JAGUAR has expanded the F-Type line-up with new all-wheel drive versions and is also offering its popular sports car with a manual gearbox for the first time.
The changes boost the number of models in the F-Type range from six to 14 variants. At the same time, a 550 PS F-Type R Convertible replaces the previous 495 PS V8 S Convertible model.
The manual gearbox option is only available on rear-wheel drive V6-engined F-Type models. The ZF-based transmission has six speeds and the engineers have given the short-travel gear lever a “throw” of only 45mm. The company says that the pedal positioning is ideally set up for heel-and-toe changes as well. Manual models are £1,800 cheaper than their automatic counterparts.
The new all-wheel drive (AWD) option is available on V8-engined models and the more powerful of the V6 variants, the V6 S, and commands a premium of £4,850. In AWD form, the 550PS F-Type R Coupé will accelerate from rest to 60mph in 3.9 seconds; top speed is artificially limited to 186mph. Jaguar’s Intelligent Driveline Dynamics (IDD) control system is designed to ensure that the AWD models retain a rear-wheel “feel”. All-wheel drive F-Types can be recognised by their modified bonnet design which has a deeper ‘power bulge’ and new vents.
