2016 Jaguar F-Type R AWD: Bang, Crackle, Pop! [Review]

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The Jaguar F-Type is a performance machine meant for sophisticated and distinguished gentlemen and ladies. Correct? Then why is it so much fun to hit the loud pedal with the exhaust system in the “open” position and unleash the fury of the supercharged V8 symphony? Bang, crackle, pop! This is enough to startle pedestrians, bikers, or construction workers. Can a car support both: the sophisticated and sporty driving experience and a healthy doze of hooligan flavor?

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Well, the R version of the F-Type brings sense to the whole thing. While some other luxury touring cars can be noted for muted or hushed exhaust note, this Jaguar sports car lets it all hang out. Of course, you can quiet it down a bit with a push of a button, but why would you? The 5.0-liter supercharged V8 puts out 550 horsepower and 502 lb-ft of torque @ 2,500 rpm. It’s backed up by an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 2016 model year does bring the 6-speed manual transmission option to the F-Type, but it’s not available on the R.

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The other big news is the addition of the AWD. Yep, Jaguar was able to package the all-wheel-drive system into the F-Type R without sacrificing passenger or cargo space. It does add some weight, but who is counting when you can put the top down and let the speed build up and the sound roll in?

This cat can drop its top while underway and the operation is quick, so you don’t have to slow down or worry about your surroundings for very long. Just hold the switch until the system bings to announce that the top is stowed and latched.

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Given proper tires, this Jaguar can be an all season machine for any purpose, as long as you don’t have to take more than one passenger. It opens up the market for the company as it can now directly compete against other premium AWD sports cars: the Audi R8, the BMW B6 Alpina, and the Porsche 911.

The styling is all there. The F-Type convertible is still one of the best looking drop tops in the business no matter if the top is up or down.

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The interior of the F-Type is a pleasant place to be. I am a little over 6’2” and I was able to get comfortable behind the wheel with the seat back as far as it will go. The transmission works well and shifts quickly in Sport mode. There are also paddle shifters if you like to have more control.

My only gripe with the F-Type is the infotainment system that is still not quiet up to par with the latest and greatest. The screen resolution on the backup camera is poor, and some of the menu items are hidden under many layers. The car of this caliber needs to get all the details right, and the infotainment system has a few rough edges.

The loud button is in the upper right.
The loud button is in the upper right.

Buttom line is – this Jaguar is my new favorite car, although the $121,000 price tag is outside of my personal reach. It can be sophisticated and cool, but it can also turn into a savage with a push of a couple of buttons.

Buy it

I give it an enthusiastic Buy It!  If you are on the market for an Audi R8 or Porsche 911, then you should also put the F-Type R AWD on the list.

Watch this exciting mashup between the F-Type R and the Mustang GT.