Jaguar Develops New Generation AWD System

Jaguar

Jaguar Develops New Generation AWD System

Jaguar announced at the Moscow Motor Show that it will offer models equipped with an AWD (all-wheel drive) system for its 4-door sedans, the "XF" and "XJ," starting with the 2013 model year.

Text by AKIZUKI Shinichiro (OPENERS)

Bringing Land Rover's AWD Technology to Jaguar

Jaguar once had AWD (all-wheel drive) models. The "X-Type," which debuted in 2001, was offered with an AWD model based on a front-wheel-drive platform. The "X-Type" AWD model was based on the Ford "Mondeo," with which Jaguar had a capital alliance at the time, and the AWD system was also a transfer of Ford's technology. For this reason, it is not widely known that the X-Type was Jaguar's first all-wheel-drive vehicle.

The AWD system that Jaguar is now adopting has been developed based on the technology of Land Rover, which is under the same group umbrella. According to Jaguar, engine torque is distributed to the front and rear in a maximum ratio of 50:50, providing optimal traction under various weather and road conditions. While details of the system have not yet been announced, given that it incorporates the lineage of Land Rover, a specialist in all-wheel-drive vehicles, its capabilities are highly anticipated.

The engine to be installed is a newly developed 3.0-liter V6 supercharged gasoline engine that produces a maximum output of 340 ps. For environmental consideration, it is equipped with an engine auto stop/start function. The transmission is an 8-speed automatic.

It was also announced that these AWD models of the "XF" and "XJ" will be rolled out globally, including North America, Russia, China, and Europe.