The automobile industry is constantly being bombarded with new vehicles and designs. The goal for car makers is to make something that furthers their brand while also sustaining long-term sales. The sad truth is that many cars will burn half as long and twice as bright before fizzling out into obscurity.
Today we’re looking at the 2016 Jaguar F-Type, a revamped model of the F-Type meant to reinvigorate the consumer audience while also building the Jaguar brand and reminding people that it is still relevant.
The F-Type is a classically inspired model that acts as the successor to the E-Type. This new design has been a huge boost for Jaguar as a means of promoting their brand and successfully moving units. It’s no wonder that the company wants to keep this momentum going, so they’re pouring money into making that happen.
The goal here is to beat out the trend that these kinds of cars will come out of the gate strong, but sputter out after a second or third year. After just two years, the 2016 F-Type comes in with a new design and approach to reinvigorate the audience. Does it pay off? Let’s find out!
The 2016 F-Type Breakdown
On paper, this is what the F-Type brings to the table:
- Price: $65,995
- Engine: 3-liter supercharged v6, 6-speed manual, RWD
- Output: 340 hp at 6,500 rpm
- Weight: 3,455 lbs
- 0-60 mph: 5.1 seconds
- Fuel efficiency: 19/28/22 miles per gallon
Right off the bat, the ’16 F-Type model brings us a longer warranty, free schedule maintenance, and improvements for both the features of the car and the equipment. Two major features that will catch the gaze of automobile enthusiasts are the optional all-wheel-drive and the option for a conventional manual transmission.
The six-speed manual is only offered in the F-Type’s 3.0 liter V6 variation. This version is targeted to the US in order to compete with US car companies. In the Untied States, manual transmissions are the most popular in the world.
The F-Type’s six speed transmission is provided by ZF and uses an aluminum case, along with pressurized lubrication. This differs from the typical method of bathing and splashing. In this Jaguar, a mechanical pump sprays oil on the gear teeth, bearing, and synchronizer rings.
It adds a little weight, but ultimately this process reduces drag losses and uses far less lubricant. The all-wheel-drive is optional on the V6 F-Types with the eight-speed automatic. These 2016 Jaguar models will also be the first to include electric steering assistance.
According to Jaguar: “The technology has matured to the point where the degradation in feel no longer outweighs the efficiency gains.” The base 2016 F-Type will include a keyless start, 14-way full power seats and a 770-watt Meridian Surround Sound audio system.
The coupe variations will have a panoramic glass roof. The metal roof is no longer an option, but there’s an optional carbon-fiber roof panel for $3,200. The standard warrant also extends to five years, 60,000 miles which includes full maintenance.
Even with all of the included bells and whistles, the F-Types boast prices well below German car brands like Porsche and Audi. In 2014, Jaguar was able to sell over 4,000 F-Types in the United States which was a 83% increase over the sales in 2013. It may not seem like a lot, but that was over a third of the total U.S. sales for that year.
The True Test: How Does it Drive?
The feel of the 2016 Jaguar F-Type is a mixture of modern luxury and old school tropes. It doesn’t have quite the same level of finesse as its German competitors, but it’s still a powerful and exciting ride when you have an open road ahead of you.
The electronic steering assistance comes as a welcome upgrade when used in conjunction with the belt between the boost motor and steering shaft. This results in a more focused and communicative responsiveness to the steering.
Of course, it would be a crime not to praise the new manual transmission. A sports car purist will be in heaven with this inclusion. Many other manufacturers are staying away from manuals so for Jaguar to do this is a commendable decision.
In terms of purity, the F-Type V6 manual is the only model you’ll want to consider. It is the kind of car I could see driving on a daily basis and it never getting old. The only thing that is missed in this model is the 170 extra horsepower that the R model includes.
Should You Buy?
This question comes down to how you perceive sports cars. In truth, the F-Type doesn’t have the same level of sophistication or polish of the Porsche or Ferrari models in its class, and it’s not quite as comfortable either.
To the same point though, the 2016 Jaguar F-Type is less expensive than any of these other options, which makes it an easier pill to swallow. This car offers a solid and exciting package with a great warranty and maintenance package.
The manual transmission variant of the F-Type is a rare breed, a fine reason to pick up one of these as soon as possible.
Images via Jaguar
