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2014-2018 Jaguar F-Type Buyer’s Guide

December 5, 2018 by admin 5 Comments

You won’t find Jaguar calling the F-Type a tribute or spiritual successor model of the Jaguar E-Type, but in many ways it is.

Forty years after the earlier sports car was canceled, an all-new Jaguar F-Type model arrived in 2014. The F-Type has the long hood, rounded side body panels and the spheroid taillight touches of the earlier model, but beyond that Jaguar’s sports car is modern and ideally suited to take on such competitors as the BMW Z4, Porsche 911 and the Mercedes-Benz SLK Class.

Our Jaguar F-Type buying guide covers the first five years of this model’s run. Please use it if you’re shopping for a Jaguar F-Type.

Jaguar F-Type
The F-Type is Jaguar’s quintessential sports car.

A New Beginning

The 2014 Jaguar F-Type immediately served notice that a new British sports car not named McLaren or Lotus had arrived. But instead of a full frontal assault, Jaguar dipped its toes in the market, by presenting just one of the two expected body styles, and a convertible at that.

Further, Jaguar chose a conservative route with the F-Type’s powertrains and drivetrains, by holding off on the eventual manual transmission and all-wheel drive options expected.

But don’t think anything less of the 2014 Jaguar F-Type because of its modest debut. What you have is a stunningly handsome design marked by a large grille opening bordered by air intake chambers. Upwardly sloping headlamps with natty LED accent lights nearly complete the frontal presentation. Of course, we’d be remiss to forget the clamshell hood, a style which is also favored by such competitors as the Maserati Ghibli and Chevrolet Corvette.

A Matter of Design

Scan your eyes along the profile and the rounded panels dominate. Jaguar’s designers could have left well enough alone, but added an uninterrupted line that begins at the front of the car, crosses the front fender and door before fading away as it bends at the rear.

Jaguar F-Type
The evocative Jaguar F-Type’s profile view.

A second line flows from wheel to wheel, intersecting with a wheel vent before dipping as it bypasses the flush door handle. From the rear, the Jaguar’s haunch is marked by narrow wraparound tail lamps and dual exhaust tips centered within the rear diffuser.

Inside, cozy is the operative word. The seats, while comfortable and supportive, may not work for taller individuals. But they’re adjustable and that’s a saving grace for drivers who do fit inside. Attractively stitched leather, metallic accents and firm controls (which are ideally placed) underscore the attention to detail we expect. Never mind the stellar build quality inside and out.

Tech + Safety

Concerning technology matters, the Jaguar F-Type does a few things quite well. Beginning with the 2014 model, a 10-speaker audio system with a CD player, smartphone integration, a USB port, and an auxiliary jack are standard features. An 8-inch color touch-screen display is included. Optionally, Jaguar offers a 12-speaker audio package.

Various driver-assist features are available as part of an optional Vision Package. Here, you’ll find a rearview camera, blind spot monitoring, reverse traffic detection along with front and rear parking aids. An available adaptive front lighting system improves night visibility while cornering. Automatic high beams is another option.

Jaguar F-Type
This Jaguar’s center console includes an integrated passenger grab bar.

The 2015 model returned without technology changes. For 2016, the F-Type has a new telematics and connectivity suite, including automated emergency calling and smartphone connectivity. However, shoppers should know that at no time through this model’s first five years has Jaguar offered Android Auto or Apple CarPlay smartphone integration. As for 2017, the technologies remain the same.

Beginning in 2018, the F-Type has a new infotainment system, which features a tablet-style screen for controlling audio, navigation and other functions. GoPro camera integration is also new, which includes an app for producing video. An available forward-facing camera works with the Jaguar’s emergency braking system to enhance automatic braking. Adaptive speed limiter, traffic sign recognition and driver condition monitor are also new this year. Parallel parking assist is available.

Under the Hood

Jaguar and Land Rover are joined at the hip, therefore the engines and transmissions they offer are shared between these two iconic British brands.

From the onset, this Jaguar has offered both a supercharged V6 engine displacing 3 liters and a supercharged 5.0-liter V8. The standard engine makes 340 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, except in “S” models where it makes 380 horsepower.

Jaguar F-Type
What’s under the hood of your Jaguar?

