When your head spins and eyes peel to catch a glimpse of the fabulous looking new Jaguar F-Pace sport utility driving by, you can be forgiven for not knowing whether it’s a 2017 or 2018 model. After…

2018 Jaguar F-Pace 25t AWD R-Sport Road Test

2018 Jaguar F-Pace 25t AWD R-Sport
Jaguar’s F-Pace looks no different for 2018, although under the hood in 25t trim is a new base 2.0-litre turbo-four capable of 247-hp. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

When your head spins and eyes peel to catch a glimpse of the fabulous looking new Jaguar F-Pace sport utility driving by, you can be forgiven for not knowing whether it’s a 2017 or 2018 model. After all, the larger than average compact luxury SUV has only been around since the former model year, so therefore its styling remains the same. Then again, if you hear the unique sound of a performance-tuned turbocharged four-cylinder engine, take note, as you’ve just witnessed a brand new 2018 F-Pace 25t or 30t blast past. 

The new gasoline-powered, turbocharged and direct-injected Ingenium 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine was first introduced to the 2018 Jaguar F-Type sports car last year, providing a new more affordable entry-level trim for attracting more sports car fans to the beautiful two-place coupe and convertible. Since then, both the F-Pace and the XE compact sport-luxury sedan have been given the same value-added treatment, which Jaguar hopes will make them more appealing in their respective market segments. 

2018 Jaguar F-Pace 25t AWD R-Sport
Hello good looking! The F-Pace looks great from all angles. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Specifically to the SUV being reviewed here, the already popular F-Pace receives a $650 price drop from $50,900 last year to $50,250 this year, while the 20d turbo-diesel, last year’s base engine, gets a minor $350 price increase to $51,250. 

Along with the reduced pricing comes dramatically improved performance in base trim, the 20d being highly efficient yet not as quick as the new gasoline-powered turbo-four. By the numbers, the new F-Pace 25t AWD model’s zero to 100km/h sprint time drops to just 6.8 seconds from 8.7, while its top speed increases from 208 to 217 km/h. 

2018 Jaguar F-Pace 25t AWD R-Sport
R-Sport trim includes these standard LED headlamps. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

This newfound energy is due to differences in the way gasoline and diesel engines make their power and torque, in this case the 25t good for 247 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 269 lb-ft of torque from 1,200 to 4,500 rpm, while the 20d makes 180 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 318 lb-ft of torque from 1,750 to 2,500 rpm. 

As noted the tradeoff is fuel-efficiency, with the F-Pace 25t AWD estimated to achieve a Transport Canada five-cycle fuel economy rating of 10.7 L/100km in the city, 8.8 on the highway and 9.9 combined, and the F-Pace 20d AWD good for a claimed 8.9 city, 7.2 highway and 8.1 combined, a considerable savings even before factoring in the price of diesel fuel, which is less expensive in most jurisdictions. Your choice will come down to priorities. The performance option is now standard, while a mere $1,000 bump upwards for the turbo-diesel makes it a viable option for those wanting to eke as much distance as possible out of a tank of fuel. 

2018 Jaguar F-Pace 25t AWD R-Sport
An available Black Pack removes some key chrome and body-colour trim and replaces it with glossy black. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The new 2.0-litre turbo-four comes standard with aforementioned base Premium trim, as well as mid-range Prestige trim that starts at $54,750, and my test model’s performance-oriented R-Sport trim that can be had for $60,000. 

Earlier in this review I mentioned the F-Pace 30t, which is an even more potent version of the 2.0-litre Ingenium turbo-four. It starts at $52,750 and can be had in all of the above trims, while it also becomes the new base engine for the more feature-filled $67,200 Portfolio model, this engine putting out 296 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque for a 6.0-second sprint from zero to 100km/h and a top speed of 233 km/h. Despite the much-improved performance, fuel economy is only minimally affected at just 10.9 L/100km city, 8.7 city and 9.9 combined. 

2018 Jaguar F-Pace 25t AWD R-Sport
These 20-inch alloys come standard with the R-Sport. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Lastly, the F-Pace can also be had with a 3.0-litre supercharged V6 that’s good for 380 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, making the so-named F-Pace S AWD a full half-second faster from zero to 100km/h than the F-Pace 30t AWD, with a quickest time of 5.5 seconds and higher terminal velocity of 250 km/h. 

