Jaguar F-Type Convertible Review 2024

Jaguar F-Type Convertible At A Glance

4/5
Honest John Overall Rating
The Jaguar F-Type Convertible delivers an exhilarating blend of thrilling performance and exquisite looks, making it a viable alternative to some of the most exciting cars on the road.

+Stunning looks. Incredible sound. All-wheel drive versions are grippy and fun.

-Very little luggage space. Tiresome engine drone on motorway. Not as sharp to drive as a Porsche. Build quality concerns.

New prices start from £81,850
Insurance Groups are between 44–50
On average it achieves 100% of the official MPG figure

More than any other model before it, the Jaguar F-Type managed to step out of that huge shadow cast by the sensational Jaguar E-type. Vivid performance, great handling and good looks combined to make it a more than worthy rival to everything from the Ford Mustang, through the Porsche Boxster, and all the way to the Aston Martin V8 Vantage. It could even give the Audi R8 Spider a bloody nose. Read on for our full Jaguar F-Type Convertible review.

Much of the talk in the build-up to the launch of the Jaguar F-Type, which came as a convertible first with the coupé following a year later, was of it being the first true successor to the now legendary Jaguar E-type.

And while it’s true that the Jaguar F-Type can trace its lineage back to the E-type, it was in fact a direct replacement for the rather less legendary (although still very good) Jaguar XK.

The first clue was in the proportions – the Jaguar F-Type is shorter, lower and wider than the Jaguar XK – while even the basic 340PS V6 version served up a hard-edged soundtrack that out-screamed virtually everything else on the road.

And of course, with the top down the whole sensation is amplified.

Yet the Jaguar F-Type Convertible still makes a convincing, largely comfortable touring car while providing much of the sheer driving brilliance of a Porsche Boxster or Porsche 911 – models that are both realistic alternatives because of the breadth of the British car’s model line-up.

The expansive Jaguar F-Type Convertible range started with a 340PS 3.0-litre supercharged V6, equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox and rear-wheel drive.

It topped out with the Jaguar F-Type Convertible SVR model – a four-wheel-drive 575PS supercar lite with a 5.0-litre supercharged V8, a 195mph top speed and 0-62mph in 3.7 seconds.

Over time, Jaguar added other engines, including a 300PS 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit.

Offered with rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive in different models, there’s a Jaguar F-Type Convertible for almost every hue of driver.

With production ceasing in 2024, it is also a tantalising used car prospect.

Fancy a second opinion? Read heycar's Jaguar F-Type review here.

Jaguar F-Type Convertible handling and engines

Driving Rating
This is why you buy a Jaguar F-Type Convertible – the way it goes, corners, and makes you feel while doing so. It’s fantastic to drive, with sensational performance, and sounds brilliant.

Jaguar F-Type Convertible 2024: Handling and ride quality

The key question is whether the Jaguar F-Type can dethrone the dynamic benchmark for two-seat, open-top sports cars, the Porsche Boxster. And the straight answer is: no, it can’t.

But the Jaguar F-Type Convertible gets very close indeed – and crucially – it offers its thrills in a far warmer and more visceral way.

That’s because it has character. It sounds incredible, roof up or down, its steering has feel and accuracy without being over-weighted, and it very effectively communicates what’s happening on the ground beneath without winding the suspension up too tight.

There’s depth to the driving experience, with strong grip and natural rear-wheel-drive agility making for a very balanced, nuanced feel through the steering wheel.

Yet because the ride is relatively supple, the Jaguar F-Type Convertible is perfectly suited to being driven passively, at urban or motorway speeds.

The other key question is: rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive?

In lower-powered versions, the extra weight of the AWD system makes them slightly slower to the 62mph benchmark (the R model excluded, with the extra grip taking it from a 4.2-second sprint to 4.1 seconds).

This could be a negative. But Jaguar has tuned the AWD system to be rear biased, so those variants largely feel the same as their rear-wheel drive counterparts, but with the additional security of four-wheel traction.

For that reason, the AWD versions can be enjoyed more, and more of the time, by drivers of all abilities.

Jaguar F-Type Convertible 2024: Engines

Much of the Jaguar F-Type Convertible’s pleasure comes from simply hitting the rev limiter because, whether a V6 or V8 version, or even the 2.0-litre, the tailpipes emit some of the greatest noises in modern motoring.

Loud at idle and progressing to an off-the-chart bellow as the revs rise, the Jaguar F-Type Convertible pops, bangs, crackles and wails outrageously. 

The only downside to this, and particularly evident in the convertible – rather than the more insulated coupe – is that the slightly boomy tone can become tiresome on the motorway.

The Jaguar F-Type Convertible comes with a loud button for the exhaust, which it’s best not to press during long 70mph stretches.

Every model comes with a Dynamic Mode button as well, which weights up the steering, sharpens the throttle and, on automatic cars, holds onto gears longer.

