Over the past few weeks, we’ve reported on Volkswagen SA’s plans to kill off the manual Golf GTI, as well as the news that BMW will soon no longer offer three-pedal versions of its M3 and M4 in South Africa.
While the decisions are obviously based on lacklustre local sales of stick-shift models, it still seems somewhat of a pity, particularly to enthusiasts like us.
But Jaguar South Africa appears to be bucking the manual-killing trend. Yes, the local arm of the British automaker will actually add manual derivatives to its F-Type range with the upcoming facelift.
While the pre-facelift line-up comprises ten derivatives, each powered by an eight-speed automatic transmission, the updated range will feature as many as 18 variants, including four manual models.
The 250kW, 3,0-litre, supercharged V6 F-Type Coupé will be available with a manual gearbox, priced at R1 076 896 (specifying the auto will add R13 310 to the price).
The 280 kW Coupé will also be offered with three pedals, coming in at R1 195 196. The same will apply to the convertible models, with the 250 kW version priced at R1 094 496 and the 280 kW variant at R1 212 796.
New all-wheel-drive models will also be added to the local range, along with four limited edition 400 Sport models. The latter each features a further enhanced version of the forced induction V6, tuned to deliver 294 kW (and also gain a smattering of special edition badging, beefier brakes, the Configurable Dynamics system and special 20-inch alloys).
The range-topper will now be the V8-powered, 423 kW F-Type SVR Convertible AWD, priced at R2 368 386.
