Don't assume that because it's smaller and less expensive, Jaguar's new F-Type - launched in South Africa this week - is some kind of XK Lite.
The F-Type is a compact, straightforward two-seater, much like Nissan's 370Z (or, at a pinch, Merc's SLK and the BMW's Z4) but with way more performance across the range than anything close to it in size.
The flagship V8S model, in particular, brings a level of electricity to this class that's rarely been seen before. This supercharged five-litre V8 makes 364kW and 625Nm, and it sends all of it to the rear wheels in relentless blasts that'll see its 20” tyres fight for traction in four of its eight forward gears.
Full-throttle launches require steering inputs to keep it tracking true and I advise leaving stability control permanently switched on. It's also quite a nervous handler once on the move; pushy throttle and steering inputs will get this bronco bucking wildly.
PAT IT GENTLY, OR RISK GETTING THROWN.
The middle-spec F-Type V6S has 'only' 280kW and 460Nm, but don't let that fool you into thinking it's more ordinary. It's more forgiving in nature, but its supercharged three-litre howls over a long, elastic rev-range, and it has enough juice to kick out sideways if you're irresponsible on the gas.
It may not be quite as perverse as its lunatic V8 sister, but the V6S is still plenty bonkers enough.
The base F-Type, a naturally aspirated three-litre V6 for which Jaguar quotes 250kW and 450Nm, wasn't available at Jaguar's Mpumalanga-based South African media launch.
But, no matter what size the engine, the boot is tiny, and with a space-saver spare stuffed in there there's barely space for a small bag. The cabin's cozy too; other than a little nook between the seat backs, a small glove compartment and door pockets, there's hardly place to stick a wallet and cellphone. Shopping trips are impossible; forget about weekends away.
BOTTOM LINE
The Jaguar F-Type is more of a psycho sports car than a road trip cruiser.
F-Type - R845 000
F-Type V6S - R975 000
F-Type V8S - R1 385 000
Read the full SA launch report in Star Motoring on Thursday.
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