We’d certainly recommend the automatic, because despite being a less ‘pure’ proposition than the six-speed manual, the eight-speeder is very quick to shift and adds to the sense of comfort and luxury, without diminishing its dynamic panache.

To bolster that view, note that the 340PS entry-level model takes 5.7 seconds to hit 62mph with a manual, or 5.3 seconds with the auto.

It’s the 380PS S model that stands out as the most astute purchase, using the same 3.0-litre V6 as the standard car but dropping the 0-62mph time to 4.9 seconds (with an auto, or 5.5 with a manual), while adding adaptive damping to exaggerate either dynamic characteristics or comfort, depending on choice.

The 5.0-litre supercharged V8 models get that too and are automatic only.

The 550PS R model, meanwhile, is available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and the SVR is AWD-only.

These versions dial up the bass and the volume from the exhaust pipe, while their enormous torque advantage (700Nm in the SVR versus 460Nm in the V6 S) makes them feel even more rapid from take-off than their diminished 0-62mph times alone suggest.

Jaguar also offered a 450PS version of the V8, although it’s hard to see why you would want a slightly less powerful version of this engine.

At the other end of the scale, the 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine comes with 300PS and sees off 0-62mph in 5.4 seconds, so it’s no sluggard.

It will also top out at 155mph, and it feels very swift through the gears whether you choose the six-speed manual or eight-speed auto. In this model, there is a strong argument for the manual, for its greater involvement with the less potent engine.

Jaguar F-Type Convertible 2024: Safety

The Jaguar F-Type was never submitted to Euro NCAP crash tests, but all models come with four airbags, ESP traction and stability control, and ABS anti-lock brakes, while blind spot monitoring was an option.

The car also has a pop-up bonnet to protect pedestrians in a collision.

When the car was updated in 2019, it received lane keep assistance, automatic emergency braking, traffic sign recognition and blind spot assist to keep it on a par with newer rivals.

Jaguar also provided its Torque Vectoring system as standard with the V8. This adjusts the amount of power going to each wheel to maintain traction and balance, while helping the handling.

Jaguar F-Type Convertible 2024: Towing

Unsurprisingly, the Jaguar F-Type Convertible is not rated for any towing capacity with or without a braked trailer.

Bang goes your dream of rolling up on holiday in your Jaguar sports car complete with caravan. 

Engine MPG 0-62 CO2
2.0i 300 Automatic 36 mpg 5.7 s 163–184 g/km
3.0 340 27–29 mpg 5.5–5.7 s 234 g/km
3.0 340 Automatic 27–34 mpg 5.1–5.7 s 199–234 g/km
3.0 380 29 mpg 5.3 s 234 g/km
3.0 380 Automatic 27–33 mpg 4.8–5.5 s 203–234 g/km
3.0 380 Automatic AWD 28–32 mpg 4.9–5.1 s 211–233 g/km
3.0 400 Automatic 33 mpg 4.9 s 203 g/km
3.0 400 Automatic AWD 32 mpg 5.1 s 211 g/km
5.0 V8 450 - 4.6 s 244 g/km
5.0 V8 450 AWD - 4.6 s 244–252 g/km
5.0 V8 495 26 mpg 4.3 s 259 g/km
5.0 V8 550 26 mpg 4.0 s 269 g/km
5.0 V8 550 AWD 25–26 mpg 3.9–4.1 s 269 g/km
5.0 V8 575 AWD - 3.7 s 252 g/km
5.0 V8 575 SVR AWD 26 mpg 3.7 s 269 g/km
5.0 V8 Project 7 26 mpg 3.8 s 275 g/km
5.0 V8 SVR AWD 25 mpg 3.5 s 269 g/km
P300 - 5.7 s 184–218 g/km
P450 - 4.6 s 240–243 g/km
P450 AWD - 4.6 s 247 g/km
P575 AWD - 3.7 s 239–252 g/km

Real MPG average for the Jaguar F-Type Convertible

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

100%

Real MPG

22–33 mpg

MPGs submitted

17

Jaguar F-Type Convertible interior

Interior Rating
Practicality plays second fiddle to style in the Jaguar F-Type Convertible’s cabin. The driving position is sublime, but luggage capacity is at a minimum. And the build quality can’t quite match the standards of its key German rivals.
Dimensions
Length 4470–4519 mm
Width 1923–2042 mm
Height 1307–1319 mm
Wheelbase 2620–2622 mm

Full specifications

Jaguar F-Type Convertible 2024: Practicality

The Jaguar F-Type Convertible is by no means a practical car. Although the fairly simple electric folding roof disappears quickly, resting uncovered just behind the rear bulkhead, it eats into the boot space.

From 310 litres in the Jaguar F-Type Coupe to 207 litres here, what little space you have is largely obliterated if there’s a spare wheel in there.

Still, the cabin is spacious, with enough seat adjustment to accommodate the longest-legged and only a small headroom deficit compared to the coupe.