As part of Jaguar’s overall value proposition, the F-Pace receives standard all-wheel drive, while this four-season advantage is also joined up to a highly efficient, quick-shifting eight-speed ZF automatic that includes auto start/stop, which shuts the engine off when it would otherwise be idling in order to save fuel and reduce emissions. Also included is the brand’s trademark space-saving rotating dial gear selector that wows passengers by powering upwards at startup, plus shift paddles on the steering wheel come standard. 

2018 Jaguar F-Pace 25t AWD R-Sport
Of course, the standard taillights incorporate LEDs. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Like most Jaguars, the F-Pace is built using lightweight, recyclable aluminum body panels, internal framework and chassis components, which sets it apart from the majority of its competitors. Of course, such significant mass reduction not only minimizes fuel usage, but also helps the F-Pace achieve all the straight-line acceleration numbers mentioned earlier, while benefiting braking and handling as well. 

My tester’s 255/50R20 Michelin Latitude Tour HPs on twinned five-spoke alloys were a step up from the base 19s, the wheel and tire upgrade part of R-Sport trim that also adds uprated 350-mm front brake rotors for improved stopping power if you opt for the more formidable 30t engine, while less potent models like my loaner rely on 325-mm front discs that still provided strong, linear braking capability with minimal fade after repeated stomps on the pedal. 

2018 Jaguar F-Pace 25t AWD R-Sport
Attractive interior design, superb digital interfaces, and an impressive assortment of features help us give a pass to some poor quality plastics. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

And there really is a need for better braking, as the combination of a lighter engine with stronger performance makes for a much sportier base F-Pace. When not trying to make the most of my tank of fuel by tapping the console-mounted JaguarDrive Control rocker switch into Eco mode, I kept it north of Normal in Dynamic sport mode, which stiffened the steering and energized the throttle mapping for a more exciting drive, the 25t AWD feeling even more athletically inclined than the 20d through the curves due to its ability to get more power down to the wheels mid-corner, while the note of the higher revving engine sounds more spirited as well. 

2018 Jaguar F-Pace 25t AWD R-Sport
Jaguar lays the cockpit out like a sports car, but the F-Pace’ excellent visibility makes its SUV roots known. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Jaguar also includes a Rain/Ice/Snow mode, important for the ever colder winters we’ve been experiencing lately, not to mention jaunts up the ski hill during that cold season or mucking ones way out of a muddy back road after a rainy summer weekend away at the cottage. Together with the all-wheel drive system, All Surface Progress Control for even more grip in slippery conditions, plus brake-system applied torque vectoring to improve handling and stability at higher speeds, the F-Pace is one of the more confidence inspiring SUVs in its class. 

Good visibility is as important a confidence builder as anything else, and to that end the R-Sport creates more day-like light at night than the base model’s halogen headlights with daytime running lights (DRLs), as well as the Prestige model’s bi-function Xenon headlights with signature “J” blade LED DRLs by adding full LED headlamps with adaptive corning capability and auto high beam assist, these also adding a more sophisticated look. 

2018 Jaguar F-Pace 25t AWD R-Sport
A fully configurable digital TFT gauge cluster is available. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Along with the LED headlamps the R-Sport gains visual impact via an exclusive body styling and exterior trim kit comprised of a sportier front bumper design, satin-chrome front fender “power vents” with R-Sport badges, body-colour R-Sport door claddings with grained matte black finishers, and more, which makes the addition of standard blindspot monitoring with reverse traffic detection all the more important—we wouldn’t want to scratch all that sporty bodywork now, would we? 

The front and rear parking sensors pulled up from Prestige trim help in this respect too, that mid-range model also providing the R-Sport with headlight power washers, a powered steering column with memory, cool soft glowing mood lighting, a very accurate and easy to program navigation system, and more. 

2018 Jaguar F-Pace 25t AWD R-Sport
The well sorted F-Pace centre stack can be optioned to include this 2.0-inch larger 10.2-inch infotainment touchscreen. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

All F-Pace R-Sport models get the most important advanced driver assistance systems too, including collision warning with autonomous emergency braking and lane monitoring with lane keeping assist, while a driver condition monitor makes sure you’re not falling asleep at the wheel. 

