Jaguar has finally lifted the wraps off its eagerly awaited F-Type two-seater sportscar at the Paris Motor Show. This front-engined, rear-wheel drive roadster is underpinned by the fourth generation of Jaguar’s lightweight aluminium architecture, which originally featured on the firm’s XK models. The F-Type was developed with a particular focus on torsional stiffness and dynamic agility and suspended on double wishbones with adaptive damping. The active damping system features a module that can detect lateral movement under spirited driving and adjust damper parameters to limit yawing and body roll,
Three F-Type models will be offered from launch; the F-Type, the F-Type S and F-Type V8 S.
The F-Type and F-Type S are both powered by Jaguar’s new supercharged 3,0-litre V6 engine developing 250 kW/450 N.m and 280 kW/460 N.m, respectively. The F-Type can crack 0-100 km/h in 5,3 seconds on the way to a 260 km/h top speed, while the S does the same in 4,9 seconds and hits 275 km/h. The range-topping V8 S is powered by a supercharged 5,0-litre V8 developing 364 kW and 625 N.m of torque – enough to propel it from standstill to 100 km/h in 4,3 seconds and on to a 300 km/h top speed.
All of the engines are coupled to an 8-speed ‘Quickshift’ automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for sequential gear shifting. The S models can both be had with an optional configurable dynamics system that includes a G-meter and an interface that allows the driver to tailor such parameters as steering weight and throttle response and feature an active exhaust system similar to that found on the XKR-S. A limited-slip differential (mechanical in the V6 models and electrical in the V8) is standard across the F-Type range.
While there are visual hints to the iconic E-Type in the new car’s silhouette, the F-Type borrows much of its styling from the CX-16 concept. Flush door handles and a deployable rear spoiler help the F-Type retain a svelte, smooth-skinned appearance. The cabin features a dual-cockpit layout with a sloping facia with a pod-like instrument binnacle, a retracting central vent cluster and a choice of materials, leather grains and colour schemes unique to the F-Type.
The Jaguar F-Type will touch down on SA soil in June 2013.
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