Jaguar has confirmed production of its first crossover model for 2016, called the F-Pace.

The British car maker said the crossover is inspired by the C-X17 crossover, first shown in 2013 and the F-Type, which can be seen from the picture above – the rear lights are very similar to the firm’s halo car.

No details have been given about what will power the F-Pace, but expect JLR’s Ingenium low-emission petrol and diesel family, which features a 99g/km CO2 163hp 2.0-litre diesel in the line-up.

The Ingenium units are scalable to allow them to be produced in different sizes, with different power outputs and can be used across JLR’s model range, including the forthcoming XE.

They are also compatible with multiple transmissions and rear- and four-wheel drive systems.  

“We have announced our first performance crossover which we consider to be the ultimate practical sports car,” said Andy Goss, JLR global sales director.

“The F-Pace has now begun its engineering and development testing programme ahead of the new model going on sale in 2016.”

While it was rumoured the crossover would be announced at some point, UK boss Jeremy Hicks wouldn’t be drawn on the prospect of the F-Pace making production when he spoke to BusinessCar late last year.

“What we have delivered as a young company [since being acquired by Tata] in a short space of time is remarkable,” Hicks declared. “Anything is possible, but we’ve got to deliver on what we have planned and get the job done before we look at anything else,” he said, however he admitted he was interested in the SUV market when discussing the C-X17.

“The SUV market is really interesting in terms of how it has grown and developed,” he said.

JLR also confirmed it is creating 1300 new jobs at its Solihull plant to develop its aluminum and lightweight technology.

“Jaguar Land Rover is committed to delivering more great products. It is that innovation and relentless quest for new technologies that sets our products apart. We want to offer customers greater choice, with even more exciting vehicles, crafted with that special British flair,” said JLR CEO  Dr Ralf Speth.