LA LIVE: 2016 Jaguar F-Type

Jaguar has unveiled its updated F-Type range at the Los Angeles auto show. Improvements for the 2016 model year include the addition of all-wheel drive on top-end coupes, a newly available six-speed manual on V6-powered models and a high-performance convertible.
Squarely aiming at its German rivals, Jaguar will offer the 2016 F-Type S Coupe with an optional all-wheel drive system. Buyers of higher-spec R models will get AWD as standard kit.

The company claims the new F-Type R Coupe AWD can hit 60mph in just 3.9 seconds, a tenth of a second quicker than its rear-wheel drive counterpart. Top speed remains unchanged at 186mph.

“Our target with engineering the all-wheel-drive F-Type was to maintain the engaging rear-drive character that’s so important to Jaguar sports cars, yet offer even greater dynamic capability,” said Jaguar Vehicle Line Director Ian Hoban.

Additionally, Jaguar is rolling out a new six-speed manual for certain 2016 F-Type models. The row-it-yourself six will be exclusive to F-Type V6 models, which offer either 340 or 380 horsepower, depending on trim.

Finally, a new high-performance R Convertible is joining the range for 2016. Slotting above the current V8 S — which boasts 495 horsepower — the R Convertible arrives with 550 horsepower.