Jaguar F-Type Review

• 2013 The F-Type is launched in a Roadster version only; with the choice of either a 374bhp supercharged V6 or a 488bhp V8 engine. 
• 2014 A Coupe version is added to the line-up but is only offered with the V6 engine to begin with, although 'S' trim models develop 374bhp, while the standard car develops 355bhp. The lack of folding roof means the Coupe is also treated to a functioning boot. It's small but useful. 
• 2014 The potent 'R' model arrives soon after with a 542bhp supercharged V8 engine. 
• 2015 The F-Type R convertible arrives, offering customers unrivalled power with the thrills of an open-top platform. 
• 2016 Minor tweaks to the interior see an improved sat nav system.

2.0-litre turbocharged, 3.0-litre supercharged, and 5.0-litre supercharged

The entry-level F-Type comes fitted with the same 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that’s found in the Jaguar XE and XF executive models. It was only recently introduced in response to demands for a more economical and tax-efficient engine. It produces an impressive 300hp and with a 0-62mph time of 5.4 seconds can see off most hot hatchbacks, but it lacks the aural excitement sports car drivers crave.

There is also the choice of 3.0-litre supercharged V6 petrol engines, one developing 340hp and the other 380hp. Like turbocharging, supercharging is a way of forcing more air into the engine for extra performance. The less powerful 340hp engine is not much more expensive than the 2.0 litre and is worth the extra money.

However, although it’s much more expensive than the V6 340hp engine, the more powerful V6 380hp unit is our favourite. Unlike the banzai 5.0-litre supercharged V8 that comes next in the engine line-up, it doesn't overwhelm the rear wheels at the slightest prod of the accelerator, meaning it inspires more confidence through twisting roads. It can be specified with a manual or automatic gearbox too.

Should they want greater traction on the road, buyers can opt to have all-wheel-drive with the V6 380hp engine. This combination is regarded as the sweet spot in the F-Type range, where hair-raising power meets razor sharp handling.

The 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine is offered in 550hp and 575hp outputs. The former is reserved for the R coupe and convertible, and the latter, the range-topping SVR, also in coupe and convertible forms. Both are only available with all-wheel drive and give the F-Type almost supercar levels of performance.

Standard, R-dynamic, R, SVR

Since the car was launched, Jaguar has raised the F-Type’s level of standard kit so that today, even the basic or standard F-Type has an active sports exhaust, xenon headlights, leather and suede-finished electric seats, a 10-inch trouscreen with sat nav and a premium Meridian sound system.

Move up to R-Dynamic and the xenons become LEDs and the centre console, aluminium. The more powerful 380hp version gets adaptive suspension, a smart limited slip differential for improved traction and 20in wheels. There are also electric seats.

A newly introduced trim level is Chequered Flag. It brings adaptive driving programmes, embossed sports seats, a heated steering wheel, red finishing for the brake callipers and a roof finished in a glossy black that’s a contrast to the body colour.

To cope with their extra power, F-Type R models are all-wheel drive as standard, have an even smarter limited slip diff, 20in wheels and a full leather interior. The range-topping SVR goes the whole nine yards with a lightweight exhaust, unique wheels, special seats and suede trim.

Climate packs, parking packs and even seat memory packs can be added to increase the amount of luxury and convenience lavished on the car but expect these to cost anywhere between £500 and £3,000.

The Jaguars of old often suffered with reliability issues and although the F-Type is a completely new car from a new era at Jag HQ, it seems the British marque can't escape its past. The F-Type made its debut on the Auto Express Driver Power satisfaction survey last year and ranked a reasonable 34th out of 200 cars.

However, it only came 72nd for reliability and 51st for build quality but Jaguar has some of the best customer service in the industry, so expect any problems to be dealt with quickly and efficiently.

New Jaguars come with a three-year, unlimited mileage warranty as standard, but you can pay to extend it for up to five years’ cover. The picture is pretty similar across the board in the premium sector.

Previously, budget-conscious buyers have avoided Jaguar sports cars due to the fact they have suffered with terrible residual values. Terrific styling and a driving experience to back it up means the same cannot be said of the F-Type.

There are currently 10 Jaguar F-Types available on BuyaCar, with prices ranging from £29,995 to £63,547 for nearly-new models. Monthly finance payments start from £499.05 per month.

A used F-Type is a great value way to get behind the wheel of the best British sports car in years. For example, the earliest, 2013 models with a supercharged V6 engine are now just dipping below the £30,000 mark - still a significant sum but it’s a lot more tempting than the £55,000 or so to buy a new model.

From there, unsurprisingly, the values depend greatly on the age, mileage and specification of the F-Type. Those who prefer the growl and power of the V8-powered F-Type will find used cars for sale from around £37,000.