2019 Jaguar F-Type Convertible Review: Cool Cat With A Sumptuous Roar
Touted as the successor, or at least tribute to the legendary Jaguar E-Type, the F-Type is Jag's premier sports car and is offered in coupe as well as convertible body styles. There's a wide range of engine options on offer, including a turbocharged 2.0-liter turbo and supercharged V6 units which can be mated to an optional six-speed manual transmission and send power to either the rear or to all four corners. Power from the four-pot is measured at an impressive 300 horsepower, while the supercharged V6 delivers 340 to 380 hp depending on the state of tune. Although the F-Type Convertible has been around for six, going on seven years, it remains a stunningly beautiful car with tight handling and a well-built interior. The F-Type goes up against the likes of the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, a car that offers a lot of performance for a similar asking price, and on the other end of the spectrum, the Porsche 718 Boxster.
Best Deals on 2019 Jaguar F-Type Convertible
F-Type Convertible Exterior
The 2019 F-Type Convertible continues to draw stares from onlookers with its shapely bodywork and overall presence. Standard exterior features across the range include LED headlights with the trademark J emblem integrated within the light housing, LED taillights, rain-sensing window wipers, heated door mirrors, flush door handles, and a sports exhaust system, which sounds absolutely heavenly when matched up to the supercharged V6 engine. A single centrally-mounted active sports exhaust system does duty in the four-cylinder engine, while V6 models get a dual round tailpipes also mounted centrally. Standard 18-inch wheels do duty on the entry-level model, growing to 19-inches on higher-spec cars.
Dimensions
The sporty F-Type Convertible is a low-slung beast, sitting only four inches from the ground and rolls on a short 103.2-inch wheelbase. Measuring 176.5 inches long and 75.7 inches wide excluding side mirrors, you can start to get the idea; the F-Type looks planted and self-assured, even when it's not moving. Its curb weight from 3,405-3,735 lbs is bordering on the podgy side, but it hides it well, and it only adds around 45 lbs to the weight of the coupe.
Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
176.5 in | 103.2 in | 51.5 in | 75.7 in | 62.9 in | 64.9 in | 3,405.0 lbs |
Exterior Colors
F-Type Convertible Performance
Engine and Transmission
The turbocharged 2.0-liter and supercharged V6 might not seem that different on paper, but feel worlds apart in the manner they deliver their power. The forced-induction four-pot produces 300 hp and an impressive 295 lb-ft of torque in base models. It provides that power in one big mid-range punch, while the 340 hp supercharged V6 on higher trims offers 332 lb-ft of torque higher up in the range, but thanks to its larger capacity, it offers a more linear progression. The ZF eight-speed transmission equipped as standard offers convincing performance during hard driving and settles down nicely when cruising at low speeds, and is easier to live with than the available six-speed manual on the V6-powered trims. Power is sent to the rear wheels, but optional AWD is available on certain trims.
Handling and Driving Impressions
Make no mistake, the F-Type isn't a lightweight sports car; it's more like a boxer that throws heavyweight punches but moves like a middleweight. In convertible form, the F-Type feels bumpier over rough road surfaces, but retains the same planted feel of the coupe; most people won't be able to note the difference between the two. What the Jag does well is to offer a sporty ride with flat cornering characteristics and enough grip to do some seriously fast driving, but it also provides a relaxed driving experience when not in full-blown sports mode. Add the adaptive suspension, and the F-Type feels part Porsche Boxster, part GT cruiser. The only true betrayal is the abundance of wind and road noise that manages to permeate the cabin, regardless of whether or not the roof is open or closed.
F-Type Convertible Gas Mileage
Fuel consumption ranges from impressive to gas-guzzling, and there are no prizes for guessing which engines fit these descriptions. The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder will return an impressive 23/30/26 mpg city/highway/combined, which aren't numbers you'd expect to see from a 300 hp Jaguar sports car. The supercharged V6 in 340 hp guise, and fitted with the eight-speed automatic will return a respectable 20/28/23 mpg and stepping up to the 380 hp version will see those numbers drop to 19/27/22 mpg combined on the RWD version - dropping a further point in AWD guise. Depending on engine size, the F-type comes fitted with either a 16.6-gallon gas tank on the 2.0T models or an 18.5-gallon gas tank on the V6 models, which allows it a total range of around 430 miles.
F-Type Convertible Interior
Seating and Interior Space
The F-Type is a full-blown two-seater sports car with a low ride height, so getting in and out can pose a problem for some, especially when it offers a headroom figure of only 37 inches; six-footers and above take note. Legroom, on the other hand, is generous at 42.8 inches. Compared to the 'Vette Stingray's 43 inches of legroom and 37.9 inches of headroom, the interior of the F-Type seems tight, but it's 56.5 inches of shoulder space allows for some breathing room between the driver and passenger.
F-Type Convertible Trunk and Cargo Space
If you're looking for a two-door sports convertible with usable levels of trunk sand cargo space, the Corvette Stingray will be your best bet. The F-Type manages to eke out 7.3 cubic feet of trunk space. Unlike the F-Type Coupe, which sports a hatchback-style liftgate, most of the space in the rear is gobbled up by the roof, so all you get is a small luggage compartment. The Corvette offers ten cubic feet of space, but is limited by a high liftover and narrow entry.