The V8 engines deliver a blistering 495 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Both engines work alongside an 8-speed automatic transmission with rev-matching and paddle shift controls.

All F-Type models have a brake-based torque vectoring system, which contributes to a more planted feel when taking sharp corners. Further, V6 rear-wheel-drive models have a mechanical limited-slip differential, while V8 models have an electronically controlled version. Jaguar also includes a drive mode selector, which supplies switch-operated control under a variety of conditions, including rain, ice, and snow for better grip. On dry roads, the system adjusts transmission shifts and engine RPMs.

Charting the Performance Changes

Jaguar never hesitates to make changes to its halo F-Type sports car. Each subsequent model year seems to build on the previous one with those changes going beyond a simple update.

For its first year, the F-Type was available as a convertible only and in base, S, and V8 S trims.

For 2015, the coupe joined the ranks. It can be found in S and R editions, the latter sharing the same supercharged V8 found in the coupe, but with its performance kicked up to 550 horsepower and 502 pound-feet of torque. As before, all engines work with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Jaguar F-Type
A pronounced hump and quad tip exhaust tips.

All-Wheel Drive and a Manual Gearbox

Beginning in 2016, the F-Type received what some enthusiasts had long wanted: a six-speed manual gearbox. This manual delivers the quick shifts you’d expect in a sports car.

Also new this year is optional all-wheel drive. The automatic transmission is your singular choice here. Other changes include the discontinuation of the V8 S model and the introduction of electric power steering, which replaces the previous hydraulic system.

The changes for 2017 include the addition of two new trims. A new base model kicks things off, while an SVR trim is the new range-topper. In between, you’ll find Premium, S and R trims.

The SVR keeps the supercharged V8, but it also receives an exclusive bump in performance to 575 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. Moreover, the SVR features a specially tuned suspension, wider tires and wheels, and an optional carbon-fiber roof and carbon-ceramic brakes.

2018 Jaguar F-Type 400.
2018 Jaguar F-Type 400.

For its fifth year, the 2018 Jaguar F-Type gains a third engine. This one is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with an output of 296 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Jaguar pairs this rear-wheel-drive-only model with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine is the new fuel efficiency leader as it makes an EPA-estimated 23/30 mpg city/highway. Compare that with the V6 at 20/28 and the V8 at 15/24 and the difference are certainly noteworthy.

Also new for 2018 is a special “400 Sport” edition, which raises the V6’s performance to 400 horsepower. Lastly, Jaguar discontinued the S trim and rolled out an R Dynamic trim to replace it.

Jaguar F-Type Shopping

If you have your heart set on Jaguar’s sports car, you’re not alone. Some models, however, are much more difficult to find than others, especially those equipped with the manual transmission. Package options can affect pricing considerably, especially on the SVR trim.

All in all, the Jaguar F-Type is the type of sports car we expect from this British marque.


Jaguar F-Type
Thickly bolstered seats are ideal for the slaloms.

See Also — Strategic Vision: Tesla, Audi, Jaguar and Kia Top Quality Awards

Kelley Blue Book Third-Party Pricing Information


Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: Special Tagged With: all-wheel drive, buying guide, convertible, JAGUAR, JAGUAR E-TYPE, JAGUAR F-TYPE, Land Rover, MANUAL TRANSMISSION, rear-wheel drive, supercharged, turbocharged

Luxury Elevated: Range Rover Velar

February 27, 2018 by admin 4 Comments

Velar brings unparalleled luxury to the Range Rover line.

2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar
2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar in R-Dynamic trim.

Land Rover continues to make a name for itself, seemingly more so these days with its Range Rover line versus its Discovery range. That’s due mostly to an all-new Range Rover Velar model that simply rewrites the definition of what a luxury SUV is all about.

The 2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar burst onto the scene last summer, a model built on the same platform underpinning the all-new Jaguar F-Pace SUV. Yes, Jaguar and LandRover are one, but for this model, Jaguar took the lead and Land Rover followed. The duo shares a similar suspension, the same engines and an identical platform architecture, but the sheet metal is unique to each.

2018 Range Rover Velar Prices, Packages and Options

The 2018 Range Rover Velar is available in six grades: Velar ($49,900), Velar S ($54,700), Velar SE ($67,400), R-Dynamic SE ($60,100), R-Dynamic HSE ($67,600) and Velar First Edition ($89,300). Add $995 for the destination charge.

