Jaguar F-Type goes AWD

Its fundamentals remain true to Jaguar’s core DNA of refined power, perfect proportions, outstanding design and lightweight construction – the addition of all-wheel drive has increased the F-Type’s weight by 80kg. The result is a car with a greater breadth of dynamic capability, offering drivers a heightened sense of connection to the road. Integrating AWD required only subtle changes to the F-Type’s acclaimed styling – a prerequisite that Jaguar’s design and engineering teams worked side by side to achieve – and the enhancements give AWD F-Types even more presence.

The aluminium clamshell bonnet gains a deeper central power bulge. Either side are distinctive new vents, positioned further apart and further forward than those of rear-wheel drive F-Type models. The AWD system features Intelligent Driveline Dynamics (IDD), a control system designed and developed in-house to exploit the maximum benefits of AWD without any compromise to Jaguar dynamics’ DNA. IDD is networked to the powertrain, rear differential and centre coupling and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system to provide optimum torque distribution.

The Jaguar F-Type R Coupe AWD is now available in SA. Picture: Supplied

Operating on the torque-on-demand principle, the AWD system sends 100% of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels under normal driving conditions. This maintains the F-Type’s rear-wheel drive handling characteristics and also reduces parasitic losses in the drivetrain. If the system determines the rear wheels are approaching the limit of available grip the electronically controlled centre coupling transfers torque to the front axle, improving traction. Another benefit of AWD is the ability to vary the front: rear torque split to mitigate oversteer during fast cornering by providing yaw damping.

The F-Type is the first Jaguar sports car to use EPAS and the new system is fitted as standard to other F-Type models. Years of development have ensured the technology is now mature enough to deliver the benchmark response and feel drivers have come to expect.

The Jaguar F-Type R Coupe AWD is now available in SA. Picture: Supplied

The Torque Vectoring by Braking (TVbB) function first developed for the F-Type R Coupe is now available on all F-Type models. Integrated into the DSC system, selectively braking the inside wheels mitigates understeer, helping the driver to take the ideal line through the bend. The instrument cluster features new dials and gauges. The infotainment system is upgraded too: navigation routing is much faster than before and SD card-based mapping is available for the first time.

Customers who wish to make their F-Type look even more exclusive have the option of a Sport Design Pack: the bespoke splitter, sills, venturi and, for the Coupe, fixed rear spoiler, subtly enhance the styling without affecting the purity of line which sets the F-Type apart in the sports car segment.