Additionally, you’ll be stepping over R-Sport branded metal treadplates to get inside, where you’ll also find exclusive bright sport pedals, a satin chrome console storage surround to go along with the satin chrome touchscreen surround that also gets pulled up from Prestige trim, perforated grained leather upholstery, and more. 

2018 Jaguar F-Pace 25t AWD R-Sport
The infotainment system comes loaded with features, navigation being optional. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Lastly, some highlights from base Premium trim that remain part of this R-Sport model include proximity access and ignition, an electromechanical parking brake, a garage door opener, rain-sensing wipers, touch-sensitive JaguarSense switchgear for the LED overhead lights, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, auto-dimming and power-folding heatable side mirrors with approach lights and memory, driver’s seat memory, dual-zone auto climate control, a large 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with attractive graphics and an easy-to-use layout, an excellent backup camera with dynamic guidelines, great sounding 11-speaker 380-watt Meridian audio, satellite radio, Bluetooth audio streaming, a massive panoramic sunroof, a powered liftgate, a reversible load floor that switches from luxury carpeting to a more washable rubberized surface, more convenient 40/20/40 split-folding rear seatbacks that allow longer items like skis down the middle while rear occupants enjoy the more comfortable window seats, a commodious 648-litre (22.9 cubic-foot) cargo compartment (948 litres or 33.5 cubic feet by U.S. EPA standards) that expands to a generous 1,798 litres (63.5 cubic feet), etcetera. 

2018 Jaguar F-Pace 25t AWD R-Sport
Jaguar’s rotating gear selector is smart, efficient and wow’s passengers as it powers up from its otherwise flush resting position on startup. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Incidentally, the fully configurable 12.3-inch HD TFT Virtual Instrument Display you may have already seen in a photo as part of this review isn’t standard with the F-Pace or this R-Sport trim, but rather it’s an upgrade (from a regular analogue gauge cluster with a 5.0-inch colour multi-info display) that comes as part of the $3,320 Technology Pack, which also includes an enhanced InControl Touch Pro Navigation system on a larger 10.2-inch widescreen display; InControl Pro Services featuring a door-to-door route planner companion app, the ability to share your ETA, a Commute Mode that learns your regular route and automatically advises of traffic problems and possible detours, plus an Arrival Mode that displays an interactive 360-degree street view of your destination; and a sensational Meridian surround sound system with Trifield Technology, 825 watts of power through 16 amplifier channels, 17 speakers including a sub, Advanced DSP, Audyssey MultEQ equalization, and dynamic volume control. 

2018 Jaguar F-Pace 25t AWD R-Sport
The R-Design’s seats are extremely comfortable and plenty supportive. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Jaguar also added a $440 heated front windshield, a factory-installed $720 tow hitch receiver, and finished the outer panels in no-cost Fuji White paint (one of 12 colour choices), while its complete lack of exterior chrome trim meant that a $510 Black Pack R-Sport trim package replaced the metal brightwork surrounding the grille, side power vents and side window surrounds with Gloss Black, while the mesh grille itself was also glossy black, as were the otherwise body-colour door cladding finishers. 

2018 Jaguar F-Pace 25t AWD R-Sport
Kudos to Jaguar’s interior design team for dreaming up this cool light green stitching on grey leather motif. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

My tester also featured no-cost Oyster medium grey leather with cool looking light green contrast stitching (Ebony with white stitching, two-tone Ebony/Pimento with red stitching, and two-tone Ebony/Light Oyster with light grey stitching are no-cost options too), this found across the dash, down the sides of the centre stack/console, on the door panels, the armrests and the seat upholstery, while the R-Sport model’s standard piano black lacquered instrument and door panel inlays were replaced with $260 Etched Aluminum ($410 worth of Satin Burr Ash hardwood is also available). 

