Frankfurt show: Jaguar shows off F-Pace

JAGUAR'S F-Pace has been partially revealed ahead of its official debut at next week's Frankfurt motor show, with the company's first SUV appearing in profile in a promotional video.

As expected, the F-Pace's exterior design is virtually identical to that of the C-X17 concept that was revealed two years ago at the 2013 Frankfurt motor show, carrying Jaguar's now-familiar head and tail-light design.

The video teasing the F-Pace is filmed in Shanghai, emphasising Jaguar Land Rover's increasing presence in the Chinese market, where it has a factory and builds models including the Range Rover Evoque under a joint-venture with Chery.

The 90-second clip also highlights the SUV's lightweight aluminium architecture, the V6 engine from the F-Type sportscar that will likely power the 'S' variant and other elements such as the suspension set-up and red brake callipers.

Details of the F-Pace will be released when the covers come off at next week's Frankfurt show, but expect the high-riding wagon to use some of the same powertrains as the XE and XF, both of which share a platform with the F-Pace.

The five-seater – there are no plans to make it as a seven-seater – will be built at JLR's Solihull, United Kingdom plant, and should arrive in Australian showrooms midway through next year.

While it marks the first time Jaguar will offer an SUV, reports have suggested that a family of crossovers is likely from the British brand in the coming years, as it expands its model line-up in a bid to become a serious player in the premium sector.

Late last month Jag revealed that the F-Pace will use the same double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension set-up as the new XE mid-sizer, as well as versions of the company's chassis control systems.

Likely rivals include the Porsche Macan, Audi Q5, BMW X3 and forthcoming Mercedes-Benz GLC.

GoAuto will have all of the details of the F-Pace from the motor show floor as it is revealed next week.