The Jaguar F-Type is preparing to receive its first important one-piece makeover since its introduction back in 2014 - the machine has already received progressive tech updates bringing AWD and a manual to the list of options. And the British engineers have been pushing the cat hard on the Nurburgring this week.
Given the overly strong Grand Tourer genes in Jaguar's DNA, the motorized felines can't be the quickest in their class. Even so, the increasing pressure from competitors such as the Porsche 911 and the Mercedes-AMG GT means that the British automaker is working hard to improve the lap times of the F-Type.
For now, the info on the powertrains of the mid-cycle revamp model is extremely limited, but assuming the supercharged 3.0-liter V6 and the just-as-blown 5.0-liter V8 will get decent power bumps might not be the correct path.
For one thing, the rumor mill talks about Jaguar following the turbo-four example Porsche delivered with the 718 Boxster and Cayman, introducing a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-pot as the base engine.
The line-up emission reduction offered by this engine would allow Jaguar to keep the supercharged units mentioned above in place, even though the rumor mill talks about the automaker working to occupy the engine compartment of the F-Type with a new turbocharged straight-six (we talked about Jaguar and Mercedes-Benz potentially sharing in-line six engine development, but that had to do with diesels, so we'll still have to wait for new info).
As far as the eye is concerned, the prototype seen here shows what appear to be adaptive LED headlights. The list of front end changes also includes a more sculpted apron with more efficient air intakes, while the front grille bar seems to have gotten thicker.
The 2018 Jaguar F-Type is expected to debut in the first half of next year and we can't wait to hear more of its feline predator growl.
In his quest to bring you the most impressive automotive creations, Andrei relies on learning as a superpower. There's quite a bit of room in the garage that is this aficionado's heart, so factory-condition classics and widebody contraptions with turbos poking through the hood can peacefully coexist. Full profile
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