Best of Jaguar and Land Rover San Francisco at Monterey Auto Week

Without a doubt, Monterey Auto Week has become one of the world's premier celebrations of automotive style, performance and history. And with events such as Concorso Italiano, the Quail: A Motorsports Gathering, and the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, this year's festivities from August 17-21, 2011 drew the attention of automotive aficionados, collectors, luxury car buyers and the media like none before.

There was plenty to see, admire, test drive and race for the lucky few that were able to be a part of the exclusive action: our Jaguar and Land Rover brands presented great displays of concept (Jaguar C-X75) and upcoming production models (Jaguar XKR-S, Range Rover Evoque) that showcased why these automobiles stake a time-honored claim in their class. And visitors were given ample opportunity to test-drive Jaguar's and Land Rover's 2012 line-up in the most picturesque settings in Monterey Bay.


The following are a few highlights from this year's auto events on the Peninsula - enjoy and start planning your trip to Pebble Beach next year!

At Jaguar's 50 Years of E-Type Celebration, the C-X75 Hybrid Concept drew hordes of onlookers

British Motors General Sales Manager Mario Terzic in front of the 550HP Jaguar XKR-S

Of course, with Jaguar celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the E-Type this year, the model was also a key marque at the Quail Motorsports Gathering. Ron Laurie presented his 1961 E-Type as part of a spectacular E-Type display with 21 cars. The beautifully restored E-Type took first place in its class and was awarded a spot in the Circle of Champions. Ron also received a visit by British Motor Car Distributors founder and owner Kjell Qvale - Kjell was the dealer that sold this very special E-Type new in August of 1961, exactly 50 years ago!

BMCD founder and owner Kjell Qvale at Quail Motorsports Gathering with the 1961 E-Type that he sold new in August 1961 (Photo: Ron Laurie)

For Land Rover, the week's activities centered around offering test drives of the entire product range including the 2012 Range Rover Evoque in an off-road setting for the very first time. The crowd's response was extremely positive and got everyone excited for the upcoming launch of this newest Range Rover model.