Friday, 10 April 2015
Jaguar F-Type R Coupe
The
all-aluminium Jaguar F-Type Coupé - the most dynamically capable,
performance-focused sports car that Jaguar has ever produced - is
available in three versions: F-Type R, F-Type S and the F-Type. The range-topping Jaguar F-Type R Coupé is powered by Jaguar's 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine in 550PS/680Nm tune, delivering acceleration to 60mph in 4.0-seconds, and a top speed of 186mph (electronically limited).
The F-Type S Coupé and F-Type Coupé are powered by Jaguar's 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol engines in 380PS/460Nm and 340PS/450Nm forms respectively, giving 0-60mph in 4.8/5.1-seconds and top speeds of 171/161mph.
The Jaguar F-Type Coupé embodies the uncompromised design vision of the stunning Jaguar C-X16 concept sports coupé that debuted at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, its dramatic cabin-rearward stance being defined by three heartlines. The first two heartlines - shared with F-Type Convertible - form the muscular front and rear wings, the third heartline being the sweeping Coupé roof profile which provides an unbroken silhouette while emphasising the visual drama of the tapered cabin sitting between powerful rear haunches.
"The F-Type Coupé provides its driver with a unique sports car experience. It combines seductive design with cutting-edge technology and performance which is truly breathtaking. Engaging, precise, intuitive and alive - it is the definitive sports Coupé." Phil Popham, Group Marketing Director, Jaguar Land Rover
Jaguar's expertise in aluminium technology has enabled the design
vision for the F-Type Coupé to be delivered in a lightweight yet
extremely strong bodyshell. Torsional rigidity for all F-Type Coupé
variants is 33,000 Nm/degree - greater than in any previous production
Jaguar - this rigidity providing the basis for excellent dynamic
attributes.
The F-Type Coupé's body side is made from a
single-piece aluminium pressing, probably the most extreme cold-formed
aluminium body side in the automotive industry, eliminating the
requirement for multiple panels and cosmetic joints. The roof panel
itself is available in either aluminium or panoramic glass form. A
deployable rear spoiler sits within the tapered shut-line of the F-Type
Coupé, while slim, wrap-around LED lamps flank a beautifully engineered
tailgate, with optional powered open/close functionality.
To
deliver assured, progressive handling in line with its 550PS output, the
range-topping Jaguar F-Type R Coupé features a bespoke suspension
set-up and new dynamic technologies. These include a second-generation
Electronic Active Differential (EAD) and - for the first time on a
Jaguar - Torque Vectoring by braking, these systems working in parallel
to provide immediacy of response and exploitable handling. The EAD
system automatically redistributes engine torque between the rear wheels
to ensure excellent on-the-limit control, while Torque Vectoring by
braking intelligently applies precisely metered braking force to the
inner wheels as necessary during cornering to enhance agility. Sports
suspension with Adaptive Dynamics damping and Configurable Dynamic Mode
further enhance the F-Type R's immediacy of response, providing an
exhilarating and involving driving experience.
F-Type R and F-Type
S Coupé models also have the option of Carbon Ceramic Matrix (CCM)
brakes which offer absolute consistency of performance and excellent
fade resistance, as well as a total unsprung-weight saving of 21kg.
Every
F-Type Coupé model utilises Jaguar's eight-speed close-ratio Quickshift
transmission which is optimised for sporting performance, with full
manual sequential control from the central SportShift selector or
steering wheel-mounted paddles.
The F-Type Coupé range complements
the existing three-car F-Type Convertible model line-up; the V6-engined
F-Type (340PS) and F-Type S (380PS), and the 495PS F-Type V8 S.
DESIGN AND STRUCTURE
Visual
appeal is fundamental to Jaguar and, as such, the F-Type Coupé is
immediately recognisable, building on the design of the stunning C-X16
concept sports Coupé and the F-Type Convertible - winner of the 2013
'World Car Design of the Year' award.
