May
15 2008 Jaguar
F-Type - British firm set to build cut-price Ferrari California. It
seems Ferrari isn’t going to have it all its own way, as Jaguar is also getting
ready to launch a stunning GT. Called
the F-Type, the stylish Brit is set to offer a similar driving experience to the
California, but at a much lower price. When it arrives in showrooms in 2012, it
will sit at the top of the brand’s sports car range – and be the first big cat
in many years to get close to capturing the spirit of the E-Type from the Sixties. The
newcomer takes much of its styling inspiration from the XF, the car which debuted
Jaguar chief stylist Ian Callum’s view for the future of the brand. It’s based
on a shortened version of the lightweight aluminium chassis from the new XJ, which
arrives in 2010. The F-Type will target Porsche’s 911, Aston Martin’s V8 Vantage,
Audi's R8 and Ferrari's new California. As
well as the drop-top shown here, which is likely to use a folding fabric roof,
there will be a coupé, too. Entry-level models are to be powered by a 4.2-litre
V8, while the range-toppers will get a 5.0-litre supercharged V8 producing about
500bhp. Thanks
to the car’s lightweight build, performance should be spectacular, with the sprint
from zero to 60mph taking around 4.5 seconds. Top speed is likely to be electronically
limited to 155mph, while power will be delivered through a standard six-speed
automatic gearbox with manual changes possible via steering wheel-mounted paddles. Like
all Jaguars, the F-type will serve up excellent handling and ride, making it a
blast to drive on twisty roads, but also a comfortable long distance companion.
An evolution of the firm’s hi-tech CATS adaptive suspension will be available,
using Audi-inspired magnetic dampers. Luxury
won’t be forgotten in the quest for sharp driving dynamics, though. A cabin influenced
by the XF will mix state-of-the-art with a more traditional feel. Wood and leather
will be joined by more modern materials such as carbon fibre and aluminium, to
create a stylish and cosseting cabin. Expect
the first production cars to arrive in 2012, with prices starting at around £70,000. |