Starting from next year, Jaguar will offer all-wheel-drive versions of their XF and XJ saloons in selected markets. The main reason for this, of course, is to keep up with the German rivals who all offer AWD sedans. Jaguar mentions North America, Russia, China and continental Europe as the main markets for the new AWD models.

These models will only be offered with the new 3.0-litre V6 supercharged 340PS petrol engine. It complements the performance of this great powertrain and gives the cars extra traction to make the most out of that power.

When the new for-wheel-drive models join the range, Jaguar will compete in approximately 80 per cent of the luxury saloon market, four times its previous opportunity. While AWDs account for less than five percent of the UK luxury saloon market, they are quite popular in the States, so Jaguar is planning to send more than three quarters of the AWD models – produced at Jaguar’s Castle Bromwich factory in the UK from October 2012 – over the pond.

All-wheel-drive XJ and XF will not be offered in Britain.