F-Type Convertible Infotainment and Features
Features
With a starting price of over $60,000, it is expected that the features list should be one of substance, and Jaguar hasn't disappointed. Standard features across the range include cruise control, rain-sensing window wipers, LED taillights, single-zone automatic climate control as well as six-way power seats, and push-button start. Higher up in the trim levels, LED headlights, 19-inch alloy wheels, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror becomes standard options. The top trim level features 20-inch wheels and an awesomely cool Switchblade active exhaust that can switch the exhaust note between socially acceptable and uncouth in mere seconds.
Infotainment
The updated infotainment system on the 2019 F-Type received a much-welcomed update with the introduction of Jaguar's latest InControl Touch Pro infotainment system, which sees an improvement in response and overall intuition. The ten-inch display is standard across the range and shares the same features and capabilities. Navigation, Jaguar's Pro Services, and InControl apps all work together to provide a coherent and easy to use system. Other Infotainment features include a USB and 12V socket, Bluetooth connectivity, and a punchy Meridian sound system that is capable of drowning out the 2.0-liter engine but doesn't stand a chance against the supercharged V6. No mention is made of Apple CarPlay, Android Auto connectivity, or SiriusXM satellite radio.
F-Type Convertible Problems and Reliability
There have been four recalls in the past two years, the most notable being a recall issued in January of 2019 for a possible failure of a crankshaft pulley bolt that could cause engine damage. Jaguar covers the F-type with a class-leading basic warranty of five years or 60,000 miles.
Warranty
Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance | Maintenance |
---|---|---|---|---|
5 Years / 60,000 Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | 6 Years / Unlimited Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles |
F-Type Convertible Safety
The NHTSA and IIHS tend to skip out on smashing low-volume sports cars, so there are no crash test ratings available for the Jaguar F-type in the US. Safety features available include optional blind-spot monitoring and active lane control, while six standard airbags, and adaptive cruise control, give peace of mind.
Verdict: Is The 2019 Jaguar F-Type Convertible A Good car?
Before the launch of the F-Type, Jaguar was in dire need of a universally loved sports car, one that would make the same waves as the E-Type did back in the swinging sixties. When it launched, the public was blown away by its stunning looks and impressive performance, and although that wave has waned, there is no doubt that the F-Type is a phenomenal sports car (it has to be if Lana Del Rey featured one in her music video). Thanks to constant updates and improvements, the 2019 F-Type offers good tech and safety features and a range of engine options that range from efficient small capacity turbo units to symphonic supercharged V6s and beyond. It might not be as sharp as its Porsche equivalent, or as powerful and in your face as the Corvette Stingray, but everything it does, it does with glamor and a sense of occasion.
What's the Price of the 2019 Jaguar F-Type Convertible?
Starting at $63,850, the turbocharged 2.0-liter model is the most economical way to get yourself behind the wheel of a 2019 F-Type. Supercharged V6 models start at $71,950 for the entry-level 340 hp version, while the 380 hp version will set you back a further $11,900 for a total price of $83,850. The R-Dynamic Convertible adds a little more at $85,150, excluding tax, licensing, registration, and destination charges.
What Jaguar F-Type Convertible Model Should I Buy?
If you're looking for an economical sports car, go buy a Miata. The 2.0-liter turbo F-Type is fast and capable in the corners but lacks that sports car growl, not to mention the emotion that the F-Type deserves. Instead, look at the 340-hp supercharged V6, which asks a premium of around $8,000 over the four-pot. The sound emanating from the exhaust pipes of a V6 powered F-Type will more than make up for the extra outlay. The higher-spec 380 hp car is better to drive fast thanks to its limited-slip diff, but it's not fooling anyone; the F-Type in standard form handles and performs well enough, and very few owners will be able to push it to its limits on public roads, never mind on a track. Standard features on the V6 car include a ten-inch infotainment system, single-zone climate control, cruise control, and automatic emergency front braking.
2019 Jaguar F-Type Convertible Comparisons
2019 Jaguar F-Type Convertible vs Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible
Do you prefer your iron fist in velvet, or in a fingerless leather glove that smells like pork ribs? The way in which Europe and America go about designing and building performance cars is still miles apart; the Corvette Stingray offers a ton of performance thanks to a large capacity naturally aspirated V8 while the F-Type gives you the option of a zesty turbocharged four-cylinder engine. In its most powerful form, the Jaguar still can't touch the Vette's mid-four-second zero to sixty times but offers a more balanced driving experience. Look past the numbers, and the Jaguar is the superior car in terms of comfort, build quality and overall feel. The Corvette offers more space, but the Jaguar feels more special. If its speed you're after, get the 'Vette, but for everything else, the Jag is the better bet.
2019 Jaguar F-Type Convertible vs Porsche 718 Boxster
Comparing these cars is like pitting English style and grace against German precision. The exterior already tells a tale of two very different cars; the F-Type's swooping arches and dramatic front and rear end stand in contrast to the vented and smirking Boxster. In four-cylinder guise, the F-Type and Boxster offer similar power levels, but the Porsche's lower curb weight makes it more agile. The F-type manages to beat out the Boxster with brute force once you go with the supercharged V6, but the Boxster still manages to feel quicker on its feet. Both cars offer very little in terms of interior and trunk space, but the F-type is the bigger car. The Porsche is the better driver's car, delivering razor-sharp responsive from its beautifully balanced chassis, but can feel twitchy and stiff at lower speeds. The Boxster starts at just under $60,000 and should be your choice if you care more about driving than looking good.