"Creating a sports Coupé is
the purest of design tasks, and also the most challenging; get it right
and aesthetically the result will be as dynamic as the car should be
rewarding to drive. In F-Type Coupé, I believe we've got it right. The
purity of the C-X16 concept has been retained without compromise; the
F-Type Coupé's long bonnet, low roofline and tapering cabin inspire me
every time I see it." Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar
The
F-Type Coupé visual message is defined by three key 'heartlines', that
visual message beginning with the formidable grille. It is from the twin
'shark gill' openings that sit either side of the grille that the
essential first heartline - which mirrors the design of the F-Type
Convertible - flows and begins to take shape. Running up through the
headlamp, and accentuated by the LED 'J blade' daylight running lamps,
the line then arcs up over the front wheelarch before dropping elegantly
as it runs through the door, washing out into the muscular rear haunch.
The
Coupé's second heartline, also shared with the Convertible, begins at
the rear edge of the door, swelling outwards and upwards to create a
visually strong wheelarch, emphasising the car's rear-wheel drive
layout, before dropping vertically through the tail lamp.
The
third heartline forms the Coupé's dramatic, cabin-rearward, sweeping
roof profile. Providing an unbroken silhouette, it highlights the visual
drama of the tapered cabin nestled between the powerful rear haunches.
The distinctive side window graphic, finished as standard in bright
aluminium, accentuates both the compactness of the car and the roof
profile.
Jaguar's expertise in aluminium vehicle architecture has
been essential in enabling both the F-Type Coupé's uncompromised design
aesthetic, while delivering the fundamental dynamic attributes -
essential to any sports car - of low mass and an extremely rigid body.
Measuring 33,000 Nm/degree, the F-Type Coupé is the most torsionally
rigid production car Jaguar has ever built.
A fundamental
requirement for excellent dynamic attributes, delivering that rigidity
figure required some innovative engineering solutions in order to
maximise strength without impacting on the design vision. Due to the
lack of B-pillars, Jaguar's engineers were presented with the challenge
of keeping the design's sleek, pillarless, low roofline - combined with
the need to create the optimum amount of interior space - while still
achieving the necessary rigidity and strength targets. The solution was a
high-strength, hydro-formed aluminium alloy beam which runs from the
front of the A-pillar through to the back of the D-pillar, through the
door opening line and back to the rear quarter window.
The F-Type
Coupé is available with either aluminium or panoramic glass roof panels
that are bonded into the main roof structure - torsional rigidity is
identical regardless of which roof is fitted.
The F-Type Coupé's
dramatic body sides are single-piece aluminium pressings - probably the
most extreme cold-formed aluminium body side outer panels in the
automotive industry. These exceptionally deep-draw aluminium pressings
have totally eliminated the requirement for joints in the panel surface.
The body side panel is fabricated from high-strength and formable AC600
aluminium, which has also been used for structural reinforcement - both
engineering firsts for Jaguar. The use of AC300 T61 aluminium in the
body structure of the car provides additional strength thanks to its
energy absorbing properties, ensuring maximum occupant protection.
In
order to achieve the required aesthetic at the rear of the car, the
F-Type Coupé features a hidden rear spoiler that sits within the tapered
shut-line of the tailgate, and rises at speed in order to balance front
and rear lift. The spoiler automatically rises at 70mph and lowers when
the speed drops below 50mph, reducing lift by up to 120kg.
The
width of the tail is emphasised by the slim, full-LED lamps that wrap
all the way around the wings almost to the trailing edge of the rear
wheelarches. These lamps feature hidden-until-lit technology, appearing
solid until one of their functions is activated. The F-Type Coupé also
features a 'ribbon of light' LED high-mounted stop light, which is
hidden at the top of the beautifully engineered tailgate. The tailgate,
available with powered open/close functionality, is made from composite
materials, the boot-volume itself being up to 407-litres.
Aluminium
forms a significant part of Jaguar's commitment to sustainability with
up to half the content of the body coming from recycled metal. In
addition, the F-Type Coupé's structure is exclusively riveted and bonded
- this manufacturing process emits up to 80% less CO2 compared to that
from welding a comparable steel structure. Jaguar is also rolling out
its closed-loop aluminium recycling system to its suppliers, ensuring
all offcuts of metal from the manufacturing process are reused.
F-TYPE R COUPE
The
Jaguar F-Type R Coupé represents the pinnacle of the F-Type range.
