We knew that Jaguar had the hardtop version of its stunning F-Type waiting in the wings for us at the Los Angeles International Auto Show, but the British icon still had some surprises to reveal.The F-Type Coupe was joined onstage by the F-Type R Coupe, with a serious boost in horsepower and performance.
The all-aluminum F-Type Coupe follows the same template as the excellent F-Type, and goes on sale next spring. Styling’s influenced heavily by the C-X16 concept shown in 2011, and the silhouette with the cabin pushed all the way to the back naturally creates comparisons to the classic E-Type coupe as well. As with the open-top version, the body sweeps and tapers dramatically toward the rear. A panoramic glass roof is available. Jaguar’s two-seat coupe is the brand’s new style and performance leader, and it should have a noticeable halo effect on the already-respectable lineup in terms of outright performance.
Powertrains are shared with the open F-Type, with a range of three V6 and V8 engines providing plenty of performance and just the right amount of drama. The F-Type R Coupe adds another level of performance, thanks to a supercharged 5.0 liter V8 under the hood making 550 horsepower. 0-60 times are in the four-second range, according to Jaguar. Carbon-ceramic brakes and an eight-speed Quickshift transmission are also part of the package. Jaguar’s definitely ready to go hunting for Porsche 911s and Corvette Stingrays.
The F-Type Coupe goes on sale early next year. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.