This really is one of the great driving positions, with a small steering wheel and seats set virtually below the door sill. The Jaguar F-Type Convertible is a car you truly sink into.

For that reason, the gearstick – or joystick-style selector in an automatic, as opposed to the rotary dial that Jaguar saloons have – feels high-set and very close to the steering wheel.

The standard seats are also a lesson in ergonomic comfort, while the sports seats of S models and above grip driver and passenger more tightly without ever being uncomfortable – even the dramatic racing buckets of the Jaguar F-Type Convertible SVR, which are finished in quilted leather.

All-in-all the cabin has the feeling of racing car architecture, but because it’s smothered in soft-touch leather and highlighted by gloss black and metallic trims, the result is a nice blend of sportiness and luxury that gets most things right.

On the road, the fabric hood dampens noise effectively, and folds in just 12 seconds into a compact, uncovered section that not only negates the need for a movable metal cover, but looks great.

The car was launched as a convertible first, and genuinely looks like it was designed that way, rather than simply being a chop-top coupe.

That feeling translates on the road, too, because the Jaguar F-Type Convertible never seems to suffer from any particular chassis twist or shake with the roof down. 

Jaguar F-Type Convertible 2024: Quality and finish

While the dials and switches feel solid, including the metal paddles for manual gear shifting in an automatic, some of the lower level stuff seems flimsy.

There is a sense that the Jaguar F-Type Convertible, somehow, isn’t built with the same level of obsession with panel gaps and material solidity that the best German models are.

Whether that’s sub-standard or characterful is your call, but we say it’s the latter. Certainly, once you press the pulsing engine start button and the powerplant fires up, the nuances of haptics are quickly forgotten.

Jaguar F-Type Convertible 2024: Infotainment

The Jaguar F-Type Convertible started out with the company’s InControl infotainment set-up, which was never the most intuitive.

The 10-inch central screen incorporates sat-nav, Bluetooth, USB connectivity and DAB.

In addition to the main infotainment screen, the instruments were later replaced by a 12.3-inch interactive display, which offers configurability to show maps, switch between music tracks and much more.

In 2016, Jaguar upgraded the infotainment with a new InControl Touch system with eight-inch screen, clearer graphics, 3D maps and easier integration with your smartphone.

For the 2019 facelift, Jaguar brought in a 12.3-inch reconfigurable Interactive Driver Display in place of the original dash instruments.

It offers a choice of different display modes, including full map mode. As befits a true sports car, the default mode is characterised by the large central rev counter.

Jaguar F-Type Convertible value for money

Value for Money Rating
Prices and running costs vary wildly depending on which Jaguar F-Type Convertible you go for, and how old it is. But for most, the sheer pleasure it provides will be worth the investment.

Jaguar F-Type Convertible 2024: Prices

Buying a Jaguar F-Type Convertible new demands deep pockets.

Even the most affordable is almost £72,000 and you can easily pump that up to more than £110,000 for the R 75 Plus version.

However, that still looks like decent value next to cars with matching performance, such as the Aston Martin Vantage and Porsche 911.

On the used market, a V6 or V6 S with less than 80,000 miles could be yours for around £20,000 for an early model. Go for a V8-powered Jaguar F-Type Convertible and that rises to around £28,000.

A 2.0-litre model will be quite hard to find as new buyers preferred the meatier engines, so pay from £30,000 for a six-year-old car with 20,000 miles showing.

Or you could have a two-year-old V8 with 15,000 miles on the clock for £50,000.

Jaguar F-Type Convertible 2024: Running Costs

Nobody said owning a Jaguar sports car was going to be easy on the wallet, and even the 2.0-litre model sups petrol at a rate claimed at 35.8mpg.

Move to the V6 and V8 models and that becomes 28.8mpg and 25.9mpg respectively.

The 2.0-litre engine emits 184g/km and most were sold after 1 April 2017, so you’ll pay the flat rate of £180 for road tax.

As with all Jaguar F-Type Convertibles up to five years old, you will also have to factor in the additional £390 payment for cars that cost more than £40,000 when new.

An early V8 model will require road tax of £695 per year, while the V6 is fractionally cheaper at £675.

Insuring a Jaguar F-Type Convertible will be another big bill to swallow, as the range sits in groups 44 to 50 (out of a total of 50).

The V8s land in the highest bracket due to their power and performance.

Keeping your Jaguar F-Type Convertible in good shape will be expensive compared with a family hatch, but next to most supercars, the prices are reasonable.

Jaguar dealers will be many owners’ first port of call, and there is a legion of independent specialists who can help at keener rates.

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Jaguar F-Type Convertible models and specs

The Jaguar F-Type Convertible has been around for so long that the spec choices are extremely wide and rather confusing.

When it was launched, it came in standard, S and R trims that were linked to which engine was under the bonnet.

The base Jaguar F-Type Convertible offered twin tailpipes, 18-inch wheels, sports suspension, part-leather and Suedecloth upholstery, plus a leather steering wheel. It also has an eight-inch touchscreen for the infotainment.

