The awkward-looking Jaguar C-X17 concept returns … but this time as a golden 5-seater

By Stephen Edelstein Published November 25, 2013

Apparently, Jaguar’s plan to build an SUV isn’t going to change anytime soon.

The Jaguar C-X17 concept was unveiled just two months ago at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and exhibited again at the Dubai Motor Show, but now it’s making a third appearance in China and the Guangzhou Motor Show.

At each of its appearances, the C-X17 has worn a different color. It was blue in Frankfurt, silver in Dubai, and now it’s rose gold. While it’s an appropriate hue considering the affluent customers Jaguar is aiming for with this concept, the gold C-X17 is probably the least attractive of the lot.

A metallic finish is the only thing keeping it from looking like a beige Toyota Highlander. Not a good look for an already awkward-looking car.

The paint isn’t the most important change, though. Previous versions of the C-X17 had four-seat cabins, but this one seats five. That’s a more practical arrangement, and it’s what will most likely be seen on a production model.

Rear-seat passengers may have to deal with an extra body, but at least they get a new infotainment system to help pass the time.

The C-X17 is based on a new aluminum platform architecture that Jaguar hopes to use on several future production models. Jaguar previously stated that a production version of this big cat would feature a wide variety of engines – ranging from thrifty diesels to the F-Type’s 3.0-liter V6 – to appeal to buyers in several markets.

Jaguar obviously isn’t the first luxury carmaker to build a crossover and it’s also not the first to repackage a concept for multiple auto shows.

The Lexus LF-LC concept was unveiled in red at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show, then painted blue for appearances in Sydney and Los Angeles, while the Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe was unveiled for a second time at last week’s LA Show with updated specs.

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Stephen Edelstein

Contributing Editor

Stephen is a freelance automotive journalist covering all things cars. He likes anything with four wheels, from classic cars…

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