The Jaguar F-TYPE has undergone its first dynamic challenge outside of Jaguar’s internal development program, following an invitation to three world-renowned drivers – Martin Brundle, Christian Danner and Justin Bell – to put both 380hp V6 and 495hp V8 prototype models to the test.
In cold and challenging conditions at the UK’s Snetterton 300 circuit and on the surrounding Norfolk roads, the trio of international racing drivers and television presenters – resident in the UK, Germany and the US – were able to experience the F-TYPE’s performance in full.
Their efforts were witnessed by Mike Cross, Chief Engineer Vehicle Integrity, Jaguar, the man who has directed the team which has worked tirelessly to ensure the F-TYPE delivers a truly rewarding sports car driving experience.
“It’s been a fascinating day,” said Mike. “The entire F-TYPE development program has, from a vehicle development perspective, been focused on delivering a connected sports car driving experience. To witness three respected drivers take to the track and to hear their positive comments validate that our work has been great.”
The camouflaged prototype F-TYPE S and F-TYPE V8 S models provided for the test were fully representative of production intent from a dynamic and powertrain perspective.
The 380hp F-TYPE S covers the 0-60 mph sprint in 4.8 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.9 seconds) and has an electronically limited top speed of 171 mph (275km/h). Corresponding headline figures for the F-TYPE V8 S are 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.3 seconds) and an electronically limited top speed of 186 mph (300km/h). Both feature all-aluminum construction, Adaptive Dynamics suspension and an Active Exhaust system.