While the F-Pace 25t AWD R-Sport that Jaguar loaned to me for my weeklong test was nicely outfitted, there were many more features that could have been added to this specific trim, such as an $1,130 Adaptive Dynamics Pack featuring configurable electronically controlled dampers and Adaptive Surface Response (ASR); a $2,040 Comfort and Convenience Pack with cooled front seats, heatable rear outboard seats, power-reclining rear seatbacks, rear seat remote release levers, and a gesture liftgate; a $2,350 Luxury Interior Pack with illuminated treadplates, a Suedecloth headliner, four-zone climate control, an air quality sensor, a cooled glove box, configurable mood lighting, premium carpet mats, and two 12-volt power sockets in the second row; a $3,320 Driver Assist Pack including a surround parking camera, a 360-degree Parking Aid, semi-autonomous Park Assist self-parking, traffic sign recognition, an Adaptive Speed Limiter, and Adaptive Cruise Control with Queue Assist and Intelligent Emergency Braking. 

2018 Jaguar F-Pace 25t AWD R-Sport
This massive powered panoramic sunroof comes standard across the F-Pace line. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Finally, standalone features not yet mentioned include $160 cargo storage rails, $360 InControl WiFi, a $410 waterproof Activity Key that wears like a bracelet while swimming or doing other outdoor activities, a $490 full size spare tire on a matching alloy wheel, a $1,020 head-up display, and myriad wheel and tire options. 

If I could find a weakness it’s the use of subgrade hard plastics in unusually visual areas, such as the shroud above the primary gauge cluster. Bizarrely, the Toyota Corolla I was testing during the same week featured a much more upscale surface treatment in the same area, but like the F-Pace its glove box lid and lower door plastics were also made from hard shell plastic, something you’d never find in a competitive BMW X3. Such blatant cost cutting is obviously not an issue for the thousands of luxury buyers that have stepped up to Jaguar’s largest and priciest SUV, but plenty of others may have been turned off, so the British brand may want to address this issue by upgrading key areas done better by competitors. 

2018 Jaguar F-Pace 25t AWD R-Sport
Rear seat roominess is very generous. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Speaking of market growth, before the F-Pace arrived Jaguar had zero SUV sales, but after just seven months on the market it had found 1,289 buyers, while after a full 12 months of sales ending on December 31, 2017 the F-Pace managed 2,612 deliveries, placing it eighth out of 14 competitors. What’s more, the F-Pace clearly leads all other Jaguar models in sales, proving once again how important sport utilities are to a brand’s bottom line. 

2018 Jaguar F-Pace 25t AWD R-Sport
The F-Pace is one of the more accommodating SUVs in its class. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

While the F-Pace is up against some serious competitors, the market segment led by Audi’s all-new Q5, Acura’s completely redesigned RDX, Mercedes’ still fresh GLC, Lexus’ edgy NX, and BMW’s fully reworked X3, just to name a handful, it’s easily one of the sportiest of its ilk, arguably one of the best looking, and no doubt one of the most practical due to its larger than average size. Its newfound increase in base performance and slight decrease in price should only help it gain more traction in its segment, which bodes well for a positive future. Now the question remains whether you’ll be part of its success story.

Land Rover’s Discovery Sport and Range Rover Evoque are already very popular in their respective classes, but that hasn’t held the British automaker back from making them even more competitive. In…

2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport and Range Rover Evoque receive power upgrade

2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport HSE
All Discovery Sport trims get improved performance for 2018, with top-line models receiving 286-hp. (Photo: Land Rover)

Land Rover’s Discovery Sport and Range Rover Evoque are already very popular in their respective classes, but that hasn’t held the British automaker back from making them even more competitive.

In fact, both models received all-new Ingenium engines for 2018, the 2.0-litre turbocharged direct-injected four-cylinder now designed and built totally in-house. Along with similarly powered base engines to their predecessors, the two SUVs also get the option of a much more powerful variant.

2018 Range Rover Evoque HSE
The more powerful engine can be added to Evoque HSE and HSE Luxury trims, increasing acceleration dramatically. (Photo: Land Rover)

Entry-level models receive similar output numbers to their forebears at 237 horsepower compared to 240, and 251 lb-ft of torque instead of 250, while a class-leading adaptive shift program enhanced nine-speed automatic aids both performance and efficiency.

Speaking of performance, top-tier Discovery Sport and Evoque trims can be had with a 286 horsepower version of the same engine making 295 lb-ft of torque, allowing the Evoque to sprint from standstill to 100km/h in just 6.4 seconds, which is 1.2 seconds quicker to 100km/h than the outgoing Evoque, plus 4 km/h faster overall at 221 km/h (132 mph). Also impressive, the base Evoque shaves 0.3 seconds from the old model, completing its zero to 100km/h run in just 7.3 seconds.

