Skip to main content

Jaguar’s 2018 F-Type debuts in NY with turbo 4-cylinder, GoPro video recording

Jaguar’s F-Type sports car is getting a refreshed look, new powertrains, and cool technology for the 2018 model year. Debuting at this year’s New York Auto Show, the updated F-Type now has a wider range of variants, making the model accessible to more people.

The 2018 F-Type headliner is an entry-level version powered by a new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder good for 296 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Even with a smaller motor, the most basic F-Type can hit 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, thanks in part to a weight savings of 114 pounds compared to the V6 model. The only transmission option will be an eight-speed automatic.

Recommended Videos

“Introducing our advanced four-cylinder engine to the F-TYPE has created a vehicle with its own distinct character,” said Ian Hoban, vehicle line director for Jaguar F-TYPE. “Performance from an engine of this size is remarkable and is balanced with improved fuel efficiency and affordability, making the F-TYPE experience more accessible than ever before.”

Apart from a new engine, the entire F-Type range benefits from Jaguar’s standard InControl Touch Pro infotainment system. The updated unit features smartphone-like pinch-to-zoom and swipe functionality, live traffic and weather data, and ETA sharing.

Jaguar also announced a partnership with GoPro and its ReRun app. A mounted GoPro camera captures live video (ideally during track driving) and overlays the footage with performance data like speed, throttle position, gear selection, braking force, and G-force. The final output can be downloaded and shared via smartphone. Chevy offers a similar system in its Corvette, but the F-Type’s GoPro system will give drivers more information.

Jaguar is also differentiating its F-Type range with a unique front bumper for each of the four versions. The most notable change is a replacement of the “shark gill” intake slats with a large, single mesh opening. This styling cue is pulled directly from the F-Type SVR and gives a car a more aggressive look. Full LED headlights also sharpen the front design and complement J-Blade daytime running lights. The only rearward change is darker taillight housings.

Inside, new Slimline seats add comfort while cutting weight. The seats’ aluminum alloy frame cuts 17 pounds from previous-generation sport buckets. Two ergonomic designs will be available – sport, and a more aggressively bolstered performance chair.

The 2018 F-Type will be offered in standard, Sport, R, and SVR trims. A Sport 400 special edition is offered for the 2018 model year only, with a tuned version of the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 making – you guessed it – 400hp. Other tweaks on the Sport 400 include bigger front and rear brakes, 20-inch Dark Satin wheels, and drive modes to adjust the dampers, throttle mapping, steering, and shift speed.

The 2018 F-Type goes on sale later this year, starting at $59,900.

Miles Branman
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Miles Branman doesn't need sustenance; he needs cars. While the gearhead gene wasn't strong in his own family, Miles…
My next car must have this Carplay and Android Auto feature, here’s why
Google Maps in full screen on the driver's second display on the Chevy Equinox 2025

I’ve been driving a Chevrolet Equinox 2025 SUV rental car for the past week, and it’s reminded me exactly what my next car needs. It runs Android Automotive, which I’ve already decided is a requirement in my next car, but the more convenient feature is arguably how Chevrolet has approached its CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

CarPlay and Android Auto offer immense benefits and virtually no pitfalls to drivers. They’re designed to bring your phone and its apps into your car, and make it easier to access up-to-date maps and traffic data without relying on often-archaic solutions implemented by your carmaker.

Read more
Waymo lays groundwork for robotaxi revolution
A Waymo car production line.

In recent years, Waymo has been edging toward its long-held goal of revolutionizing urban transportation by deploying a fully autonomous, scalable, and sustainable ride-hailing service. 

The Alphabet-owned company has just taken another step in that direction with the opening of a new vehicle factory in Metro Phoenix, Arizona, in partnership with automaker Magna.

Read more
Ram resurrects 1500 Express trim as an affordable option
ram 1500 express return affordable 2026

Ram is revving up excitement with the return of an old favorite—the 2026 Ram 1500 Express. Reintroduced as a more affordable option in the full-size truck lineup, the Express trim brings back a combination of rugged style, respectable performance, and most importantly, a price tag that won’t send buyers running for the hills.

Starting at $41,105 for the base Quad Cab configuration (and just under $45,000 for the Crew Cab), the new Express offers a budget-friendly alternative in a market where full-size trucks can easily cross the $60,000 mark.

Read more