It doesn’t seem like four years since Jaguar released the F-Type but it is.
Now it’s time for the spiritual successor to the iconic E-Type to be refreshed.
These are the first pictures of the new F-Type, due on sale “in the first quarter” of this year, according to Jaguar.
It gets a refreshed look across the range thanks to new, more modern looking bumpers with cleaner lines. The bumper tweaks are joined by the inclusion of full LED headlights.
New lightweight, slimline sports seats are 8kg lighter than the old ones. They also allow drivers to slide them 5cm further back. Having crammed my gangly frame into an F-Type I’m looking forward to the improved space.
New chrome, carbon fibre and aluminium trim finishes are on offer as well, plus the option of Siena Tan leather upholstery on any model.
There’s a treat for tech fans too. Working with mobile video specialists GoPro, Jaguar has launched the ReRun app which lets users record up to 10 minutes of footage onboard, overlaid with real-time performance data.
The touchscreen system and user interface has been overhauled as well – a much more pleasant experience is promised – and there’s now 10GB of data storage as standard.
The F-Type R-Dynamic is a new core model, and will replace the F-Type S in the line-up with the same 335bhp and 375bhp engine choices, alongside the same combination of rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive drivetrains.
The stand out new model is the F-Type 400 Sport, though, which will only be on sale for the duration 2017. It features an uprated version of the supercharged 3.0-litre V6 engine found lower down the range, packing 395bhp. Rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions will be available, but all will get the eight-speed Quickshift automatic gearbox – manual versions are no longer offered.
Prices for the 2017 F-Type facelift will begin at £51,450 for the standard 335bhp coupe. New R-Dynamic trim begins from £55,150, while the limited edition 400 Sport model will start from £70,115.