The Jaguar F-Type Convertible S added an Active Sports Exhaust, Adaptive Dynamics, High Performance Braking System and 19-inch alloy wheels. Ceramic brakes were an option for this model.

The Jaguar F-Type Convertible R enjoyed Torque Vectoring, the Super Performance Braking set-up, Quickshift automatic transmission, gloss black exterior trim and 20-inch alloy wheels.

It also has sports seats finished in leather with the ‘R’ logo embossed into the headrests, plus leather covering the centre console, dash, and door trims. A flat-bottomed steering wheel was standard, and ceramic brakes were an optional extra.

The 2019 facelift saw the introduction of four different trim levels, spanning three different engine choices.

Jaguar F-Type is standard specification for the convertible and coupe with the P300 engine, while R-Dynamic is standard specification for the P450 and available on the P300.

All Jaguar F-Type versions come with electrically adjustable sports seats with leather and suede finishing, LED headlights, a Meridian sound system, interactive driver display, climate control and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Jaguar F-Type R-Dynamic adds 19-inch alloy wheels to the P300, while the P450 gets 20-inch items, an R-Dynamic body kit, a switchable Active Exhaust and Configurable Dampers and an Electronically Controlled Active Differential. 

Jaguar F-Type First Edition cars get 12-way electrical seat adjustment, 20-inch wheels, smarter interior leather and suede coverings and First Edition metal treadplates, as well as a Dark Satin Grey exterior design pack. 

The Jaguar F-Type R gets R branded highlights throughout, keyless entry and an R specific body kit.

The final trims are Jaguar F-Type R-Dynamic Convertible Plus, which has 20-inch alloys, electric seat adjustment, Ebony leather upholstery, heated seats, a 10-inch Touch Pro infotainment touchscreen, keyless entry, climate control, Meridian stereo and a black exterior pack.

The Jaguar F-Type 75 adds configurable cabin lighting, extended leather upholstery, 12-way electric seat adjustment and Nubuck-edged carpet mats.

The range is topped by the Jaguar F-Type R 75 with its R bodykit, R-branded steering wheel, ventilated seats, limited edition aluminium instrument panel finish and Torque Vectoring.

Dimensions
Length 4470–4519 mm
Width 1923–2042 mm
Height 1307–1319 mm
Wheelbase 2620–2622 mm
Miscellaneous
Kerb Weight 1545–1868 kg
Boot Space 196–233 L
Warranty 3 years
Servicing 16000 miles
Spare Wheel
Standard Tyre-repair kit
Costs
List Price £81,850–£105,995
Insurance Groups 44–50
Road Tax Bands G–M
Official MPG 25.0–35.8 mpg
Euro NCAP Safety Ratings
Adult -
Child -
Pedestrian -
Overall 5

Currently on sale

Roadster
Version List Price MPG 0-62
2.0 i4 300PS R-Dynamic Auto 2dr - - 5.7 s
75 P450 V8 S/C AWD Quickshift Auto Start/Stop 2dr £86,810 - -
75 P450 V8 S/C Quickshift Auto Start/Stop 2dr £81,850 - -
75 Plus P450 V8 S/C AWD Quickshift Auto Start/Stop 2dr - - -
75 Plus P450 V8 S/C Quickshift Auto Start/Stop 2dr - - -
R 75 P575 V8 S/C AWD Quickshift Auto Start/Stop 2dr £105,995 - -
R 75 Plus P575 V8 S/C AWD Quickshift Auto Start/Stop 2dr - - -
R-Dynamic Plus P300 i4 Quickshift Auto Start/Stop 2dr - - -
ZP Edition P575 V8 S/C AWD Quickshift Auto Start/Stop 2dr - - -

On sale until December 2022

Roadster
Version List Price MPG 0-62
2.0 i4 300PS Auto 2dr - - 5.7 s
2.0 i4 300PS First Edition Auto 2dr - - 5.7 s
5.0 V8 450 Supercharged First Edition Auto 2dr - - 4.6 s
5.0 V8 450 Supercharged R-Dyn Auto AWD 2dr - - 4.6 s
5.0 V8 450 Supercharged R-Dynamic Auto 2dr - - 4.6 s
5.0 V8 575PS Supercharged R Auto AWD 2dr - - 3.7 s
5.0V8 450 Supercharged First Edition Auto AWD 2dr - - 4.6 s
Heritage 60 Edition P575 V8 S/C AWD Quickshift Auto Start/Stop 2dr - - 3.7 s
R-Dynamic Black P300 i4 Quickshift Auto Start/Stop 2dr - - 5.7 s
R-Dynamic Black P450 V8 S/C AWD Quickshift Auto Start/Stop 2dr - - 4.6 s
R-Dynamic Black P450 V8 S/C Quickshift Auto Start/Stop 2dr - - 4.6 s

