Jaguar’s sports car lineage spans more than 73 years, beginning with the XK 120. At reveal at the Earls Court Motor Show in October 1948, this beautiful 120mph roadster was the world’s fastest production car. I am a huge fan of the F-TYPE as it is one of just a handful of cars from the hundreds I have driven that has really gotten under my skin.
Built at Jaguar’s Castle Bromwich plant in the UK, all F-TYPE models coming to Australia from late 2021 will be powered by a 5.0 litre Supercharged V8 engine with power outputs ranging from the R-Dynamic P450 with an impressive 331kW, through to the F-TYPE R with 423kW. All feature a Switchable Active Sports Exhaust system with quad outboard mounted exhaust pipes, so you have the option of releasing the thrilling rumble at all engine speeds.
The F-TYPE’s powerful, refined and responsive engines are matched to eight-speed Quickshift transmissions with full manual control using either the SportShift gear selector or the gearshift paddles
Exclusively rear-wheel drive, the new 331kW P450, 5.0-litre supercharged V8 has been developed to offer exploitable, useable and rewarding performance – maximum torque of 580Nm is generated from 2,500rpm. The P450 powertrain features an electronic active rear differential to optimise traction, and enables 0-100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds and a maximum speed of 285km/h.
The new R-Dynamic P450 Coupé and Convertible models further heighten the purity and presence that set Jaguar’s definitive sports car apart. F-TYPE’s pure, sculpted form is accentuated by the R-Dynamic Pack and 20-inch, six split-spoke wheels with gloss dark grey and contrast diamond turned finish.
For truly exceptional performance in all weathers and on any kind of road there is the F-TYPE R. Offered exclusively with all-wheel drive, its supercharged V8 delivers 423kW and 700Nm: the benchmark sprint to 100km/h takes just 3.7 seconds, while maximum speed is an electronically limited 300km/h.
The F-TYPE R Coupé specification has been enhanced for 22MY, with the following items now included as standard – Metallic, Premium or SVO Gloss Metallic Paint, Fixed Panoramic Roof, Exterior Design Black Pack, Aluminium Gearshift paddles, 20” Satin Grey 5-Split Spoke alloys, Blind Spot Assist Pack, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
Both the F-TYPE R-Dynamic P450 and F-TYPE R models are equipped as standard with Jaguar’s Adaptive Dynamics system with Configurable Dynamics. Using electronically controlled, continuously variable dampers, Adaptive Dynamics optimises both low-speed comfort and high-speed control, while Configurable Dynamics enables the driver to tailor the settings for suspension stiffness, steering weight, throttle response and gearshifts.
All V8 F-TYPEs benefit from the Quiet Start function: the electrically actuated bypass valves in the rear silencer remain closed until they automatically open up under load. If desired, Quiet Start can be over-ridden by selecting Dynamic Mode or by pressing the switchable exhaust button before starting the engine.
The driver-focussed ‘1+1’ interior, like the exterior, has evolved into a purer expression of the car’s elegance and performance. By concentrating on further refining the traditionally British Jaguar craftsmanship and adding discreet, beautiful details, the sense of luxury and sportiness has been heightened.
The 22MY F-TYPE range features a 12.3” Interactive Driver Display, 10” touch Pro with connected navigation, and a Meridian Sound System boasting 380W and 10 speakers including 2 subwoofers, DAB+, Apple Carplay and Android Auto.
There is no word yet on an end to production of the F-TYPE and a Jaguar Australia spokesperson advised that “…the F-TYPE will remain in our line-up for some time yet.”
Complementing the 11 core paint colours, customers can choose from 14 exclusive colours in the SVO Premium Palette, each one meticulously designed by Special Vehicle Operations. All are no cost option on the R model. This particular colour is called Sorrento Yellow and photographs do not do it justice, it is stunning!
All F-TYPEs sold in Australia include 5 years/Unlimited km warranty, 5 years Roadside Assistance and 5 years/130,000kms servicing. Australian pricing for the F-TYPE R-Dynamic P450 Coupé is $159,900, the R-Dynamic P450 Convertible is $164,900 and the R Coupé is $264,966 with first deliveries expected December 2021. Visit the Jaguar Australia website to configure your very own F-TYPE.
Photographs by Driven Women Magazine.