Jaguar's F-TYPE range introduces new high-tech features for 2016, but there's a price adjustment to go with the new model year update.
The former entry-level F-TYPE coupe with eight-speed ZF automatic has been bumped by a new manual variant (six-speed) priced very slightly higher than the auto. For the new model year, the automatic variant has increased in price from $119,430 to $124,470, an increase of $5040.
Other automatic variants have risen in similar increments: $4940 more for the F-TYPE S coupe and $7840 for the F-TYPE R coupe. The convertibles are up too: $4995 for the base auto and $4895 more for the F-TYPE S.
New features fitted across the range include electric power assisted steering and a switchable active sports exhaust system; and all V6 models are now available with torque vectoring by braking, which was previously available on the V8-engined F-TYPE. V6S and R models are now equipped as standard with a reversing camera and front parking sensors. Jaguar is also offering the F-TYPE for 2016 with new Sports Design Packs.
Jaguar has dropped the previous F-TYPE S V8 in favour of the 404kW F-TYPE R Convertible, which is available in both rear- and all-wheel drive formats. Driving through the new AWD system the F-TYPE R coupe is claimed to reach 100km/h from a standing start within 4.1 seconds. According to Jaguar the F-TYPE with all-wheel drive has lost none of its rear-wheel drive cornering traits. The system is available with the F-TYPE S coupe in addition to the two F-TYPE R variants. All the AWD variants are automatic only and can be identified by a larger bulge in the bonnet and new vents.
"What we require of our AWD system in F-TYPE is optimal traction in all weather conditions, but preserving the Jaguar DNA and sports car character – that means rear-drive feel and steering without any corruption. The key to this is Intelligent Driveline Dynamics – IDD," said Jaguar's Russ Varney, Vehicle Programme Director for Sports Cars.
"IDD allows us to provide 'torque on demand' - only delivering torque to the front wheels when it's required to enhance traction. That means we get great steering precision and the efficiency of a rear-drive car, but with additional traction via the front wheels precisely delivered to match the driver's demand, the road surface and the driving situation."
Jaguar is introducing the six-speed manual variants in base-grade coupe and convertible, plus the F-TYPE S coupe. Automatic F-TYPE models go on sale locally from April, with manuals following in July.
"A manual transmission in a sports car is always the purist driver's choice – and to meet their expectations the manual F-TYPE had to offer a completely engaging driving experience," said Mike Cross, Jaguar's Chief Engineer for Vehicle Integrity.
"The short throw of the gear lever, the mechanical quality of the shift, pedal spacing ideally suited to heel-and-toe changes, the tune of the V6 supercharged engine itself – all have been subject to detailed scrutiny to ensure driving a manual F-TYPE is as fun as it is fast."