On sale until July 2020

Roadster
Version List Price MPG 0-62
2.0 i4 300ps Auto 2dr £57,405 35.8 mpg 5.7 s
2.0 i4 300ps Chequered Flag Auto 2dr £67,185 35.8 mpg 5.7 s
2.0 i4 300ps R-Dynamic Auto 2dr £61,105 35.8 mpg 5.7 s
3.0 V6 340ps Supercharged 2dr £60,405 27.4 mpg 5.7 s
3.0 V6 340ps Supercharged Auto 2dr £61,685 28.8 mpg 5.3 s
3.0 V6 340ps Supercharged R-Dyn Auto 2dr £65,385 28.8 mpg 5.3 s
3.0 V6 340ps Supercharged R-Dynamic 2dr £64,105 27.4 mpg 5.7 s
3.0 V6 380ps Chequered Flag Auto 2dr £77,565 28.8 mpg 4.9 s
3.0 V6 380ps Supercharged R-Dyn Auto 2dr £72,435 28.8 mpg 4.9 s
3.0 V6 380ps Supercharged R-Dynamic 2dr £71,155 26.6 mpg 5.5 s
3.0 V6 Supercharged 400 Sport Auto 2dr £76,150 32.9 mpg 4.9 s
3.0 V6 Supercharged Chequered Flag Auto 2dr £71,465 28.8 mpg 5.3 s
3.0V6 380 Supercharged R-Dyn Auto AWD 2dr £77,815 27.7 mpg 5.1 s
3.0V6 Supercharged 400 Sport Auto AWD 2dr £81,005 31.7 mpg 5.1 s
3.0V6 Supercharged Chequered Flag Auto AWD 2dr £82,935 27.7 mpg 5.1 s
5.0 V8 550ps Supercharged R Auto AWD 2dr £98,705 25.9 mpg 4.1 s
5.0V8 575ps Supercharged Svr Auto AWD 2dr £118,575 25.9 mpg 3.7 s

On sale until April 2017

Roadster
Version List Price MPG 0-62
3.0 V6 340ps Supercharged 2dr £57,260 28.8 mpg 5.5 s
3.0 V6 340ps Supercharged Auto 2dr £59,050 33.6 mpg 5.1 s
3.0 V6 380ps Supercharged S 2dr £66,260 28.8 mpg 5.3 s
3.0 V6 380ps Supercharged S Auto 2dr £68,050 32.9 mpg 4.8 s
3.0V6 380 Supercharged S AWD Auto 2dr £72,900 31.7 mpg 4.9 s
3.0V6 Supercharged British Design Edition AWD Auto 2dr £80,400 31.7 mpg 4.9 s
5.0 V8 550ps Supercharged R Auto 2dr £92,310 26.4 mpg 4.0 s
5.0 V8 Supercharged Svr AWD Auto 2dr £115,485 25.0 mpg 3.5 s
5.0V8 550 Supercharged R AWD Auto 2dr £97,165 25.0 mpg 3.9 s
Convertible 5.0V8 575 Supercharged Prj 7 Auto 2dr £135,000 26.4 mpg 3.8 s

On sale until January 2015

Convertible
Version List Price MPG 0-62
R 5.0 V8 495 Supercharged 2dr Auto £79,995 25.5 mpg 4.3 s

Model History

April 2012

Jaguar confirmed the F-Type

Utilising Jaguar's industry-leading knowledge of all-aluminium construction, the F-TYPE will launch as a convertible, and a strict two-seater with the focus uncompromisingly on delivering driver reward. A range of petrol engines will be available – including a new powerplant family – and all will deliver stunning sports car performance.

Today also marks the point that the F-TYPE's rigorous development schedule moves to final on-road testing, with engineering prototypes now leaving Jaguar's Castle Bromwich plant – the same plant at which the production cars will be built.

The F-TYPE will join Jaguar's existing range of cars – the XF saloon and Sportbrake, XJ saloon and XK coupe/convertible. Full F-TYPE technical and range details will be announced later in 2012. It will go on sale in mid 2013.

September 2013

Shown at Paris Motor Show in production form

Prices are £58,500 for base model supercharged V6 with 340PS and 450Nm torque, 0-60 in 5.1, top speed 161mph, 32.4mpg combined and 209g/km CO2.

£67,500 for supercharged V6S with 380PS, 460Nm torque, 0-60 in 4.8, top speed 171mpg, 31mpg combines and 313g/km CO2.

£79,950 for supercharged 5.0 V8 with 495PS, 425Nm torque, 0-60 in 4.3, top speed of 186mph, 25.5mpg combined and 259g/km CO2.

Like all Jaguar cars, the F-Type is front-engined and rear-wheel drive with Jaguar promising 'pure dynamic driving reward and stunning performance'. It certainly looks good on paper with the V8 version able to cover the 0-60mph benchmark in just 4.2 seconds with a top speed of 186mph. The 380PS F-Type S isn't far behind with a time of 4.8 seconds while the standard F-Type does it in 5.1 seconds.

