variant.

The Aria AT will likely be priced Rs. 1 lac more than the manual variant. Hence the Aria AT top-end Prestige 4×2 variant will be available at a price of Rs. 15.26 lacs while the 4×4 variant will be priced at Rs. 16.84 lacs.

Thus, the variety that Tata has offered in Aria seems to be a hit in the Indian market where buyers are having a great penchant for high-end vehicles.

Source: Car Trade India

Nargis Fakhri to turn brand ambassador for Jaguar Land Rover?

Nargis Fakhri - Lead actress in recently released "Rockstar" movie

Rockstar's sizzling diva Nargis Fakhri may be named as the global face of luxury car manufacturer brand Jaguar Land Rover from the house of Tata Motors.

The actress put the covers off from the Range Rover Evoque in the capital on Friday, but no formal announcement of her association was made.

Earlier, Nargis was also named as the face of apparel brand Van Heusen Woman and she is also said to have engaged a deal with haircare brand Parachute.

"The industry's response to Nargis has been phenomenal. She is getting the best offers in terms of films and endorsements, and this is just the beginning," said reports.

Source: Pardaphash

2012 Jaguar XKR-S Convertible Price: £103,000 & just 100 UK cars

Jaguar XKR-S Convertible

Jaguar has revealed that the new XKR-S Convertible will cost £103,000 in the UK and there will be just 100 cars available

We noticed that Jaguar in the US seemed to have confirmed that the US price for the new Jaguar XKR-S Convertible - currently strutting its stuff at the L.A. Auto show – is $138,875, and that the States is getting just 25 cars, which have all been sold.

So we got hold of Jaguar, who have confirmed the UK list price as £103,000. The most expensive Jaguar on sale.

Jaguar also tell us that the UK will be getting four times as many XKR-S Convertibles as the US, with 100 cars up for grabs. But that’s just an initial production run, and if they sell out quickly they’re open to increasing numbers.

We assume the same applies in the US – if the cars sell Jaguar will make more – so US buyers who haven’t stumped up a deposit yet on an XKR-S Convertible look like they’ll still be able to get one, even if they have to wait a bit longer.

It seems likely Jaguar will find also the UK allocation of the soft-top XKR-S moving swiftly out of the showrooms too, which is no surprise.



Despite standing next to the new C-X16 at LA, the XKR-S Convertible managed to look far younger than its years, doubtless helped by the very cool white paint job and XKR-S add-ons. 0-60mph in not much more than 4 seconds and a top speed of 186mph don’t do any harm to the cause either.

If your pockets are deep enough, a call to your Jaguar dealers would be a wise move, so you too can strut your stuff in a cool Jaguar XKR-S Convertible when the Spring arrives.

Source: Cars UK

Jaguar XJ Luxury Saloon Wins Green Apple Award

The 3.0-liter diesel version of the Jaguar XJ had the right mix of economy and luxury to win a Green Apple Environment Award after being named Gold Winner for Luxury Green Vehicles. The award was voted for by members of the Midlands Group of Motoring Writers and presented by its Chairman, Ian Donaldson.

“This award recognizes the XJ's ability to achieve high levels of economy and efficiency without compromising on luxury and quality. The XJ has and continues to receive awards across the board – we are delighted with its success,” says Jeremy Hicks, Managing Director, Jaguar UK.

The XJ made its debut in 2010, and part of its eco credentials come from a new Advanced Aluminium Architecture that’s light and strong. The diesel gets an impressive 39.2 mpg, while still offering plenty of refinement.

Source: Auto Evolution

China to be No 2 market for Jaguar Land Rover after UK

China is set to become the second largest market for Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) this fiscal year after the home market UK. For Tata Motors-owned JLR, China with its 87% growth in sales is the fastest growing market and is poised to surpass Europe and North America in terms of sales volume.



JLR sales in China nearly doubled to 10,869 units in the second quarter of the fiscal from 5,801 units in the corresponding period last fiscal. Meanwhile, Europe, the traditionally important market for JLR which passes through huge financial turmoil, showed a sluggish 5% growth by clocking 12,458 units and North America showed flat growth by selling 12,106 units.

According to the company's assessment, China is on course to become the second largest market for Land Rover and third largest for Jaguar in FY 2011-12.

