Here is one of the very first spy shots of the new Jaguar XF Sportbrake, partly in camouflage, coming in 2012. The Sportbrake, the official name of which was only confirmed today, was seen being taken for a test drive around Jaguar’s R&D base in Coventry.

This wagon shape was not in the original design plans as an XF derivative and so product planners have had a considerable task in converting the four-door saloon into an executive estate.

The interior is expected to have the usual fold-down rear seats, more rear headroom and executive toys such as electric boot operation.

Once the disguise has been peeled off, what is likely to be revealed is the most-talked-about aspect of the new XF Sportbrake: a black stylised wraparound rear pillar. Underneath the black and white camouflage, lies a traditional XF style. It’s only different from the B-pillars backwards, and CAR magazine’s sources suggest that there’s a sporty side glasshouse with a coupe graphic to counter the slightly taller roofline.

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.

source: car magazine