Jaguar F-Type Review

Gumtree Rating

4.0 rating

The two-seater Jaguar F-Type was considered by many to be a successor to the legendary E-Type. Launched in 2013 as a convertible, and then a coupe in 2014, both models are still in production today – albeit with some facelifts here and there. New E-Type or not, this car is certainly a thing of classic beauty, with a hint of Aston Martin in there too. It has the performance to match its looks, thanks to a range of throaty, vibrant petrol engines (sorry, no diesel or electric options here).

Visit the Jaguar F-Type model page to explore available cars.

What we think about the Jaguar F-Type

The F-Type looks good, sounds amazing and drives well. It’s not perfect, but if you’re looking for a sleek sports car, it’s worth exploring.

Pros

+

Modern yet classic looks

+

Very quick and handles well

+

Brilliant-sounding engines

Cons

Not very practical

Adding options can get expensive

Infotainment system isn’t exceptional

The F-Type has a wide range of trim and engine options, allowing it to compete with a number of models from other manufacturers. It starts with standard trim and goes up to SVR, passing R-Dynamic and R editions on the way.

Driving performance of the Jaguar F Pace

Our Driving Rating8 / 10

Even the entry-level 2.0-litre engine has a 0-60 mph time of 5.7 seconds, but the SVR spec’s 5.0-litre V8 gloriously growls to 60 in just 3.7 seconds. The handling and responsiveness of the F-Type give you the confidence to drive it hard when you want to, but the ride quality is relaxed enough for cruising too. Plus, V8s come with adjustable suspension so you can firm or soften it as you need. Meanwhile, the automatic transmission reacts well and, perhaps surprisingly, can improve acceleration and fuel economy.

Safety and reliability of the Jaguar F Pace

Our Safety Rating8 / 10

The F-Type hasn’t been tested by Euro NCAP, but it does have a decent range of safety features. There’s a host of braking aids, so prepare yourself! Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD) gives you more stability by balancing braking across all wheels and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) helps you to apply the brakes hard in an emergency. 2018 saw the introduction of Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), which automatically applies the brakes for you before an accident. Reliability-wise, the F-Type is unlikely to let you down.

Under the bonnet of the Jaguar F Pace

Our Engine Rating8 / 10

To misquote Henry Ford, you can have any engine as long as it’s petrol! The range starts with a 2.0-litre offering, delivering a 0-60 mph time of 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph. There are 3.0-litre V6 and 5.0-litre V8 options too, both tuned to differing levels of power, dependent on trim. The 3.0-litre takes the 0-60 just below 5 seconds if you choose the higher-powered model. The 566 bhp 5.0-litre powers you to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, proving the expression “you’re never late in a V8.”

What you'll find in the Jaguar F Pace

Our Design Rating8 / 10

The F-Type certainly holds its own in the two-seater category. It’s perfectly proportioned, incredibly stylish and manages to look both classic and modern. Facelifts have helped to keep it fresh too, with the 2020 update adding sharper, sleeker looks without taking away from the old-school cool. There’s a range of colours, from refined British Racing Green to in-your-face Sorrento Yellow. SVR trim gives the F-Type a bulkier, more aggressive, stance befitting its power – pair it with that yellow paintwork if you want to really turn heads.

Comfort and interiors in the Jaguar F Pace

Our Comfort Rating7 / 10

This is an interior that feels good to be in – particularly if you’re the driver, as everything is set up for you. The materials feel high-quality and everything you need is within reach. Jaguar has managed to balance modern sportiness with comfort and luxury. While it’s fairly roomy in the driver’s seat, this car is not entirely practical – but that’s probably not why you’re buying it. The 310-litre boot will require some careful luggage choices, thanks to the sloping roofline, and the convertible loses more space to roof storage, so it only has 207 litres.

Jaguar F-Type steering wheel

What features you'll find in the Jaguar F Pace

Our Features Rating7 / 10

Alloy wheels, sat nav, parking sensors and electrically-adjustable seats are standard across the range. Keep in mind that Jaguar has improved its standard offering over the years, so if you’re buying used, be sure to check for dealbreaker features. R and SVR specs have all-wheel-drive as standard. The infotainment system is absolutely usable but lacks the intuitiveness found in other manufacturers’ offerings. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now available but will be absent from earlier models.

What fuel efficiency to expect from the Jaguar F Pace

Our Fuel Consumption Rating8 / 10

The 2.0-litre engine is unsurprisingly the most fuel-efficient at 29.2 mpg. The 3.0-litre V6 is slightly less at 27.6 mpg and is only one insurance group higher. Given the small difference here, you may want to consider the larger engine, which is arguably a better drive. The range-topping 5.0-litre V8 in the SVR has a stated figure of just 25 mpg, but the pleasure of driving it may help ease the pain of the fuel costs.

Running costs of the Jaguar F Pace

Our Cost Rating7 / 10

Insurance groups range from 42 to 50, as you might expect. Servicing is unlikely to be cheap either, particularly on the bigger engines, and Jaguar parts are not known for their low cost. Drive it too hard and brake and tyre costs will add up as well. But then, this is a sports car from a prestige brand, so there’s something of a price to be paid for that performance and badge value. If buying new, there’s a 3-year, unlimited-mileage warranty.

Our verdict of the Jaguar F Pace

4.0 rating

4 / 5 Gumtree rating

This is a very stylish, British sports car with head-turning abilities and on-road manners that will make you smile. It's certainly worthy of consideration against its German competitors.