My test model was a 2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE with a base price of $77,100. That’s because it had one of six metallic paint choices (in this case, Byron Blue) adding $610 to the price. Two standard colors are included and then there are three additional metallic paints that cost $1,525 each.

2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar

Also adding to the price is an R-Dynamic Black Package ($635, with Narvik Black paint treatment on the hood vent blade, grille mesh and surround, fender blades and exhaust finishers), perforated Windsor leather seats ($4,575, with light oyster and ebony trim), light oyster suede cloth headlining ($920), a 1,600-watt Meridian sound system ($3,060) and a head-up display ($970).

When using Land Rover’s online price configurator to build a sample model, I wasn’t able to match the base price on the Monroney, so I figured some items were simply included in the price. Beyond what I already mentioned, my test Velar had an active locking rear differential ($1,125), satellite and HD Radio ($615), four-zone climate control ($870), an Interior Premium Textile Package ($715) and an On/Off Road Package ($580, with terrain response control and configurable dynamics), and other features.

The final price was $86,190, but it could just as easily have retailed for thousands more. Indeed, the Velar First Edition model with diamond turned finish wheels ($3,775) and Oxford Road Paint ($8,580) puts this model in six-figure territory. Fortunately, you can find a well-equipped Velar for under $75,000.

2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar

Velar Exterior Design and Highlights

As for the model at hand, the Velar is one of the most stunning vehicles ever to sport the Range Rover name. Certainly, the Evoque has the more flamboyant body style, but the Velar earns its own design plaudits, largely by retaining the brand’s captivating appearance, while opting for more rounded edges.

It represents a design distinction that marries traditional Range Rover looks with a thoroughly modern appearance — and it works. In the Velar, handles remain flush with the door until needed, emerging fully from the canvas and staying erect until the driver pulls away. Very little chrome is apparent, with the upscale look resting on its curved canvas.

Standard features include automatic headlights, front and rear LED lights, rear fog lights, 18-inch 15-spoke wheels, a sliding panoramic roof, a power liftgate and a spoiler. There are numerous upgrades available, including wheel sizes and design choices, a heated windshield, roof rails, blacked-out touches and power-folding side mirrors with approach lights.

2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar

2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar

Velar Interior Design and Highlights

Inside, the cabin “brings it” to the segment by taking the opposite approach: it is first-rate as well as first class. Leather liberally covers most surfaces, including the upper and lower dashboard, the seats and the steering wheel. Suede covers nearly everything else — running up the roof pillars and covering the ceiling itself.

But it just may be the available advanced materials that set this vehicle apart. Indeed, my weekly driver included the perforated Windsor leather and added what Land Rover calls “Premium Textile” to the lower dashboard, door inlays, center console and other surfaces. The look is stunning, the feel is unusual, but entirely appropriate. Add in aluminum and other metallic touches, and the interior stuns and amazes.

One of my favorite features was the dual 10-inch center console screen known officially as the Land Rover InControl infotainment system — Touch Pro Duo. With the ignition on, the top screen lights up and then tilts forward. The bottom screen, depending on the setting chosen, features an outline of the Velar or the seats, supplying touchscreen control of many key systems. Gone are switches and knobs, replaced by touch control. That said, the system requires a fair amount of time to learn. You might discover surprising features such as massage function, uncovered by my son as he played with the controls while I concentrated on my drive.

The Velar is a five-seater with an optional two-seat third row or jump seat. Our test model didn’t include the extra row, but that was fine with me as this SUV offers 70.1 cubic feet of standard cargo space. Yes, the Velar is beyond roomy in terms of storage — it easily swallows up a week’s worth of luggage for five.

There are no penalty seats in the Velar’s cabin, which means that five may sit in comfort. Of course, the best seats in the house are up front, where wonderful support, heated and ventilated seats, and a massaging function awaits. The driver has a commanding view of the road and the front passenger is bedazzled by the beautiful touch points throughout.

Standard features include keyless entry with push-button start, a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, 10-way power front seats and zoned climate control. Available features include rear seat remote release levers, a heated steering wheel, 20-way seats, a lockable cooled glove box, cargo space divider rails and configurable ambient lighting.

