THE first crossover model to join the expanding Jaguar stable will hit the UK next year.

Some 1,300 new jobs are being created at Solihull in the Midlands to help produce the model, which will be called the Jaguar F-PACE.

It is based on the C-X17 concept model presented to great acclaim at last spring's Geneva Motor Show and comes with the promise of ‘class-leading interior space and exceptional on-road dynamics with five-seat usability',

Jaguar design chief Ian Callum said: "We received such an overwhelmingly positive response to the C-X17 concept car last year that we just had to make it a reality.

"The Jaguar F-PACE, inspired by the F-TYPE, represents a perfectly judged balance of performance, style and practicality.

"It offers a unique combination of Jaguar sports car inspired exterior design, fused beautifully with a thoroughly practical and spacious luxury interior. The F-PACE is our family sports car."

And that, says Jaguar, means beautiful design, precise handling, a supple ride, luxurious interior finishes and cutting-edge technology.

The F-PACE announcement, at the Detroit auto show, will see Jaguar Land Rover's Solihull manufacturing plant continue to develop its capability in aluminium vehicle construction.

It also marks the start of a year in which the manufacturer will deliver a dozen significant product actions in the next 12 months alone, starting with the new XE sports saloon.

Speaking in Detroit, JLR's global sales director Andy Goss said: "In 2015 we will celebrate Jaguar's 80th year.

"We have started it by announcing our first performance crossover which we consider to be the ultimate practical sports car - a car that builds on the marque's founding ideals of grace, pace and space to become one of the most innovative Jaguars we've ever developed.

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

Further details of the F-PACE will be revealed later this year.