Since the launch of the XK120 in 1948, sports cars have been integral to Jaguar’s model line-up. In fact, it is a great pity that the XK prefix was ditched in favour of F-Type, although it has managed to lift more than 170 global automotive awards. To celebrate the seven decades, the F-Type has been enhanced by the creation of the Chequered Flag Special Edition.
Based on the F-Type R-Dynamic Coupé and Convertible, it is available with both four and six-cylinder power units. However, the Chequered Flag versions also feature a range of visual enhancements that include a black roof on the Coupé and a luxurious leather interior, with performance seats carrying embossed headrests. A dark brushed aluminium centre console trim finisher and, in recognition of Jaguar’s motorsport successes, a steering wheel with discrete Chequered Flag logo and red leather band that marks the 12 o’clock position complete the package.
Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar, said: “Perfect proportions, design purity and visual drama…every Jaguar must express these qualities and none more so than the F-Type. In creating the Chequered Flag version, we’ve focused on details that enhance the car’s presence and its promise of performance. In doing so, I believe that we have made a fitting celebration of 70 years of beautiful, fast, Jaguar sports cars.”
The F-Type’s attractive exterior is enhanced by the exterior Black Design Pack, which benefits from SVO (the firm’s sporting arm) extended side sills that increase visual width subtly and give the car even greater on-road presence and poise. The 20.0-inch gloss black alloy wheels are exclusive to the Chequered Flag and complement perfectly the red stove-enamelled finish of the brake calipers.
The Touch Pro infotainment system, now improved on the original touch-screen system, features Meridian audio, a suite of connected services and, for the first time in F-Type, Apple CarPlay and Android auto, to make it easier than ever to access tailored smartphone apps using the 10.0-inch interface.
Power comes from the 296bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium, or the 336bhp and 376bhp supercharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engines. All offer an excellent balance of responsiveness, power and efficiency, accompanied by a visceral soundtrack, which reflects the F-Type’s intentionally driver-focused character. All engines are mated to eight-speed ‘quick-shift’ automatic transmissions that drive the rear wheels, or specially for the 376bhp version, the choice of Jaguar’s all-wheel-drive system, with Intelligent Driveline Dynamics.
Jaguar F-Type Chequered Flag editions are available now, list-priced from £62,335, prior to FCD discounts being applied. Interestingly, learning from the SVR derivatives, the damper tuning on the F-Type has been refined, giving an improved level of ride comfort at lower speeds, by reducing it by 24% at the lower damping velocities, while increasing overall capacity by up to 30%.
In addition, the rear upper ball joint from the SVR has been incorporated into the F-Type R, with modifications to the rear knuckle and upper control arm, further enhancing capability and system robustness. The rear camera and front parking aid are now provided as standard across all F-Type derivatives. Regular versions of the Jaguar F-Type are available from £51,925.
