Jaguar F-TYPE tops SA’s sports-car sales

The addition of the F-TYPE R Coupé with all-wheel drive (AWD) has extended the buyer’s options in terms of driving, as Jaguar refers to it, “the art of performance”.

“F-TYPE has been a popular choice in its segment, since its launch, yet it remains exclusive,” says Lisa Mallett, marketing and communications director of Jaguar Land Rover South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa. “With an eye-catching design, which won it a World Car of the Year award, F-TYPE buyers can have a car that allows them to stand out. Its stunning exterior is complimented by a beautifully finished interior, and its selection of powerful engines make the F-TYPE a true iconic sports car.”

The F-TYPE was introduced in 2013. Nearly 600 F-TYPEs have been sold since then and June 2015. A 100 of these were sold in the first six months of the year – its nearest competitor sold 70 units during the same period. The F-TYPE’s trophy cabinet boasts more than 20 awards from all over the world, where it has been honoured with titles that include Car of the Year, Coupé of the Year, Convertible of the Year, Best Performance Car, and Dream Car.

F-TYPE buyers can choose from three convertible and four coupé variants, as well as supercharged V6 and V8 engines offering between 250kW and 405kW of power. The F-TYPE Convertible has proven most popular with buyers, since the launch, with 65% of sales accounting for the topless model. The F-TYPE R Coupé, holds the current South African land-speed record-holder for production cars, with a recorded speed of 294,68km/h.

Unsurprisingly, many buyers have also opted for the Switchable Active Sports Exhaust. The latter can be quiet and refined at highway speed, or, once activated let drivers enjoy the cacophonous roar of the F-TYPE’s mighty engine at full chat.

“Later this year five special F-TYPEs will be added to the sales figures, as Special Vehicle Operations’ F-TYPE Project 7 makes its way to South Africa,” says Mallett. “With only 250 ever being made, Project 7 will be something very special for motoring connoisseurs who want the ultimate F-TYPE, and the ultimate in exclusivity.”