2018 Range Rover Evoque Convertible HSE
The 2018 Evoque Convertible doesn’t get the most potent powerplant, but the new base engine makes it quicker just the same. (Photo: Land Rover)

The larger Discovery Sport is much quicker with its upgraded engine too, zipping from zero to 100km/h in only 6.7 seconds and topping out at 221 km/h (132 mph) just like the faster Evoque, while the new base model achieves the feat in just 7.6 seconds compared to 8.2 seconds in the outgoing SUV (the seven-passenger Disco Sport hits 100km/h in 7.9 seconds), and once again manages a terminal velocity of 200 km/h (124 mph).

2018 Range Rover Evoque Convertible HSE
The new Ingenium gasoline engine lineup was designed and gets made totally in-house. (Photo: Land Rover)

The innovative Evoque Convertible doesn’t feature a high-output version yet, but the new base engine nevertheless increases zero to 100km/h performance from 8.6 seconds to 8.1, while its top track-speed grows from 180 km/h (112 mph) to 217 km/h (135 mph), which is now the same as the outgoing and current five-door base Evoque’s top speed.

The new engine features a higher-pressure fuel injection system with upgraded injectors, while the exhaust manifold is now integrated within the cylinder head for quicker warm-up and more immediate turbo response. The high-output variant also includes an upgraded turbocharger with unique bearings resulting in more power, quicker response and better overall efficiency.

2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport HSE
The new engines improve performance across the range, while a 9-speed auto and four-wheel drive remain standard with both SUVs. (Photo: Land Rover)

If you want the more potent engine in the Discovery Sport you’ll first need to step up to HSE or HSE Luxury trim, which sport Dynamic exterior and interior styling plus equipment upgrades. Both trims get exterior modifications including a sportier front fascia design with deeper air intakes and other unique trim details all around the SUV, plus HID headlights with LED signatures, fog lamps, auto-dimming side mirrors with memory, and a fixed panoramic sunroof, while the cabins get a heatable sport steering wheel as well as driver’s seat memory, perforated leather upholstery, heated front seats, front parking sensors, a garage door opener, etcetera.

2018 Range Rover Evoque HSE
Land Rover 4×4 capability is legendary, with even the smallest Range Rover Evoque performing well off-road. (Photo: Land Rover)

Specific HSE Luxury features also include unique exterior trim, proximity keyless entry, illuminated aluminum treadplates, upgraded interior trim, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, navigation, 380-watt Meridian audio, higher grade perforated Windsor leather upholstery with contrast stitching and piping, a powered gesture liftgate, and more.

Of note, the Discovery Sport is impressively equipped in base trim with features like off-road capable four-wheel drive boasting Terrain Response and All Terrain Progress Control, trailer stability assist, auto on/off headlamps, power-folding heatable side mirrors with approach lamps, an electromechanical parking brake, pushbutton ignition, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, dual-zone auto climate control, rear parking sensors, 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment, a rearview camera, partial leather upholstery, 10-speaker audio, three USB ports with charging, Bluetooth phone connectivity with streaming audio, ambient interior lighting, and more.

2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport HSE
The Discovery Sport has built a strong reputation for off-road competence. (Photo: Land Rover)

With the Evoque, the zestier engine comes in HSE Dynamic and Autobiography trims, and like the Disco Sport this sportier Evoque gets a reworked front fascia, 20-inch alloys, bright square exhaust pipes, adaptive and configurable dynamics, auto high beams, a sport steering wheel, bright metal sport pedals, Windsor leather upholstery, ambient interior lighting, a Homelink universal garage door opener, 10-inch infotainment, upgraded navigation, WiFi, plus other exterior and interior enhancements, while the Autobiography adds unique exterior trim, adaptive HID headlamps with LED signatures, upgraded interior finishings, 14-way powered front seats with forced ventilation and memory, specially embossed Windsor leather upholstery, 16-speaker 825-watt Meridian audio, and more.