All models get the same eight-speed Quickshift automatic gearbox but instead of the trademark Jaguar gear selector dial, the F-Type gets a more conventional gear lever, called SportShift, which lets the driver change gear manually as do steering wheel mounted paddles.

The gearbox has been tuned for the F-Type to give short and quick shifts and will also learn driving styles. So if you're driving with a bit of urgence it will make the shifts more aggressive and hold the gears till higher up the rev range. It also knows if you're going through a corner and will hold the correct gear for the exit.

The S versions have an active exhaust system which opens valves when accelerating to make the exhaust note even louder. V6-engined S models also have a Dynamic Launch control function, for the optimum in acceleration from a standstill. A mechanical limited-slip differential is standard on the F-Type S while the V8 S gets an active electronic differential to limit wheelspin and maximise traction.

The body of the F-Type is 10 per cent stiffer than the Jaguar XKR-S and it sits 20mm closer to the ground. The short overhangs and even weight distribution (even the battery and washer fluid reservoir have been moved to the boot) should mean excellent balance The F-Type also has the quickest steering rack ever fitted to a Jaguar.

Inside there's a small three-spoke steering wheel while a flat-bottomed version is available as an option. Eletrically adjustable sports seats are standard but buyers can upgrade to performance sats with extra side blosters for better support in corners.

Details on the outside include door handles that only 'deploy' when the car is unlocked, otherwise they remain flush with the body. There is also a hidden rear spoiler which raises at 60mph to increase rear downforce. V6 models get a twin centre exhaust pipe while the V8 has a quad exhausts as seen on the XKR and XFR.

Meanwhile the fabric roof lowers in just 12 seconds and works at up to 30mph. It has a multi-layer construction and like the roof of the new Porsche Boxster, features a layer of Thinsulate for better thermal and sound insulation.

February 2016

All wheel drive Jaguar F-Type SVR announced

£115,485 for the roadster and £110,000 for the coupe. Supercharged 5.0-litre V8 develops 575PS and 700Nm. 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds, with a top speed of 200mph for the Coupé.

Features include enhanced aerodynamics package of front bumper and splitter, flat underfloor, carbon fibre active rear wing and rear venturi reduces lift and drag. Uprated chassis features new dampers and anti-roll bars, wider tyres, lightweight 20-inch forged wheels and new, stiffer rear knuckles. Titanium and Inconel exhaust system delivers an even more purposeful, harder-edged sound – and a 16kg weight saving.

Unique SVR seats with Lozenge Quilt pattern, suedecloth-covered instrument binnacle and centre console, SVR steering wheel and anodised aluminium paddle shifters. Bespoke calibrations for the Quickshift transmission and the Electric Power-Assisted Steering, Adaptive Dynamics, Torque Vectoring, Dynamic Stability Control and All-Wheel Drive systems. Carbon Ceramic Matrix (CCM) brake system option delivers exceptional fade resistance and a 21kg reduction in unsprung mass. Whole vehicle weight saving of 25kg compared to the F-TYPE R AWD, and up to 50kg with options including the CCM brake system, carbon fibre roof panel and carbon fibre pack.

October 2018

F-Type Chequered Flag Edition launched

Highlights include a Windsor Leather interior featuring performance seats with embossed headrests, a Dark Brushed Aluminium centre console trim finisher and – in recognition of Jaguar’s motorsport successes – a steering wheel with discrete Chequered Flag logo and red leather band.

20-inch Gloss Black wheels with Diamond Turned finish are exclusive to the Chequered Flag with a red finish on the brake calipers. The Chequered Flag’s Ebony Windsor Leather interior is offered with contrast stitching in a choice of Red or Cirrus.

In place of the F-Type R-Dynamic’s Delta aluminium centre console trim, the Chequered Flag features a Dark Brushed Aluminium finisher. The texture and finish of this material perfectly complements the Ebony Windsor Leather.

The Touch Pro infotainment system features Meridian audio and, for the first time in the F-Type, Apple CarPlay and Android auto.

Power comes from the 300PS/400Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium petrol engine or the 340PS/450Nm and 380PS/ 460Nm supercharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engines. All offer an outstanding balance of responsiveness, power and efficiency – and all with a visceral soundtrack which reflects the F-TYPE’s truly driver-focused character.

Elsewhere, the F-Type has been refined, giving an improved level of ride comfort at low speed. This has been achieved by reducing the damping by 24% at the lower damping velocities, while increasing overall capacity by up to 30%. The rear camera and front park aid are now provided as standard across all derivatives.

January 2019

Black Edition announced

Black Editions are available across five Jaguar models: XE, XF, XF Sportbrake, E-Pace, F-Type and F-Pace. All Black Edition cars come fitted as standard with black alloy wheels, Black Pack, Privacy Glass and metallic paint – in a choice of colours – as standard.

December 2019

Jaguar F-Type facelifted

The range of engines includes four- and eight-cylinder options, all matched to eight-speed Quickshift transmissions with full manual control using either the SportShift gear selector or the steering wheel-mounted paddles. The manual gearbox is no longer available.