Range Rover Evoque, the smallest, lightest and most fuel-efficient Range Rover model by British off-road legend Land Rover officially hit the markets simultaneously in Beijing and Shanghai on Nov 8.

The Evoque coupe is priced from 638,000 yuan and a five-door version starts at 628,000 yuan.

With a 240 hp 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine and a body made with lightweight materials, the Evoque is also "an excellent demonstration of the marque's commitment to environmental sustainability", said Christopher Brown, executive vice-president of Jaguar Land Rover China

In the first 10 months of 2011, Jaguar Land Rover sold 32,143 vehicles in China, up 60 percent from the same period in 2010.



JLR top management has been intensely trying to find a Chinese partner to start local manufacturing, which will substantially bring down the retail cost of its offerings and boost sales dramatically. "We have shortlisted a few potential local partners. Discussions are progressing," said Ralf Speth, MD & CEO, JLR.

Kenneth Gregor, CFO, JLR, said there is a strong demand for Jaguar XJ 3.0, which was introduced in China in March 2011. He expects Range Rover Evoque, which will roll out in China soon, to further boost JLR demand.

Source: Hindustan Times & China Daily

Jaguar XF and XJ saloon cars with 4WD will be launched by 2014!

Jaguar has planned to up the ante with an all new four-wheel drive sedan range. Jaguar top boss Adrian Hallmark has revealed that the British car maker will soon debut four-wheel drive versions of their XF and XJ sadans. According the Jaguar official these cars will be important for the company and will be the stimulant for its growth in the huge market across the Atlantic. Cars with four-wheel drive are particularly popular in places which experience snowfall in winters.

It is a huge untapped market for Jaguar and hence the car maker has chalked out plans to enter the 4WD sedan segment, he said. Even as the market calls for development of economical automobiles and hybrids, Jaguar believes hybrid technology is still too expensive to make it viable for them and hence to provide an initial sales boost, they have decided to target the 4WD segment instead of running behind hybrid-tech. It is quite a surprising decision since, the German brands are way ahead of their competition when it comes to development of hybrid-tech for their cars.

However, it does not mean that Jaguar won’t develop hybrids in the future. The priority for Jaguar at the moment is to complete the development of a four-wheel drive system for their cars with a global launch expected in the next couple of years. The development of the new drivetrain could also pave the way for a 4×4 SUV from Jaguar in the future. The United States is a big market for SUVs and Jaguar might have plans to enter the fray as well. Hallmark was speaking on the side lines of the Los Angeles motor show and here what he had to say,

“In the past all-wheel-drive has meant Audi and Quattro, but now it is something that the market expects,” said Hallmark, speaking at the Los Angeles motor show. “In the snowbelt of America it accounts for 70 per cent of sales, and overall it counts for 30 per cent of sales, so we are working on it and in the final stages of a decision. It is core to our future offering.”

The development of four-wheel-drive vehicles has been prioritized ahead of developing hybrids at Jaguar, as it is believed it will give a more immediate sales boost.

“Hybrid technology is currently very expensive,” said Hallmark. “The customer doesn’t want to pay for it yet, so while it is something we will develop for the market, it is a longer-term project.”

Source: Autocar & ICB

Jaguar XJ 3.0 Diesel is a Gold Winner

The Jaguar XJ 3.0 litre diesel received a Green Apple Environment Award being named the Gold winner for Luxury Green Vehicles.

The Jaguar XJ 3.0 litre diesel received a Green Apple Environment Award being named the Gold winner for Luxury Green Vehicles.

Managing Director of Jaguar UK Jeremy Hicks said “this award recognises the XJ's ability to achieve high levels of economy and efficiency without compromising on luxury and quality. The XJ continues to receive awards across the board we are delighted with its success.”

The Jaguar XJ is priced from £55,515 and this month the Jaguar XJ Sport and Speed pack has been launched in supercharged form which is the fastest and most dynamic XJ ever created.

The Jaguar XJ offers three engines with four trim levels. The range starts with the 3.0 litre V6 petrol engine which generates 238 bhp and returns 40.1 mpg.

The next step is the Premium Luxury followed by the Portfolio both of which can be specified with a 5.0 litre V8 petrol engine. Top of the range is a supercharged version of the V8 which generates 470bhp which is only available in sport trim. With its lightweight aluminium architecture, the Jaguar XJ is the most efficient luxury car in its class capable of achieving 39.2 mpg, whilst retaining high levels of performance and refinement.