Powered by Jaguar's 5.0-litre supercharged petrol V8 all-aluminium
engine in 550PS and 680Nm form, the F-Type R Coupé achieves headline
figures of 0-60mph in 4.0-seconds with an electronically limited top
speed of 186mph, 50-75mph taking a mere 2.4-seconds. CO2 emissions are
259g/km.
"The F-Type R Coupé represents the pinnacle of Jaguar's R
Performance range - its power, performance and immediacy of response
will reward the most enthusiastic of drivers while, most importantly,
we've engineered the chassis to provide exploitable handling that
inspires confidence. It's precise, and it's fast… a true driver's car."
Mike Cross, Chief Engineer, Vehicle Integrity, Jaguar
The R
Coupé's supercharged engine delivers not only exhilarating performance
but also tremendous efficiency thanks to the technologies incorporated
into it, including spray-guided direct injection (SGDI) and dual
independent variable cam timing (DIVCT). The high-pressure die-cast
lightweight aluminium block is stiffened with cast-iron liners and
cross-bolted main bearing caps, providing refinement to match its power.
The four-valve cylinder heads are constructed from high-grade, bespoke
aluminium, between them sitting the Roots-type twin vortex supercharger
fed by two intercoolers, which feature their own water-cooling circuit
to reduce the temperature of the pressurised air, thereby optimising
power and efficiency.
The torsional rigidity of the Jaguar F-Type R
Coupé's aluminium structure has ensured the best possible basis for
offering the connected feel, agility and engaging driving experience
expected of a Jaguar sports car. Every response, from the steering to
the gearchange, throttle, brakes and the all-round double wishbone
suspension, has been finely honed to be accurate, involving and
immediate.
The F-Type R Coupé is fitted with Jaguar's Adaptive
Dynamics system that actively controls vertical body movement, roll and
pitch rates. The system continuously monitors driver inputs and the
attitude of the car on the road, adjusting damper rates accordingly up
to 500 times a second to optimise stability. For the F-Type R, the
Adaptive Dynamics controlling software has a bespoke tune, working in
tandem with revised spring rates all-round to deliver consistent,
progressive and exploitable handling. Spring rates are increased by 4.3%
at the front and 3.7% at the rear (compared to F-Type V8 S
Convertible).
Engaging Dynamic mode delivers an even more focused
driving experience thanks to enhanced body control through firmer
damping rates, increased steering weighting, faster gear changes and
sharper throttle response. In the F-Type R Coupé, Dynamic mode is
configurable as standard via the central 8in touchscreen, allowing the
driver to select and save settings according to their preference.
In
addition to the fundamental suspension tune changes, the Jaguar F-Type R
Coupé features a new second-generation Electronic Active Differential
which, for the first time on a Jaguar, works in conjunction with Torque
Vectoring by braking. Together, the two systems ensure agility at all
speeds and exploitable on-the-limit handling.
The F-Type R Coupé's
Electronic Active Differential (EAD) builds on the progressive handling
advantages of a mechanical limited-slip differential by intelligently
controlling the amount of driveline torque fed to each wheel. The EAD
utilises an electric motor which operates a multiplate clutch; by
rapidly and continuously analysing a range of electronic inputs it is
able to immediately vary torque transfer to each driven wheel to
maximise traction in any condition.
The EAD system fitted to the
F-Type R Coupé features a highly sophisticated second-generation
controller. It continuously estimates surface friction, comparing that
to the driver's torque demand and delivering accurate locking torque as a
result. A new handling controller also means the EAD has the ability to
match the car's response more accurately with the driver's inputs
during both on-power understeer or off-power oversteer conditions.
Working in parallel with the Torque Vectoring by braking system, the
controller is capable of reacting to the ECU's torque request - ranging
from open to full locking torque - in under 200 milliseconds.
Torque
Vectoring by braking - a standard feature on F-Type R Coupé - applies
finely metered braking torque individually to the inner wheels as
necessary, helping to turn the car into corners more precisely. Using
the Jaguar F-Type R Coupé's array of electronic sensors, the Torque
Vectoring system determines when corner entry speed may induce
understeer. It then calculates the level of brake force needed to
correct the car's direction and, via the ABS system, applies that
precise braking force to individual inner wheels as necessary. Torque
Vectoring by braking works at a subtle level, both correctively and
predictively, finely adjusting the trajectory of the F-Type R Coupé for
optimal handling.
