Jaguar has conducted a comprehensive study of its new lightweight XJ vehicle to assess the environmental impact that the model has over its lifetime.

According to the luxury car firm, the study represents its ongoing commitment to maintaining and achieving sustainability in its cars.

The assessment, of which Jaguar is one of only a handful of manufacturers to complete, takes into account the environmental impact of the XJ from manufacturing, customer use, disposal and recycling.

"Detailed lifecycle assessment helps us understand more clearly the most effective ways of reducing each model's carbon footprint," Tony Higgins, project leader for the XJ certification, explained.

"Jaguar is committed to maintaining a leadership position in its approach to sustainability and the certification achieved for the new XJ model is an independent validation of the progress we have made."

The news may alert individuals interested in executive car hire who are keen to protect the environment.

Jaguar's 3.0-litre V6 diesel-powered XJ is able to achieve impressive fuel consumption of 50mpg on an extra urban cycle, while carbon dioxide emissions are just 184g/km.

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Posted by Jenny Denham