2019 Jaguar F-Type Coupe Test Drive Review: Bark And Bite
Rarely can the word quintessential be applied as righteously as it can be to Jaguar's F-Type. It is the quintessential sports car with its head-turning looks, taught chassis, and choice of powerful engines. There's a four-cylinder version, but not at the expense of one of the best V6 engines around before getting to the even more hardcore V8. No matter the engine you choose, the F-Type is an engaging drive that leaves a smile on the driver's face. Topping the driving experience off is the fact it's impossible not to glance back at as you walk away from it.
The F-Type is not perfect, but it's easy to forgive its minor faults as the engine snorts, snarls, and sings while the chassis reacts and grips its way through any kind of road that a journey throws at it.
What's the Price of the 2019 Jaguar F-Type Coupe?
The P300 base model has a starting price of $60,750, while one model up will set you back $68,850 for the six-speed manual with the V6. Swapping out the manual box for the eight-speed auto adds $1,300 to the total price of the P340. $80,750 is what the P380 will cost you if you option it in rear-wheel drive, with $83,750 needed to cover the costs of the all-wheel-drive version. At the top of the range, the R-Dynamic in the standard rear-wheel-drive configuration is priced at $82,050 or the manual and $83,350 for the auto. Stretching out your dollars for the all-wheel-drive requires a total outlay of $86,350.
Best Deals on 2019 Jaguar F-Type Coupe
2019 F-Type Coupe Exterior
Dimensions
Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
176.5 in | 103.2 in | 51.6 in | 75.7 in | 62.9 in | 64.9 in | 3,360.0 lbs |
Exterior Colors
2019 F-Type Coupe Performance
Engine and Transmission
Handling and Driving Impressions
While we could point out that Jaguar F-Type is not quite as fast around a track track as its Porsche or Chevrolet competitors, that would miss the point by a considerable distance. The F-Type is the sum of its parts, not the result of a single, honed edge.
On the road, the F-Type R is a sophisticated riot of dynamism set in motion by the enormous shoves of acceleration accompanied by the supercharged V6's snorting and crackling soundtrack. The chassis and suspension help the tires generate a level of grip that meshes with the exuberantly with the power.
The steering is lighter than some may want, but we found it to suit the responsive nature of the F-Type R, and there's plenty of feedback through the steering wheel. More valuable feedback comes from the chassis and through the driver's hips, making the F-Type an absolute joy at any speed, even though the firm ride is always there.
2019 F-Type Coupe Interior
Seating and Interior Space
2019 F-Type Coupe Trunk and Cargo Space
2019 F-Type Coupe Safety and Reliability
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 |
US NHTSA Crash Test Result
Verdict: Is the 2019 Jaguar F-Type Coupe A Good car?
The Jaguar F-Type excels at being a Jaguar sports car, making it the leader in a pack of one. It's not track honed like a Porsche, but it's also going to take a lot of Porsche to make it look slow on the road. What it has over its competition is an effortless sense of style and class to match its performance. As the year draws to a close, the F-Type is still one of the best cars we've driven on several levels. The supercharged V6 engine is as outstanding as it sounds, it performs as beautifully as it looks, the interior is cultured and comfortable, and every drive is an occasion to relish.
What Jaguar F-Type Coupe Model Should I Buy?
Hands down, we recommend a supercharged V6 model. The 4-cylinder engine packs quite a punch, but the raucous V6 will never get old. We certainly didn't find ourselves wishing the F-Type was faster, and that engine is perfect for the car. Our R-Dynamic model featured the switchable active sports exhaust, which is worth the price of admission alone and leaves the remaining package features are icing on the cake. The panoramic roof is a pricey but welcome addition from the options, but packages are a case of checking the boxes you see fit.
2019 Jaguar F-Type Coupe Comparisons
2019 Jaguar F-Type Coupe vs Porsche 718 Cayman
The Cayman comes in slightly cheaper at the entry point to the range than the Jaguar does, costing around $56,900 for the base model with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. It's available in a six-speed manual, though, and carries with it the classic Porsche looks. One of the shortcomings on the Cayman is the expensive options list you have to spec on to get to the F-Types level. Additionally, there is only one engine option for the Cayman, although it makes 300 hp and 280 lb-ft torque, and it achieves average gas mileage (21/28/24 mpg). For comparative - or, as some would suggest - superior handling, the Cayman is that go-to. But for those who want real power and the quintessential Brittish swag, the Jaguar is the way to go.
2019 Jaguar F-Type Coupe vs Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport Coupe
In an almost paradoxical rivalry, the American loud-mouth Corvette goes up against the svelte British sports car. The differences are startling - while the Jag has that delicious, throaty roar, the Corvette erupts with noise wherever it goes. Corvette's epitomize power and acceleration, and the visceral feel of throwing one around the track is nigh unbeatable. Still, the F-Type offers a classy, elegant and plush interior. If your aim is to have a lifestyle sports car, go with the Jag. If you want to make a statement and spend your free time hurtling around race tracks, you can't pick anything other than the Corvette.