The updated F-Type also offers more driver-focused technology, including a reconfigurable, high-definition, 12.3-inch Interactive Driver Display, Touch Pro infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard and software-over-the-air functionality so future software updates can be made at the customer’s convenience, without having to visit a dealer. Two Meridian sound systems also offer enhanced sound reproduction.

The F-Type's has evolved with super-slim pixel LED headlights with subtly updated signature ‘Calligraphy’ J daytime running lights, and sweeping direction indicators. The ‘liquid metal’ surfacing of the new clamshell bonnet, exaggerates the car’s visual width and accentuates its assertive stance, says Jaguar. The new front bumper and subtly enlarged grille deliver even more visual impact and presence.

The rear haunches enhance the F-Type's inherently dramatic, purposeful form, while the new slender rear lights combine an unmistakable LED chicane signature, inspired by the Jaguar I-Pace all-electric Performance SUV, with subtle monogram pattern detailing and a fine ‘pinstripe’ beneath.

The interior features contemporary materials such as Windsor Leather and satin-finish Noble Chrome. Details include monogram stitch patterns in the seats and door trims, Jaguar Leaper motifs in the headrests, and subtle ‘Jaguar Est.1935’ markings on the centre console finisher, glovebox release button surround, and seatbelt guides.

The 12.3-inch reconfigurable Interactive Driver Display offers a choice of different display modes; including full map mode. As befits a true sports car, the default mode is characterised by the large central rev counter. This feature and the gearshift light subtly convey the F-Type's driver-focused character and performance potential.

All engines – 300PS turbocharged four-cylinder and 450PS and 575PS V8s – feature active exhaust systems, which are switchable either as an option or as standard. Customers who choose the 450PS or 575PS supercharged V8s benefit from the new Quiet Start function, which ensures a more subtle, refined sound – 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 distinctive crackle and pop on the overrun synonymous with F-Type, remains; the sounds meticulously tuned to suit the range of powerful four and eight-cylinder engines. Highly efficient, close-coupled particulate filters reduce emissions.

The new 450PS supercharged V8 has been developed to offer exploitable and rewarding performance – its maximum torque of 580Nm being generated from just 2,500rpm. It is offered with a choice of all-wheel drive and – for purists – rear-wheel drive. Both versions can accelerate from 0-60mph in just 4.4 seconds, and reach a maximum speed of 177mph.

Raising the output of the all-wheel drive F-Type R supercharged V8 to 575PS and 700Nm (up from 550PS and 680Nm respectively) delivers truly outstanding performance in all weathers and in all conditions, while retaining its inherent tractability and day-to-day usability. Performance is exceptional: the benchmark sprint to 60mph takes just 3.5 seconds, while maximum speed is an electronically-limited 186mph.

The F-Type R’s increased power is matched to a comprehensively uprated chassis with new, wider, 20-inch, 10-spoke wheels in Gloss Black with diamond-turned finish, and new adaptive dampers, springs, anti-roll bars and stiffer rear knuckles and ball joints, delivering even greater agility and responsiveness.

Taking all of the learning accrued from the development of the limited-edition 200mph Jaguar XE SV Project 8, the Quickshift transmissions in both the new F-Type R and the 450PS V8 models have been recalibrated for a more engaging driving experience. The new F-Type R specifically offers even faster, crisper gear changes when the driver commands shifts manually via the steering wheel-mounted paddles or the SportShift gear selector. Both upshifts and downshifts are more immediate and give an even more connected and responsive feel.

Customers also have the choice of the exclusive F-Type First Edition. Based on the
R-Dynamic models, the First Edition is offered for one model year only, and has refinements such as the Exterior Design Pack in contemporary Dorchester Grey and five-spoke, 20-inch wheels in Gloss Technical Grey with contrast Diamond-Turned finish, complementing the choice of Santorini Black, Eiger Grey or Fuji White paint.

The interior features 12-way Windsor Leather seats in Ebony with Light Oyster stitching, or Mars with Flame Red stitching. Other highlights include the instrument cluster wrapped in Alcantara with Monogram embossing, aluminium gearshift paddles, an Engine Spin centre console finisher with First Edition branding, and an Ebony Suedecloth headliner.