2018 Range Rover Evoque Landmark Edition
A new Range Rover Evoque Landmark Edition provides unique styling and features for good value. (Photo: Land Rover)

At the other end of the Evoque spectrum, a new value-focused five-door Landmark Edition combines the less formidable engine with unique dark grey gloss finished 19-inch seven-split-spoke alloy wheels, a choice of three exterior colours including Yulong White, Corris Grey and exclusive Moraine Blue, plus a standard Carpathian Grey contrast roof, Graphite grey and gloss black exterior trim, an Ebony black interior with Lunar stitching and dark satin brushed aluminum inlays. Additional Landmark Edition features include fog lamps, auto-dimming side mirrors, proximity keyless access, a powered gesture rear liftgate, and a more powerful eight-speaker audio system.

2018 Range Rover Evoque Landmark Edition
The Evoque provides a luxurious interior, with the Landmark Edition getting unique trim and features. (Photo: Land Rover)

It should be noted the base Evoque is already a very well equipped SUV, with standard features that include off-road capable four-wheel drive with Terrain Response and All Terrain Progress Control, handling-enhancing torque vectoring, power-folding side mirrors with approach and puddle lights, an electromechanical parking brake, pushbutton ignition, a heatable leather-wrapped steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, a colour TFT multi-information display within the primary gauge cluster, dual-zone auto climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, front and rear parking sensors, an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, a rearview camera, navigation, heatable 12-way powered front seats, leather upholstery, and much more.

2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport HSE
The Discovery Sport is priced affordably yet provides premium materials and equipment. (Photo: Land Rover)

The new 2018 Evoque Landmark Edition starts at $54,000, which is just $4,100 more than the $49,900 base SE model, while the more powerful engine in HSE Dynamic trim can be had from $64,500, and the Evoque Convertible can be had from $66,000.

Despite being larger the Discovery Sport remains Land Rover’s entry-level SUV and one of the more attractively priced vehicles in its class at just $43,500 plus freight and fees, while the quickest Discovery Sport variant is available from $53,300.

You can be forgiven for not noticing the mild changes made to Jaguar’s beautiful F-Type sports car as part of its 2018 mid-cycle update, but the sound emanating from the new base model’s tailpipes…

2018 Jaguar F-Type gets 296-hp turbo-four and $10k price cut

2018 Jaguar F-Type
Changes made to the 2018 Jaguar F-Type include unique front fascias throughout the line, this new 400 Sport getting even more styling enhancements plus a 400-hp V6. (Photo: Jaguar)

You can be forgiven for not noticing the mild changes made to Jaguar’s beautiful F-Type sports car as part of its 2018 mid-cycle update, but the sound emanating from the new base model’s tailpipes should cause your head to spin when one passes by.

Under its long, elegant hood is a new 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged “Ingenium” engine making a very healthy 296 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, that when combined with its standard eight-speed Quickshift automatic transmission results in a very spirited 5.7-second sprint to 100km/h before attaining a limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

“Introducing our advanced four-cylinder engine to the F-Type has created a vehicle with its own distinct character,” said Ian Hoban, Vehicle Line Director, Jaguar F-Type. “Performance from an engine of this size is remarkable and is balanced with improved fuel efficiency and affordability, making the F-Type experience more accessible than ever before.”

2018 Jaguar F-Type
New R-Dynamic trim also gets a unique look that’s all its own. (Photo: Jaguar)

The turbo four-cylinder F-Type should provide more than enough performance for many sports car enthusiasts, especially when considering that key competitors Audi, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Alfa Romeo don’t offer anywhere near as much output from their entry-level four-cylinder sports models, with 220 horsepower for the TT, 241 for the SLC, 241 for the Z4, and 237 for the 4C, while the aforementioned numbers line up right alongside Porsche’s dynamic duo, the 718 Cayman and Boxster that are good for 300 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque apiece.

In case you’re thinking the all-aluminum F-Type is more of a 911 fighter, or for that matter a good match for the larger R8, SL, i8, etcetera, you’re right in one respect. It can match or beat all of the above when powered by one of its more potent supercharged V6 or V8 engines, the new for 2018 F-Type 400 Sport special edition capable of 400 horsepower and a 4.9-second sprint to 100km/h, and F-Type SVR putting a cool 575 horsepower down to all four wheels for a 3.7-second dash to 100km/h, but more importantly the F-Type’s new $68,500 starting point, which is an even $10k less than last year’s base Coupe, makes it more affordable than all of the above except the little Audi when each competitor is upgraded to match the Jag’s standard features.