The F-Type R's EAD and Torque Vectoring by
braking systems - which work together with the car's Dynamic Stability
Control system - complement each other to optimise traction, cornering
ability and, most importantly, to maximise steering feel and agility.
Torque Vectoring by braking works to fine-tune trajectory around a
corner, and as the car is pushed further to its limits, there is a
natural, seamless transition to EAD.
As a result, the use of
available grip is always optimised, enabling the F-Type R Coupé to carry
more speed both into, through and out of corners, while delivering
precision handling during high-speed manoeuvres.
The Jaguar F-Type
R Coupé uses Jaguar's Super Performance braking system as standard.
This system features 380mm front and 376mm rear discs - with red or
black painted calipers. Brake cooling is optimised via under-body
channelling of air, the air-flow being derived through the use of
Computational Fluid Dynamics analysis.
The R Coupé is also
available with optional Carbon Ceramic Matrix (CCM) brakes which offer
consistent performance and excellent fade resistance even during extreme
performance driving conditions, while retaining the precise pedal feel
of the standard system and extending disc life in everyday driving use.
The
F-Type's eight-speed 'Quickshift' transmission has been recalibrated to
make the best use of the F-Type R Coupé's 550PS engine. Its eight,
closely-stacked, sporting ratios help to fully exploit the engine's rev
range and ensure that it remains within its optimal power band with
every gearchange. Manual control is available to the driver at any time,
using either the steering wheel-mounted paddles or the central
SportShift selector.
The F-Type R Coupé's switchable Active Sports
Exhaust system - with its signature quad, outboard-mounted tailpipes -
takes the aural excitement delivered by the 550PS engine to new levels.
It offers an authentic, rich sound, developing to a howling crescendo as
the upper limits of the rev range are reached. The system uses
electronically controlled bypass valves in the rear section of the
exhaust which are mapped to open according to a range of parameters,
effectively altering the exhaust gas routing into a free-flowing
straight-through arrangement to both reduce back pressure and enhance
sound quality. Selecting Dynamic mode also opens the bypass valves, an
optional override button enabling further driver control of the system.
The
Jaguar F-Type R Coupé's aerodynamic bodywork - gloss black front vanes
beneath the shark gills and flat side sill extensions - aid its
stability at the very high speeds of which it is capable. As standard
the R Coupé's window finishes are highlighted in bright anodised
aluminium along the frames of the side glass, with the grille surround
and side air vents in bright chrome, while the optional Black Pack adds
gloss black window finishers, gloss black side power air vents and a
gloss black grille surround. The front splitter, side power vents, door
mirrors casings, bonnet power vents and engine cover are also available
in carbon fibre.
20in 'Gyrodyne' wheels in silver finish are
standard on the F-Type R Coupé, while a dark grey and diamond-turned
version is optional. As on any F-Type specified with 20in wheels, the
F-Type R Coupé is available with optional ultra-high performance tyres
which, with a unique tread pattern, offer additional steering precision,
and increased levels of grip for the enthusiast driver.
Interior
Like
all models in the F-Type range, the R Coupé's driver-focused cabin
clearly conveys the car's pedigree and sporting prowess, through a
combination of taut, technical styling, involving interfaces and premium
materials and textures.
The Jaguar F-Type R Coupé's Performance
seats have inflatable side-bolstering and prominent wings for support
during high-speed cornering. The seats are finished in premium leather,
with the 'R' logo embossed on the headrest. A pure 'Jet' interior
colourway is offered with three options of contrast stitching - Ivory,
Red or Firesand - on the instrument panels, door casings, grab-handle
highlight and cubby box. There are a further three sporting options on
the Jet seats - Ivory, Camel or Red duo-tones, each with
similarly-matched contrast stitching.
The Jaguar F-Type R Coupé's
premium trim also includes leather on the instrument panel and binnacle,
armrests, door inserts and the centre console. Leather or Suedecloth
headlinings are optional. The driver-focused cockpit conveys its
sporting intentions with a small-diameter, flat-bottomed steering wheel
wrapped in Jet leather with the R logo. A round wheel is a no-cost
option.
A new, full leather and Suedecloth Jet interior (with
Cirrus contrast stitch) is also optional on all derivatives. Suedecloth
is used on the seat facings, door casings, instrument binnacle pods and
headlining - and can also be combined with a Suedecloth steering wheel.
