First production Jaguar XF rolls off the line

In what I believe will be the start of a turn-around in Jaguar’s fortunes (assuming that One Equity Partners isn’t the successful purchaser in their current sale), the first Jaguar XF rolled off the companies Castle Bromwich based production line.

“Number one” is a Vapour Grey 4.2-litre SV8 and it will enjoy a long and luxurious life as part of Jaguar’s Daimler Heritage Trust collection alongside motoring greats such as the 1897 Grafton Phaeton as well as the oldest surviving Daimler. The big question is, will it be worthy of its place in this collection? I think it will.

There was a small ceremony to mark the occasion with some 500 employees present to watch Sir William Lyon’s grandson, Michael Quinn, drive the car down the last few feet of the production line.

"My Grandfather would have been immensely proud today. The new XF is a car that truly represents the core values which have lain at the heart of this great brand since its foundation in 1922 and I am thrilled to have been asked here today to witness this historic event from the best seat in the house!", said Michael Quinn.

The new Jaguar XF is expected to go on sale in 2008.