A Timeline of Jaguar History
Jaguar is a vehicle you can notice on Greenwich Road. After all, not many manufacturers can create luxury performance vehicles for nearly 100 years. Jaguar has an extensive and interesting history, so familiarize yourself with the vehicles both old and new, then learn more about the Jaguar logo!
Starting Off
Most people don’t realize that Jaguar has been a staple in the vehicle manufacturing industry for years. This company started in 1922 when William Lyons and William Walmsley founded Swallow Sidecar Company. Together, they delved into the vehicle market and offered a different take. In 1934, Walmsley opted to leave the company and sold his share of the business to Lyons, who then decided to change the company name to S.S. Cars Limited. It wasn’t until 1935 that the name S. S. Jaguar was introduced to the marketplace, offering drivers 2.5L models known as the SS90 and the SS100.
Speed ahead to 1945, and Lyons decided the company name should focus on the luxury sports cars they created. This year, the company’s name was changed to Jaguar Cars Limited, as Lyons believed that no other vehicle could be confused with such an attractive and unique vehicle, so it needed a name to stand out.
In the early 1950s, the Jaguar name and its models took off and became a sought-after vehicle. During this time, though, Jaguar noticed a shortage in steel, so keeping up with demand was sometimes difficult. In order to ensure the company could stay afloat, they partnered with certain companies that handled steel production and delivery.
The Models
Ever since Jaguar hit the marketplace, it has been offering great, attractive vehicles that stand out on the roadways. During the late 1940s, the company focused its production on luxury performance vehicles—a market that was not being tapped. Some of the earliest vehicles included the Jaguar XK120, Jaguar XK140, Jaguar XK150, and classic Jaguar E-TYPE.
Jaguar also made heads turn when they displayed the twin-cam straight six engine that came available with three pistons. Plus, they also offered a fuel-efficient model aimed at those who worried a sports car would use too much gas.
Since its debut, Jaguar has been providing vehicles that use quality materials. No other company in the market focused on quality the way Jaguar did and continues to do today, which allowed this company to stay afloat.
Overcoming Challenges
As mentioned above, Jaguar had an exclusive steel partnership. In the 1960s, this company sold out to another company, which left Jaguar in limbo. In order to keep the company afloat, Lyons opted to merge the company with BMC, and this forced the company to change its name to British Motor Holdings in 1965.
In addition to the name change, Lyons also noticed that drivers weren’t seeking out luxury vehicles like they used to. BMC also noticed, and they pushed the company out on its own to keep the company’s stock from harm.
In 1999, Jaguar joined Ford, and this helped the company boost production. In the early 2000s, Ford placed Land Rover and Jaguar together, and the companies have remained together ever since. Today, Jaguar is owned by Tata Motors, while design and manufacturing continue to take place in the UK.
Jaguar Today
Today, Jaguar is still known for making quality vehicles that drivers throughout Greenwich want to experience. See the current Jaguar models available.
The XE offers a colorful and dynamic exterior that makes a statement throughout New Canaan. In addition, the power behind this model is something you’ll certainly notice.
The Jaguar XF looks similar to the XE, but it offers more space and more luxury features, including sophisticated finishes and quality materials.
The Jaguar XJ offers plenty of passenger and cargo space, giving drivers the ability to take in more of the West Port area in style.
The Jaguar F-PACE is a great vehicle that offers Jaguar features in the form of an SUV. When you want a luxury model that can handle all your adventures, this is the one you’ll want to choose.
For drivers interested in the sports car appeal and standing out from the crowd, the F-TYPE is the best choice. This chiseled vehicle stands out everywhere it goes, and it delivers a look that every driver can be proud of.
Visit Jaguar Darien Today
Jaguar has been spearheading the luxury performance vehicle market since its inception, and Greenwich drivers are lucky to have so many great options. When you want to experience everything Jaguar offers, visit Jaguar Darien at 1335 Boston Post Road in Darien to see our inventory. You can also contact us online or call us at (866) 217-4112 to schedule a test drive or apply for vehicle financing.