2018 Jaguar F-Type
The V8-powered F-Type R is one of the more aggressively styled trims. (Photo: Jaguar)

A Porsche 911, on the other hand, starts at $104,000, which is $35,500 more than the entry-level F-Type. Again, Jaguar has a full range of F-Type trims to go head-to-head with that 911 and almost any sports car currently available, which is a highly efficient way of taking on larger less exclusive brands and simultaneously delivering big value to its clientele.

No wonder the F-Type was Canada’s third most popular premium sports car last year, a position it’s carried forward throughout the first half of 2017 and could possibly surpass in Q3 and Q4 due to greater affordability of the new 2018 model. Of note, its sales already rank second in the 10 times larger U.S. market.

2018 Jaguar F-Type
The new F-Type SVR is top of the line and capable of 575-hp. (Photo: Jaguar)

As noted, part of that value equation comes down to everything you get for your money, a shortlist of standard F-Type features including LED headlights with signature J-Blade DRLs, 18-inch alloy wheels, proximity-sensing keyless access with pushbutton ignition, power-folding heatable side mirrors with memory, rain-sensing wipers, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a colour multi-information display, a powered steering column with memory, 12-way powered sport seats with memory, leather and Suedecloth upholstery, auto climate control, 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment with a rearview camera, navigation, InControl apps (Spotify, Stitcher, Audiobooks, Accuweather, Tile, Glympse, and more, including new Jaguar ReRun developed with GoPro for creating your own video content with real-time on-board telemetry overlays such as speed, throttle position, gear selection, braking force, and g-force data, downloadable to your smartphone and therefore sharable on social media—beware of self-incrimination) and Pro Services (real-time traffic, door-to-door routing, etc), 380-watt 10-speaker Meridian audio, satellite and HD radio, rear parking sensors, an electromechanical parking brake, a performance-tuned eight-speed Quickshift automatic transmission with paddles, brake-sourced torque vectoring, auto engine start/stop, an active sport exhaust system, lane departure warning, and much more.

2018 Jaguar F-Type
Unique carbon-fibre details help to visually set the SVR apart. (Photo: Jaguar)

To be totally fair to those aforementioned competitors, most include heatable front seats and dual-zone auto climate control, both of which will cost F-Type buyers an extra $1,530 for the Climate package that also includes a heatable steering wheel and heated windshield, while a universal garage door opener is on the standard list of some rivals too, a $260 standalone option with the F-Type. Even with these options added it’s a better deal than average, however, while the ability to add auto high beams for $260 as well as lane keep assist, blindspot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, traffic sign recognition, an adaptive speed limiter (a.k.a. dynamic cruise control), and a driver condition monitor for just $870 when upgrading to the Drive Pack is excellent value in this class or any.

2018 Jaguar F-Type
All F-Type trims get darkened LED taillights for 2018. (Photo: Jaguar)

Of note, Jaguar offers a number of other option groups and features with the base F-Type too, including a $1,180 Black package that replaces chrome and body-colour exterior elements with glossy black; a $1,130 Interior Black package that adds a flat-bottom sport steering wheel with black spokes, gloss black instrument cluster dial rings, and black vent surrounds; a $2,250 Extended Leather package that adds leather-clad sunvisors and a leather headliner (the stitched leather dash top and instrument panel others charge you more for is already standard); $1,020 770-watt 12-speaker Meridian surround audio; $210 auto-dimming side mirrors; $260 configurable multi-colour ambient lighting; a $110 air quality sensor; $620 illuminated aluminum treadplates with “JAGUAR” script; a $510 powered liftgate; $290 front parking sensors; and $260 switchable active exhaust; while some of the otherwise packaged features can alternatively be purchased as standalone items. Of course, many more standard and optional features can be had when moving up through the F-Type range, semi-autonomous self-parking even available with automatic equipped models.

