Jaguar F-Type Debuts Officially Before Paris Motor Show

Officially re-entering the sports car market for the first time since its E-Type left it in 1974, the 2014 Jaguar F-Type made its official debut today ahead of the Paris Motor Show.

Offered with three engines, the base V6 powerplant makes 335 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque but the mid range V6S model makes 375 hp and 339 lb-ft, running from 0-60 in 4.8 seconds. Opting to go all the way, customers can also choose the V8S model which makes a harrowing 488 hp and 460 lb-ft for a 4.3-second 0-60 sprint. Engine start/stop technology is also standard across the range.

Pricing starts at $69,000 and goes all the way up to more than $100,000 for the V8S version.

Based on a shortened version of the automaker’s XK platform, the F-Type is also built from an aluminum chassis leaving it with a 1597 lb weight with the base model and 1,665 lbs in the top-spec V8S. That’s just the chassis, however, an actual curb weight specs have yet to be released.

Regardless of engine options, the car will come with a standard eight-speed automatic transmission that can be controlled by paddle shifters on the steering wheel if the driver desires. It sounds like there won’t be a stick coming after all, but Jag promises that shift times will be cut in half by reducing fuel during those shifts.

As important as performance is, it probably doesn’t mean much to Jaguar buyers without two more key ingredients: style and presence. Thankfully, the car offers both in spades. With a low stance like a jungle cat ready to pounce, it’s hard not to feel impressed with Jag’s design department.

Similarly, the car’s exhaust note is hair-raising to the point where some have called it obnoxious. Still, it’s hard not to respect a car that literally sounds like a snarling beast thanks to active valves in either S models.

But don’t let the angry noises it makes hide the car’s premium interior. Loaded with soft-touch material along the dash, the cockpit carries a premium-yet-simple look that doesn’t pollute its sports car appearance.

Expect the car to go on sale Stateside in May of next year with a starting price of $69,000.

Get the Flash Player to see this player.