Mini and Jaguar prepare new entrants

The spyshot, shown right, is an early prototype of a "production-intent" Jaguar XF rolling around on the streets surrounding the firm's factory in England. After Jaguar had shown its C-XF concept in Detroit, this heavily disguised prototype indicates that there has been a toning-down of certain design elements for production.

Certainly, the car's grille, A-pillar and certain surfacing details are consistent with the pending show car, but the tail-lights are in fact different, as well as details like the traditional door pulls and rear-view mirrors.

These photos of the XF test car also indicate that the production car will have a more traditional (less coupé-like) roofline, which should help with rear seat headroom.

Also caught testing in the last week is Mini's upcoming Traveller, pictured left. The undisguised prototype, photographed undergoing cold-climate testing in northern Scandinavia, looks essentially as expected, given the spate of like-bodied concept cars that have been seen on the motor show circuit.

The car incorporates barn-style rear doors that split down the middle. The doors themselves have thoughtfully been cut wide to incorporate the brake lights, affording a large aperture for easy cargo loading.

Additionally, the model gains one reverse-opening side-door on the passenger side of the vehicle. It is made to open wide to ease entry to the back seat.

The Traveller name has not been officially announced, but the historically-correct name is widely expected to be used when the car finally hits the road this summer.