Jaguar F-TYPE S road test
by Stephen Walker
19th January, 2014
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Jaguar F-TYPE arrives
1st August, 2013
Jaguar announce
F-TYPE prices
2nd May, 2013
A new sports car from Jaguar, the iconic British brand that has sports
cars built into its 'DNA' like few others, is something that needs to be trumpeted out loud. Fortunately, the publicity
machine, aided and abetted by automotive media (including Next Car) ensured that the entire world - well almost -
would read about this new masterpiece from Jaguar. It would be called F-TYPE!
The anticipation of the new car's arrival was destined to be an exciting time for all those who got to see the new
car - even more so for those who experienced it on the road.
The Jaguar F-TYPE seems like a continuing story based on the famous E-TYPE of the 1960s. Of course, the E-TYPE itself
was a continuation of the brilliance of previous sports cars. Did I hear some-one say D-TYPE? So the lineage continues.
But the new F-TYPE is nothing like the classic E-TYPE. No apology needed, because the car market has moved on over
the decades. A 21st century E-TYPE would be good to see, but a modern day clean sheet design is always going to be the
way to go for the Jaguar brand. Hence, the new F-TYPE takes on the role of a more sophisticated car than that of decades
ago. Long live the E-TYPE I say, but welcome to the new F-TYPE complete with an exciting visual effect, thrilling engine
choices and a brilliant heritage that requires not one word of justification.
Let's drive the new Jaguar F-TYPE.
Test Car particulars
The Jaguar Australia supplied test car came in what is a must see colour, known as Firesand. This optional colour is,
I believe, the most attractive colour available and it will enhance any driveway or highway.
Our test car was the Jaguar F-TYPE S. This means it was the mid-spec model, powered by a V6 supercharged engine.
Prices*
Our test car came with numerous options of the worthwhile variety and some that can be passed aside at the time of
ordering your own F-TYPE. The starting price* for the F-TYPE V6 S is $171,045*. A lot of money for a two seater. But given
that the F-TYPE is a quality premium sports car I suggest that, if anything, it may be priced a little low. But then
Jaguar is recognised as offering good value - you only need to check-out the XF to recognise that!
Options on the test car were:
- Valet Mode $330*
- Interior Stowage – Lockable with Cover $590*
- Heated Seats $1,110*
- Performance Seats $2,730*
- Black Brake Callipers $960*
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System $750*
- Dual Zone Climate Control with Air Filter $980*
- Rain Sensing Windscreen Wipers $510*
- Adaptive Headlamps $1,500*
- Stainless Steel Pedal Covers $590*
- Switchable Active Sports Exhaust $260*
- Special Paint Charge $5,620*
- Interior Black Pack $4,390*
- Seat Memory Pack 2 $2,040*
- Parking Pack $1,725*
- Premium Leather Interior $3,970*
- Exterior Black Pack $1,280*
Therefore, the test car had a price* of $205,480* - and worth every cent of it!
Variants
Three versions of the Jaguar F-TYPE are on offer. As we indicated on the 1st August 2013, when choosing your F-TYPE you
simply select 0-100 km/h in 5.3 seconds or 0-100 in 4.9 seconds or 0-100 in 4.3 seconds. It is your choice. The three
models are, respectively, F-TYPE, F-TYPE S and F-TYPE V8 S.
Driving the Jaguar F-TYPE S
Without doubt, you will be popular if you drive an F-TYPE. We discovered that on numerous occasions as we ventured out
and about. Make no doubt, the new Jag sports car is all about enjoying the chore of driving. Just getting into the car is
enough to put a smile on the dial. With a happy disposition and a Jaguar wrapped around you then setting off on your
motoring adventure or commute is always going to be a thrill.
The exhaust note is more discreet than raucous. The ride is adequately firm and the driving dynamics confirm you are
always going to enjoy responsible motoring in this car. The steering and braking are superb!
As a reminder, we reiterate the F-TYPE S covers a 0 to 100 km/h dash in as little as 4.9 seconds if you are so
inclined to put your foot down. You can't get a thrill a minute when the 0-100 takes just 4.9 seconds! But what an
amazing quality for a car to have quoted amongst its credentials.
The Jaguar F-TYPE is low slung, so precautions such as angling the car and reducing your speed is required at speed
bumps, driveways and sharply angled approaches/departure areas such as ferries and the other restrictive access points.
Overall, the driving aspects have to be rated as civilised, which is an important aspect if you are to enjoy the car
during 'everyday' conditions or those week-end joy rides.
