Jaguar designers have sharpened their pencils to come up with a styling revise for the new F-Type and, where the original paid homage to the old E-Type, the new look firmly establishes the ‘F’ with unique looks of its own.

The range of engines includes four, six and eight-cylinder options, all matched to eight-speed Quickshift transmissions with full manual control using either the SportShift gear selector or the steering wheel-mounted paddles.

The new F-Type also offers more driver-focused technology, including a reconfigurable, high-definition, 12,3-inch TFT instrument cluster, Touch Pro infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard and software-over-the-air functionality so future software updates can be made at the customer’s convenience without having to visit a Retailer. Two Meridian sound systems also offer enhanced sound reproduction.

Julian Thomson, Design Director, Jaguar, says: “Design the most beautiful sports car, with purity, proportion and presence that is unmistakably Jaguar: that was the challenge we set ourselves. The new F-Type is more dramatic than ever, with even greater clarity of purpose in every line, surface and feature, and embodies true Jaguar design DNA.

“State-of-the-art technologies together with luxurious materials and finishes deliver beauty with purpose in an interior which will delight driver and passenger alike even before the engine starts and the journey begins. Jaguar has been making sports cars for more than 70 years, and that rich heritage has inspired the team to create something truly extraordinary.”

Super-slim pixel LED headlights (only on Type R versions) with subtly updated signature ‘Calligraphy’ J daytime running lights and sweeping direction indicators, blend into the ‘liquid metal’ surfacing of the new clamshell bonnet, exaggerating the car’s visual width and accentuating its stance. The new front bumper and subtly enlarged grille deliver even more visual impact and presence.

The rear haunches are inspired by the Jaguar I-Pace all-electric Performance SUV, with subtle monogram pattern detailing and a fine ‘pinstripe’ beneath.

The interior combines traditional Jaguar craftsmanship with rich, contemporary materials such as Windsor Leather and satin-finish Noble Chrome. Details include monogram stitch patterns in the seats and door trims, Jaguar Leaper motifs in the headrests, and subtle ‘Jaguar Est.1935’ markings on the centre console finisher, glovebox release button surround, and seatbelt guides.

All engines – 22 1kW turbo-charged four-cylinder, 280 kW supercharged V6 and 423 kW V8 – feature active exhaust systems, which are switchable either as an option or as standard. Customers who choose the 423 kW supercharged V8 benefit from the new Quiet Start function, which ensures a more subtle, refined sound – the electrically-actuated bypass valves in the rear silencer remain closed until they automatically open up under load. If desired, Quiet Start can be over-ridden by selecting Dynamic Mode or by pressing the switchable exhaust button before starting the engine.

The distinctive crackle and pop on the overrun synonymous with F-Type, remains, the sounds meticulously tuned to suit the range of engines. Highly efficient, close-coupled particulate filters reduce emissions.

“The new F-Type is the definitive Jaguar sports car and continues to set the benchmark for design purity, driver engagement and reward, and a truly visceral driving experience – it makes every journey extraordinary,” says Alan Volkaerts, Vehicle Line Director, Jaguar F-Type

“Its timeless looks are more assertive than ever, technologies such as the high-definition virtual instrument cluster deepen the driver-focused feel of the interior, while the range of powertrains offers a breadth of choice unrivalled in the segment. Enthusiasts will appreciate the new F-Type R’s 423 kW supercharged V8, enhanced chassis and intelligent all-wheel drive system, which deliver truly outstanding performance in all conditions while retaining its inherent tractability and usability.”

Raising the output of the all-wheel drive F-Type R’s supercharged V8 to 423 kW and 700 Nm (up from 405 kW and 680 Nm respectively) comes with a comprehensively uprated chassis with new, wider, 20-inch, 10-spoke wheels in Gloss Black with diamond-turned finish and new adaptive dampers, springs, anti-roll bars and stiffer rear knuckles and ball joints.

The F-Type range will be introduced to sub-Sahara Africa next year and will consist of:

F-Type R-Dynamic Coupé and Convertible:

• 221 kW 2,0-litre four-cylinder; Quickshift RWD

280 kW 3,0-litre V6; Quickshift; RWD

F-Type First Edition Coupé and Convertible:

• 280 kW 3,0-litre V6; Quickshift; AWD

F-Type R Coupé and Convertible:

• 423 kW 5,0-litre V8; Quickshift AWD