Source: Motoring

Jaguar planning for Small, Luxury City Car.

Traditionally, small city cars haven’t been viewed by the mainstream auto industry or most car buyers with much enthusiasm.



Now they’re so trendy that even renowned luxury brands like Jaguar want to build one.

Speaking with What Car? magazine at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show, Jaugar design boss Ian Callum revealed that the British prestige automaker was seriously considering building a car to rival smaller cars like the Toyota iQ-based Aston Martin Cygnet minicar.

“It’s a personal view, but there’s room for a premium small car,” Callum explained. “It would be a high-end small car for city use.”

Is there a market for a smaller Jaguar? Probably not in most cities in the U.S., but as more and more places around the world chose to adopt heavy taxation schemes designed to keep larger-engined, heavily-polluting cars out of city centers, there is an emerging market for premium, high-gas mileage city cars.

“The big challenges would be economic and creating a business for it, along with making a small car feel like a Jaguar and have the right levels of refinement and luxury,” Callum told What Car?, adding that the car could easily be a hatchback, coupe or even small sedan.



Source: Green Car Reports

Five Minutes on the C-X16 with Jaguar’s Adrian Hallmark, Ralf Speth, and Andy Goss

Jaguar has long been know for its designs, but has had some real knockouts one after the other in the past few years in the forms of the C-XF, C-X75, and C-X16 concepts, and the XF and XJ production cars. We were able to sit down with Jaguar Global Brand Director Adrian Hallmark and his colleagues Ralf Speth, CEO of Jaguar/Land Rover, and Andy Goss, the head of Jaguar Land Rover North America. We picked their brains about their most recent — and stunning — concept car, the C-X16.

Automobile Magazine: Timing on the C-X16?

Adrian Hallmark: We haven’t made a decision yet.

Automobile Magazine: What’s the soonest?

Adrian Hallmark: The decision? We could make it today, but the project is at least a couple of years away. We’ve done a lot of development work around the concept, but there’s a lot more to do.

Automobile Magazine: Is this a 911 competitor?

Adrian Hallmark: No, it’s a Jaguar. If you took the hybrid and all the technology out and had a supercharged V-6, that could be priced, roughly, somewhere between the top of Porsche Cayman R and the bottom of 911. So, less than a 911, but more than a Cayman.

Automobile Magazine: Do you want to introduce it with the hybrid, and then bring in other powertrains later?

Adrian Hallmark: No, I think we wanted to debut the concept with this powertrain, because we’ve actually learned a lot from working on the CX-75 (2010 Paris Motor Show supercar concept). One example is, we’ve got air-conditioned batteries, what that does in terms of power extraction and efficiency of the batteries is incredible. We’ve got, with another battery partner, a patented technology that’s in this C-X16 concept, but it came from the CX-75 research work. So, we’ve also learned about how to integrate the motor, the engine, and the power control systems, huge amounts of coding, with lots of bench testing and development work [on the CX-75].



Automobile Magazine: So those two cars might go in lockstep toward production?

Adrian Hallmark: We wanted to present an innovative, relevant performance powertrain for the future. Anybody can make a car look beautiful….not quite as well as [Jaguar design director] Ian Callum can….but to have something with that design appeal, and that technical substance, for us was important, to get Jaguar back into consideration as a modern, technically driven, innovative, engineering-led company that can design the most beautiful cars in the world.

Automobile Magazine: So when the C-X16 goes on sale, it could start with a conventional powertrain, and is more likely to have a conventional powertrain?

Adrian Hallmark: Absolutely. But this hybrid powertrain is totally feasible, but not as quickly as the car could be built.

Ralf Speth: I think it will change Jaguar the brand itself. For me, Jaguar is a sport oriented brand and company. Thinking back to the 50s, when Jaguar was first in the market with disc brakes, and the E-type. This DNA of Jaguar can best be shown in a sports car.

Andy Goss: It’s not going to drive massive volume, but it drives our image. It’s totally credible from a style and design perspective; people can see that it is clearly a Jaguar. So it provides a very young image which will provide a halo. From the U.S. perspective, it’s absolutely important that we make a very strong business case for the car.

Source: Automobile Magazine