Jaguar F-Type Four-Cylinder Spotted Testing at Nürburgring
Jaguar has been heard testing a four-cylinder F-Type at the Nürburgring, confirming the arrival of a lighter, turbocharged entry model in the sports car range.
Jaguar has been heard testing a four-cylinder version of its F-Type sports car at the Nürburgring, as the company prepares to expand the model range with a lighter, turbocharged entry-level variant. The development comes ahead of the official launch of the 2018 F-Type powered by a 2.0-litre Ingenium four-cylinder engine, marking a shift for the model that until now has relied on V6 and V8 power.
The four-cylinder F-Type uses a 1997cc turbocharged Ingenium engine, a direct-injection unit already found in the F-Pace and XE, but here tuned for sports car duty. Jaguar claims 296 bhp and 295 lb-ft of torque, with a single twin-scroll turbocharger and a cylinder head-integrated exhaust manifold for quicker warm-up and improved emissions. The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission driving the rear wheels.
What changes with the four-cylinder F-Type?
The move to a four-cylinder brings more than just a new engine note. Jaguar says the new model is about 115 pounds lighter than the previous V6 entry-level F-Type, with revised spring rates and recalibrated electric power steering to suit the reduced mass. The lighter front end alters the car’s balance, giving it a more agile, less tail-happy feel compared to the V6 and V8 versions. While the V6 and V8 cars are known for their rear-biased antics, the four-cylinder model is said to be more composed and confidence-inspiring through corners.
Externally, the four-cylinder F-Type is distinguished by a single, centrally mounted rhomboid exhaust tip, rather than the twin or quad pipes of the V6 and V8. The model also gains new full LED headlights with J-Blade daytime running lamps, and thinner, lighter magnesium-framed seats. Inside, the F-Type receives Jaguar’s updated InControl Touch Pro infotainment system and a suite of new driver assistance features, including emergency braking and lane keep assist.
Performance and pricing
Jaguar quotes a 0-60 mph time of 5.4 seconds for the four-cylinder F-Type, with a starting price in the US market of $60,895 for the 2018 model year. The engine’s lighter weight and improved efficiency are expected to deliver better fuel economy and lower emissions compared to the outgoing V6. The car’s lighter character and revised dynamics aim to broaden the F-Type’s appeal, offering a more accessible entry point to the range without sacrificing the brand’s sporting credentials.
Why the Nürburgring?
Testing at the Nürburgring is a standard part of development for sports cars aiming for sharp handling and high-speed stability. The circuit’s mix of fast corners, elevation changes and unforgiving surfaces provides a demanding environment to finalise suspension, steering and engine calibration. For the four-cylinder F-Type, the ‘Ring offers a chance to demonstrate that Jaguar’s smallest-engined sports car still meets the brand’s expectations for driver engagement and performance.