2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar

Tech Features and Options

The standard eight-speaker audio system is found only in the base model. All other Velars have one of several available Meridian packages with 11, 17 and even 23 speakers available. As you might imagine sound quality only gets better as you choose among the systems. That said, you may find the 11-speaker Meridian audio system delivers what you want — it is that special.

Other tech features include Land Rover’s proprietary connectivity system, satellite radio, HD Radio, USB ports and navigation. Driver assistance features include standard cruise control with speed limiter and lane departure warning. Available tech includes adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, blind spot monitor, lane keep assist, reverse traffic detection, parking sonars and a parking aid.

Three Velar Engine Choices

2018 Land Rover Range Rover VelarYou expect performance under the hood of every Range Rover and in the 2018 Velar, you won’t be disappointed. That said, you’ll find a pair of 2.0-liter turbo engines for your consideration — one for gasoline, the other for diesel. These two Ingenium engines power several Jaguar models and, like the available supercharged V6, they’re paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

I can’t comment on the workings of the smaller engines in the Velar as the supercharged V6 powered my test model. This engine makes 380 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, delivering generous off-the-mark acceleration and passing power. What helps matters is the adjustable suspension — set it low when traveling on the highway for improved handling or set it high when taking this beauty off-road.

The Velar’s electric-powered steering doesn’t supply the connected feel you find in similar Jaguar models, but then this is an SUV, not a sports sedan or an F-Type. The ride is comfortable, although be careful with your wheel choices — the sweet spot here may be the 20-inch wheels.

2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar

Parting Thoughts: 2018

There is a feeling I get every time I review a Land Rover product and that is a sense of inadequacy. No, not because of knowing that I’m out of my league as far as buying one, rather as far as describing one.

You see, just as you think you’re taking a deep dive with this product, you realize that there are numerous fabric options, tech choices and seating options not mentioned. Even describing every sensory experience is sometimes hard to convey, such as the feel of the textile on door inlays, the look of the center console, even the smell of the cabin. Land Rover works diligently to design and build every one of its models and looks for different ways to surprise, even delight shoppers.

Not having tested the Velar with the smaller engines, I cannot offer my opinion on either. What I can say is the V6 is wholly suited for this model. As for choosing your trim, moving away from the base trim substitutes real leather for imitation leather and opens up a world of upgrade possibilities that is certain to please the most ardent Range Rover aficionados.

2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar

2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar

  • Sticker price from $49,900
  • Price as tested: $86,190
  • Seats 5 + 2 occupants
  • Engine No. 1: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four gas
  • 247 horsepower @ 5,500 RPM
  • 269 foot-pounds of torque @ 1,200 RPM
  • Engine No. 2: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four diesel
  • 180 horsepower @ 4,000 RPM
  • 317 foot-pounds of torque @ 1,500 RPM
  • Engine No. 3: 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V6
  • 380 horsepower @ 6,500 RPM
  • 332 foot-pounds of torque @ 3,500 RPM
  • 8-speed automatic transmission, four-wheel drive
  • Wheelbase: 113 inches
  • Length: 189 inches
  • Width: 80 inches
  • Height: 65.5 inches
  • Passenger volume: NR
  • Storage volume: 70.1 cubic feet
  • Towing capacity: 1,635 to 5,291 (5,512, V6) pounds with tow package
  • EPA: 18/24 mpg (V6 gas); 21/27 mpg (I-4 gas); 26/30 mpg (diesel)
  • Premium grade gasoline or Diesel
  • Fuel tank: 16.6 gallons (gas)
  • Curb weight: From 4,835 (gas); 4,916 (diesel) pounds
  • IIHS safety rating: Not rated
  • Limited vehicle warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
  • Powertrain warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
  • Corrosion warranty: 6 years/unlimited miles
  • Vehicle assembly: Solihull, UK

Range Rover Velar Competitive Set: Audi Q5, Porsche Macan, Jaguar F-Pace, Alfa Romeo Stelvio, BMW X5 and the Mercedes-Benz GLC Class.

2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar


See Also — Land Rover Discovery Redux, HSE Luxury Style

Range Rover Velar photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2018 SUVs, four-wheel drive, JAGUAR F-PACE, Land Rover, luxury, RANGE ROVER, Range Rover Velar, Velar

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