2018 Jaguar F-Type
Jaguar’s 8.0-inch InControl Touch infotainment with navigation is standard across the F-Type line. (Photo: Jaguar)

While the 2018 F-Type’s mid-cycle makeover is subtle, the changes make a big difference up front where new bumpers and air intakes make it easy to decipher new from old, while also allowing greater model-to-model differentiation throughout the F-Type range, with pricier more potent F-Type trims getting more aggressive, sportier front fascia designs. As noted earlier, LED headlamps are standard now, which makes sure all F-Types receive a premium-level, high-tech appearance when they pass by, while simultaneously improving nighttime visibility and therefore safety. The only noted changes to the 2018 F-Type’s rear design are slightly modified LED taillights featuring darker lenses.

“Great sports car design is about proportion and purity,” said Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar. “The most challenging element of the process for designers is to focus on and maintain an exciting silhouette that promises performance. For the 2018 model year F-Type, we looked at how we could fine-tune key details to deliver even more clarity of purpose in the overall design – for the driver, the passenger and onlookers.”

2018 Jaguar F-Type
Even base cars come richly appointed with standard leather, nicer trims, better sport seats, and improved digital interfaces. (Photo: Jaguar)

While most sports car fans will be glad Jaguar kept exterior design mods to a minimum, all should be happy the interior introduces “new material options that give the car a more exotic feel,” said Jaguar in a press release. Those purchasing an entry-level model should also be glad to hear the brand’s 8.0-inch InControl Touch Pro infotainment system is now standard, its large screen, faster processing speeds and tablet-style tap, pinch and swipe gesture controls making most in-car functions work smoother, while Jaguar also promises its new slimline seats, with pressure diecast magnesium alloy frames, improve ergonomics and add comfort despite being 7.7 kilos (17 lbs) lighter. Additionally, Jaguar has added new chrome and aluminum trim inside, which “heighten the driver-focused feel of the interior and perfectly complement the enhanced interior color options,” added Jaguar in the same press release, the latter now including a Siena Tan leather option in standard models and above.

2018 Jaguar F-Type
The new ReRun app lets record your driving antics via a GoPro camera while overlaying performance data overtop. All you need to do is download it and put it on social media. (Photo: Jaguar)

The 400 Sport special edition noted earlier uses Jaguar’s 3.0-litre supercharged V6, firms up the chassis and adds Configurable Dynamics, upgrades the brakes to larger 380-mm front and 376-mm rear rotors, bolts on a unique set of satin dark grey 20-inch alloys, gets painted in Indus Silver, Santorini Black or Yulong White metallic, and finally gets special “400 SPORT” badges on the front splitter, rear deck lid, treadplates, steering wheel, centre console, and embroidered into the headrests in yellow thread, the latter stitching used elsewhere within the interior as well. Final 400 Sport interior touches include a flat-bottomed steering wheel, anodized aluminum gearshift paddles, and 12-way powered performance seats boasting greater detail and more pronounced wings at shoulder height. All this can be had for just $97,500, which as you may recall is still less than the previously noted base 911.

Just below this model is a new $88,000 R-Dynamic trim level that builds on the 380 horsepower supercharged V6 model by adding gloss black to the front air intake bezels, front splitter, hood vents and side sills, plus a set of 20-inch dark grey diamond turned alloys.

2018 Jaguar F-Type
All 2018 F-Type trims can be had in either Coupe or Convertible body styles. (Photo: Jaguar)

To be clear, while the new four-cylinder comes only with an eight-speed automatic in rear-wheel drive, Jaguar will continue offering 340 and 380 horsepower versions of its supercharged V6 for 2018, the former with the choice of six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic transmissions and rear-wheel drive, and the latter with the option of the automatic and all-wheel drive. The new Sport 400 is automatic-only, but can be had with either rear- or all-wheel drive, whereas all V8-powered models get the auto with all-wheel drive, the only powertrain not yet mentioned being the carryover 550 horsepower supercharged V8. What’s more, all of the above configurations are available in two-door Coupe or Convertible body styles.

Also notable, a number of other F-Type trims receive price cuts too, including the top-line SVR that’s now $2,500 more affordable than last year’s equivalent at $139,500.

Much more has gone into the 2018 F-Type than initially meets the eye or can be covered in this story, such as extensive chassis tuning to take advantage of the lighter weight base engine, plus critically important to any new model, a comprehensive suite of available electronic driver assistance features such as autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and more.