2018 Jaguar F-type

Overview

The Jaguar F-type sits at the intersection of people who drive for the thrill of it and those who want everyone to know what they can afford. The F-type is available as a coupe or convertible, with a choice of a turbocharged inline-four or one of three supercharged V-6 engines. It's quick—fast, even—and can hold any driver’s attention through curving back roads, but it’s not as brisk or as dynamically proficient as some other cars in its class. For that, you’ll have to shell out for the wicked F-type R and SVR models, with 550 and 575 horsepower, respectively, from their supercharged V-8s. Horsepower aside, the F-type possesses one of the most distinctive and appealing exterior designs in recent memory, along with a cackling exhaust note that ensures heads will turn.

What's New for 2018?

The F-type now comes with a 296-hp turbocharged inline-four as its base engine. Other minor tweaks include full LED headlights, an updated front end, and a new R-Dynamic trim with 20-inch wheels and gloss-black exterior trim. Jaguar’s InControl Touch Pro infotainment system with navigation services is newly standard.

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Pricing

Original MSRP:

• Base: $60,895
• R-Dynamic: $82,195
• 400 Sport: $90,495

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The entry-level F-type is a rear-wheel-drive coupe with a 296-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Next in the lineup is a trio of supercharged V-6 powerplants tuned to 340, 380, or 400 hp, depending on the model. The two lesser V-6s can be bolted to either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the top-spec 400 must roll with the automatic. All-wheel drive is an option on the V-6s. The F-type looks hot and performs well, but it can’t quite match outstanding competitors such as the Chevrolet Corvette or Porsche Cayman. The F-type is athletic and responsive, a fun companion with which to charge down serpentine roads, but for a sports car, the steering effort is a bit light. The ride is firm but comfortable and mostly disguises harsh impacts.

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Fuel Economy

EPA fuel economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest and most accurate fuel economy numbers on current and older vehicles, we use the U.S. Department of Energy's fueleconomy.gov website. Under the heading "Find & Compare Cars" click on the "Compare Side-by-Side" tool to find the EPA ratings for the make, model, and year you're interested in.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Leather and suede front seats are standard in the F-type, with more premium leather available at extra cost. Electric adjustments for the seats and steering wheel position are standard, but dual-zone automatic climate control requires the purchase of a Climate package, which also adds heated seats, windshield, and steering wheel. The F-type’s passenger compartment is small, so there’s not much space for cubbies. It does have a roomy center console, but the trunk can hold just enough for a weekend getaway.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

Every F-type comes standard with the InControl Touch Pro infotainment system that includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, 380-watt audio, SiriusXM satellite radio, two USB ports, and a 12-volt outlet. The optional Connect Pro package adds 4G internet connectivity, real-time traffic information, and a smartphone app for remote control of certain vehicle features. The InControl Touch Pro system had no issues, but it didn't perform particularly well in our tests.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

For more information about the Jaguar F-Type’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty

Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.