Jaguar is planning to introduce a sporty estate version of the X-type saloon in a bid to increase its share in the compact business car sector.

Thought likely to be called the Sports Tourer, the company's first estate model will be pitched to rival the popular BMW 3-series Touring and Audi A4 Avant.

Prototypes of the vehicle, designed more as lifestyle family car than workhorse transport, have already been built at the Halewood factory as part of an extended test programme.

'We are keen to increase our product offering. Eventually, the X-type will come with more engines as well as additional body styles,' said managing director Mike Beasley.