Living with the Jaguar F-TYPE S
There is one thing that is immediately recognised when you get in an F-TYPE - and that is that there is just enough
room for the driver and one passenger. As appealing as this Jaguar is, it has to be accepted that you will not be
burdened with too much space. The comfort level is quite good for two occupants. But the occupants should not expect
carry-on luggage (if we can call it that) to be easily accommodated. There is no room behind the front seats and the door
pockets are small. With two occupants on board, an attaché case and/or large handbag will need to go into the small boot
which is dominated by the centrally positioned spare wheel.
But we recognise that compromises can be made when you drive something as nice as the new F-TYPE. If you need a big
boot, then you may prefer a Range Rover. We motored around quite well during our week in the car without making a fuss
about the inability to fit more than a camera and a diary in the cabin.
In the 'S', the partially electrically adjustable seats have leather facings. Be assured, the seating was always
comfortable and from my perspective entry and egress was easier than anticipated. I found the eye-catching contrast
stitching in the test car quite appealing.
Twin cup-holders and a four-way adjustable steering wheel makes for a comfortable environment for each occupant.
The electric parking brake eliminates the necessity of a handbrake lever in the cabin - a great feature.
Hood up or down
Next Car experienced the car with a good mix of top up and top down. My longest single drive was from
Melbourne's southern bayside suburbs down the Mornington Peninsula to Rye, about 70 kilometres away. The outward bound
trip was with the top down, whilst the return trip was with the top up.
The obvious lack of scuttle shake, a haunting feature of many convertibles over the years, was particularly
pleasing.
Another attribute was the impressive fit of the soft top. Its operation could not have been easier. Wind noise over
the top was not over the top either. As shown in the accompanying images, the soft top folds away rather neatly. It is
electrically operated.
Driving with the top down is a great feeling. With my comb-over it is difficult to get that prized wind in the hair
effect. But be assured it is good for the mind to have an open top drive.
Whilst out and about, a teenager said to me "Nice car, Mister", I spontaneously responded "Yes, but
Confucius say old man with comb-over and summer sun not good combination with sports car". After a further brief
period of pleasant banter it hit me that even the Melbourne summer requires head gear for those who are follicly
challenged.
As always, when exposed to the sun adequate precautions need to be taken so that the enjoyment doesn't turn sour.
The Jaguar F-TYPE stands out. When I pulled into a crowded beachside car park I U-turned alongside a group of four or
five families having a bbq in the adjoining park. The head chef was quite close to the tarmac and very kindly invited me
to park the car and join them for lunch. I'm sure the car was the attraction, rather than me! As I had already had my
all-day breakfast for lunch, I respectfully declined and I continued on searching for a good photographic location. But
the chance meeting with such warm and friendly folks did further highlight the obvious fact that the new F-TYPE is an
extremely desirable machine.
Specifications
Just 3-litres of supercharged efficiency gets the F-TYPE S going. Power is rated at 280kW at 6,500 rpm and torque
comes in at 460Nm at 3,500 to 5,000 rpm.
The automatic transmission is an eight-speed unit.
Nineteen-inch 'propeller' alloy wheels are standard, as per the test car. Various 19" and 20" wheels are available
from the extensive options list.
Safety
Dynamic stability control; anti-lock braking system; electronic brake distribution; front and side airbags are all
standard. So, too, is a reversing camera and roll-over bars.
Fuel and emissions
Consumption for the F-TYPE S is rated at 9.1 litres/100 kilometres. The urban consumption is rated at 12.8
litres/100 kms.
The on-board trip computer indicated our consumption was 10 litres per 100 kilometres. We were happy with that as our
driving was almost all urban traffic conditions - a mix of highway and local streets - sometimes in heavily congested
circumstances.
The fuel tank capacity is 70 litres.
CO2 emissions rating is 213 grammes/kilometre on the 'combined cycle' for the 'S'.
Connectivity/Infotainment
An eight inch screen with navigation and the all important Bluetooth, USB and AUX connectivity are standard. As is the
ten-speaker sound system that includes a singe disc CD player.
Dimensions
Length: 4,470 mm
Width: 2,042 mm (including mirrors)
Height: 1,308 mm
Wheelbase: 2,622 mm
Kerb weight: 1,614 kg (approximately)
Boot capacity: 196 litres.
After Sales
Three year/unlimited kilometre warranty is featured and roadside assistance is available for the length of the
warranty (conditions apply).
A great feature is the inclusion of scheduled servicing for three years or 100,000 kilometres for the F-TYPE
(conditions apply). No price servicing sure beats capped price servicing!
Conclusion
Jaguar's new sports car is a particularly welcome addition to the world of motoring. If two seat motoring is on your
radar, then the F-TYPE S offers an exceptional experience equating to emphatic enjoyment day after day after day.
NOTE: * Manufacturer's List Price (MLP) excludes dealer delivery
fees and the numerous statutory charges (commonly known as on-road costs). Additionally, please note that all prices,
fees and charges are subject to change without notice, as are the specifications.
E&OE
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