F-TYPE COUPÉ AND S COUPÉ
The
Jaguar F-Type Coupé is also available in two V6-supercharged powered
petrol variants, both driving the rear wheels through eight-speed
Quickshift transmissions; the F-Type Coupé and the F-Type S Coupé.
Featuring the same rigid yet lightweight Coupé bodyshell as the F-Type
R, and combined with a finely tuned focus on ride, handling and
performance, both the F-Type Coupé and F-Type S Coupé are true drivers'
cars.
The F-Type Coupé is powered by Jaguar's 3.0-litre V6
supercharged petrol engine in 340PS/450Nm tune, and is capable of
0-60mph in 5.1-seconds with an electronically limited top speed of 161
mph. Standard features include Dynamic Mode, sports exhaust - both V6
models use twin, centrally-mounted tailpipes - sports suspension and
Jaguar's Performance Braking system (354/325mm discs front/rear) with
silver calipers. The F-Type Coupé is fitted as standard with 18in Vela
wheels, partial leather/Suedecloth sports seats and a leather steering
wheel with black paddles.
The F-Type S Coupé, powered by Jaguar's
3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol engine in 380PS/460Nm tune is capable
of 0-60mph in 4.8-seconds on its way to an electronically limited top
speed of 171 mph. It features Dynamic Mode, Dynamic Launch, Active
Sports Exhaust, sports suspension with Adaptive Dynamics, Jaguar's High
Performance Braking system (380/325mm discs front/rear) with red
calipers and a mechanical limited-slip differential. Both Jaguar's Super
Performance and CCM braking systems are optional. The F-Type S Coupé is
fitted as standard with 19in Propeller wheels, leather sports seats and
a leather steering wheel with Ignis paddles.
All F-Type models -
Coupé and Convertible - are equipped with Jaguar's Intelligent
Stop/Start system which, when conditions allow, automatically shuts down
the engine when the car comes to a halt and the driver's foot is on the
brake pedal. When the brake is released, the system can restart the
engine in less time than it takes for the driver's foot to move from the
brake to the accelerator. The system offers fuel economy and emissions
benefits of up to 5 per cent.
The F-Type Coupé model range is
available with three audio systems, two of which come from globally
recognised British experts Meridian. These offer either 10 or 12
loudspeakers with outputs of 380W and 770W respectively. The Meridian
systems benefit from the company's huge experience in digital signal
processing to create audio reproduction that is second to none. The top
of the range offering also features Meridian's proprietary Trifield
technology, which delivers an authentic and consistent surround sound to
both occupants.
CARBON CERAMIC MATRIX BRAKES
The
F-Type R and S Coupé models have an exclusive option of Carbon Ceramic
Matrix (CCM) brakes. Vivid yellow monoblock calipers - six-piston at the
front and four-piston at the rear - grip 398mm front and 380mm rear
brake discs made from a matrix of carbon fibre and ceramic, which is
extremely hard and highly resistant to wear.
The CCM system offers
consistent performance and excellent fade resistance even during
sustained extreme driving conditions, while retaining the precise pedal
feel of the standard system. Reduced wear and tear in day-to-day driving
also means extended disc life.
CCM brakes offer considerable
weight savings over standard steel brakes - the overall 21kg reduction
in unsprung weight further enhancing handling dynamics. As CCM brakes
generate more surface temperature than steel brakes, open-air intakes on
the bumper and deflectors on the anti-roll bar direct increased airflow
to the braking system - the attention to detail even extending to the
use of new, heat-resistant valve caps.
CCM brakes feature a
pre-fill system function that applies a low brake pressure to all four
calipers when the throttle is released - and before the brake pedal is
pressed again. The pre-fill system ensures a consistent brake pedal
feel, and is tuned for speed proportionality. This means that at higher
speeds it will give a consistently sharp, confidence-inspiring response,
while at low car park type speeds the system will provide a more
comfort-biased pedal feel.
Specify CCM brakes and the F-Type R or S
Coupé will come with 20in 'Storm' wheels. As standard these are in a
satin grey anthracite finish, but an optional, forged version with gloss
black/diamond-turned finish is offered.