F-Type is built at Jaguar’s Castle Bromwich plant in the UK and the range consists of:

F-Type Coupé and Convertible:

  • 300PS 2.0-litre four-cylinder; Quickshift RWD
  • 450PS 5.0-litre V8; Quickshift; RWD/ AWD

F-Type R-Dynamic Coupé and Convertible:

  • 300PS 2.0-litre four-cylinder; Quickshift RWD
  • 450PS 5.0-litre V8; Quickshift; RWD/ AWD

F-Type First Edition Coupé and Convertible:

  • 300PS 2.0-litre four-cylinder; Quickshift RWD
  • 450PS 5.0-litre V8; Quickshift; RWD/ AWD

F-Type R Coupé and Convertible:

  • 575PS 5.0-litre V8; Quickshift AWD

December 2020

Jaguar F-Type Heritage 60 Edition priced from £122,500

Special edition F-Type will celebrate the diamond anniversary of the E-Type. It's based on the 575PS F-Type R, with solid Sherwood Green paint as a nod to the classic E-Type. Further highlights include exclusive heritage-inspired Gloss Black and Chrome accents and Diamond Turned Gloss Black 20-inch forged alloy wheels. The interior includes specially curated interior materials and features including bespoke duo-tone Caraway and Ebony Windsor leather, E-type-inspired aluminum console finisher and SV Bespoke commissioning plaque. Sixty hand-finished cars will be sold worldwide, in either Convertible or Coupé body styles.

April 2021

Jaguar F-Type R-Dynamic Black priced from £64,495

Based on the 300PS four-cylinder and 450PS V8 R-Dynamic Coupé and Convertible, the Jaguar F-Type R-Dynamic Black features a Black Exterior Pack and 20-inch, five split-spoke wheels with gloss black finish. Complementing these is the choice of three metallic paints: Santorini Black, Eiger Grey or Firenze Red.

Inside, the slimline Performance Climate Seats feature 12-way adjustment and are trimmed in Windsor leather with a choice of Ebony with Light Oyster contrast stitching or – for a more sporting theme – Mars with Flame Red stitch.

October 2022

Jaguar F-Type 75 special edition celebrates the F-Type's final year in production

For the final Model Year, on sale from early 2023, the Jaguar F-Type range has become simpler and more focused, making it easy for customers to select their perfect F-Type. The car looks more purposeful and assertive than ever too, with 20-inch wheels standard on all models, and discreet detail changes such as the wheel centres and grille badge changing from red to black, and the R and R-Dynamic badge accent colours now black and grey instead of red and green.

To mark the final Model Year of F-Type and 75 years of Jaguar sports cars, customers can choose the new F-Type 75 or F-Type R 75 special editions. These are distinguished by unique interior and exterior design elements, carefully curated specifications, and – of course – the supercharged 5.0-litre Jaguar V8 engine.

What to watch out for

28-09-2017:

On X152 Jaguar F-Type 2016 build Service Indicator Message not Displaying (Campaigns H007 / N010 / N020). SIM message not displaying. The issue lies with an incompatibility between the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and the Instrument Cluster during certain starting conditions. The Instrument Cluster reads the service interval to judge if a message should be displayed at the point where Power mode changes to crank or engine running. Whilst ignition is in accessory mode, the PCM can return to sleep mode. It will then be re-awoken when cranking is requested and at that point will send out an initial value for mileage to service of 32,000km meaning the message will not appear.

23-08-2018:

Report of engine failure in July 2018 of 2015 Jaguar F-Type bought used as an ex-demonstrator in March 2017 at 6,000 miles. Engine replaced by the supplying dealer after some delay, workmanship left a lot to be desired and new engine was not running smoothly.

20-11-2018:

Report of 2013 Jaguar F-Type V6 developing a misfire at 41,000 miles. Dealer car was bought from diagnosed 2 spark plugs failed and changed all 6. 20 miles later misfire re-appeared on cylinders 4 and 5. Dealer then diagnosed an injector problem on cylinder 4 but snapped the injector off in the cylinder head by using a slide hammer to remove it. Dealer is now quoting £6000+ to replace the cylinder head and all ancillaries.

06-06-2019:

Report of fault developing with 2010 Jaguar XK X150 5.0 V8 at 101,000 miles that had been subject to extended dealer service intervals. This could become a general problerm with Jaguars and RangeRovers fitted with this engine. Yellow engine warning light on dash and restricted performance. OBD revealed code P0016: crank-cam position correlation fault. Jaguar dealer diagnosed that the engine was running rough on cold with timing fully advancing on driver's side bank to counter a timing problem. Suspected that timing chain has become slack due to premature wear on tensioners and guides. Replacement of timing chain involves dismantling front end of car: a 13 hour job (at Jaguar dealer prices - best part of £2k). Parts (timing chain kit and crank/cam sprockets) come to £2,600 which will be the same regardless of where it's being repaired as they must be Jaguar sourced. Full quote from Jaguar dealer £4,300. Recommended to change spark plugs, water pump and coolant at same time at a slight additional cost. Several independent Jag specialists consulted. Most won't attempt the job. Some had already had to do this a couple of times using specialist tools. Those that have had agreed that this is likely due to low viscosity 5W20 oil not providing sufficient lifetime protection. All suspect that this is going to become an emergent problem with the 5.0 V8 unit as cars approach higher mileages.

18-09-2019:

Report of "mild knocking noise" on tick-over when starting an 11k mile 2017 Jaguar F-Type from cold. Appears to come from lower right of the engine.

What does the Jaguar F-Type Convertible cost?