Jaguar has announced up to date pricing for its new, four-cylinder models of the F-TYPE sports car, with the base model coupe to sell from $107,300.
At that price the F-TYPE moves within striking distance of the Porsche Cayman, a car previously priced well below the V6 and V8 models that have filled the F-TYPE range until now.
Four drivetrain variants comprise entry-level and R-Dynamic versions of both coupe and convertible – with the turbocharged 'Ingenium' engine matched to one transmission only, an eight-speed automatic.
Jaguar plans to bring in the four-cylinder F-TYPE as part of a facelifted model range from the fourth quarter of this year. The facelift can be picked by redesigned bumpers and LED headlights. Four-cylinder models feature a single exhaust outlet, rather than the centrally-located dual exhausts of the V6 and V8 models.
Inside, the F-TYPE moves to lighter slimline seats, a Touch Pro infotainment system, frameless rear-view mirror and new chrome/aluminium trim. Driver-assist technology added includes autonomous emergency braking, Lane Departure Warning/Lane Keep Assist and Driver Condition Monitor.
Standard equipment for the F-TYPE four-cylinder comprises heated door mirrors, xenon headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, grained leather/suedecloth upholstery for seats, six-way electric seat adjustment, leather-bound steering wheel and electric steering column adjustment. In addition, R-Dynamic models also gain twin exhaust pipes, LED headlights and 19-inch alloy wheels.
Colours available are: Narvik Black, Fuji White, Caldera Red (all solid), Santorini Black, Yulong White, Corris Grey, Indus Silver, British Racing Green, Loire Blue and Ultra Blue (all metallic, priced at $2950). Two premium paints, Carpathian Grey and Silicon Silver are also available, priced at $5910.
The new powerplant produces 221kW and 400Nm, and shares its architecture with other Ingenium petrol engines built at Jaguar Land Rover's Wolverhampton manufacturing plant. Jaguar claims the four-cylinder F-TYPE variants boast a better weight distribution than their V6 and V8 counterparts, thanks to the lower weight of the Ingenium mill.
"The 221kW Ingenium petrol engine is engineered to deliver a compelling blend of performance, refinement and efficiency," says Ron Lee, Engineering Director of Powertrain at Jaguar Land Rover.
"Cutting-edge technologies including electrohydraulic intake valve lift control, integrated exhaust manifold and a twin-scroll turbocharger with ceramic ball bearings make this the most advanced petrol engine we've ever produced.
"Not only is this the most powerful four-cylinder ever offered in a production Jaguar, it also develops the highest specific power and torque ratings of any engine in the F-TYPE range. It's a natural fit for a Jaguar sport car."
Prices are as follows:
F-TYPE four-cylinder coupe – $107,300
F-TYPE four-cylinder R-Dynamic coupe – $115,100
F-TYPE four-cylinder convertible – $126,000
F-TYPE four-cylinder R-Dynamic convertible – $133,800