Jaguar Crossover Due in 2 Years

Tata Motors Ltd.'s Jaguar Cars brand is foreshadowing a 2015 small crossover vehicle with its C-X17 concept, which will be unveiled at the Frankfurt auto show on Sept. 10.

Jaguar says the C-X17 was created as a design study to introduce the brand's new modular aluminum architecture. The company is expected to use that chassis in at least three models, including a compact sedan and production version of the C-X17 in mid-2015.

The crossover, which reportedly may be called XQ or Q-type, will compete with models such as the X3 from BMW AG. The compact sedan, to be called XS, is aimed at the BMW 3 Series. Both new models are expected to broaden Jaguar's appeal by giving the brand more affordable vehicles.

Jaguar's global sales were up 33% to 43,800 units in the first seven months of 2013 compared with the same period in 2012.