New for 2017

The SVR is an all-new, higher-performance variant of the existing F-TYPE, built by Jaguar Land Rover’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division.

An F-TYPE on Steroids

The Jaguar F-TYPE is a pretty great car. It looks amazing, it’s a blast to drive, and it channels the spirit of the legendary Jaguar E-Type. So how do you improve on that?

When Jaguar Land Rover launched its Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division, the intent was to create enhanced versions of the company’s existing products. Now, SVO is turning its attention to the F-TYPE. Unveiled at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show, the 2017 Jaguar F-Type SVR is an F-TYPE on steroids. It’s faster, more powerful, and even better looking than before. If you want the ultimate British sports car, look no further.

Powertrains and Performance

The SVR use an enhanced version of the already-capable powertrain from the F-TYPE R. A 5.0-liter supercharged V8 is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with all-wheel drive. But while the V8 in the F-TYPE R produces 550 horsepower and 502 pound-feet of torque, the SVR version makes 575 hp and 516 lb-ft. The extra power comes from changes to engine calibration, and a new Inconel-titanium exhaust system. EPA fuel-economy ratings will be published closer to the SVR’s launch.

Jaguar says the SVR will do 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds, which is 0.4 second quicker than the F-TYPE R. The headline, though, is the SVR’s supercar-rivaling 200 mph top speed. That only applies to the coupe, though, as the convertible is limited to “only” 195 mph.

That performance is made possible not only by the more powerful engine, but also by some weight savings. With no optional equipment, Jaguar claims the F-TYPE SVR weighs 55 pounds less than an F-TYPE R, but weight can be cut by up to 110 pounds with some add-ons, including Carbon Ceramic Matrix brakes and a carbon fiber roof.

Because upgrading the engine and leaving the rest of the car untouched would leave things a bit unbalanced, Jaguar also reinforced the transmission and all-wheel drive system. The Jaguar Adaptive Dynamics suspension system also gets major software and some hardware changes, and the body itself is extensively reshaped for better aerodynamics.

Features and Trims

The 2017 Jaguar F-TYPE SVR will be available as a two-seat coupe or convertible. Pricing will start at $125,950* when it goes on sale this summer.

The SVR is a more hardcore sports car, but it’s still a Jaguar. Standard equipment is largely similar to the F-TYPE R, with features like a Meridian surround-sound system, touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, HD Radio, leather upholstery, anodized aluminum shift paddles, and the Jaguar InControl Apps app suite. SVR models also get special 14-way power sport seats.

Optional features include Carbon Ceramic Matrix brakes, an Extended Leather Package that adds more cowhide, heated windshield, and an Exterior Carbon Fiber Package with a carbon roof and other pieces.

Design

Take one look at the F-TYPE SVR, and it’s clear this this is a different animal from other F-TYPE iterations. It’s easy for car companies to puff up performance versions of existing cars with bulging fenders and big spoilers, but Jaguar took a more serious approach here. Every change the designers made is functional, either helping cooling or increasing downforce.

Starting at the front, the bumper was extended to cover more of the wheels, and a new front fascia was designed to both increase downforce and make room for huge intakes that cool the engine. On the other side of the front wheel wells, the vents act as part of an “air curtain” that helps pull air around the wheels and keep the flow “attached” to the sides of the car, which is better for aerodynamics.

At the back, a new rear fascia accommodates an under-floor tray and rear venturi. Jaguar actually had to redesign the exhaust layout to add individual mufflers, because the stock arrangement of a larger single muffler wouldn’t fit with the venturi. There’s also a larger rear spoiler that is still adjustable, like the ones on other F-TPEmodels. As a default, the spoiler raises at 60 mph in the convertible and 70 mph in the coupe, but it can be raised and lowered by the driver at will.

The interior is a great place to be. The F-TYPE has a signature “one-plus-one” layout that prioritizes the driver, and includes a grab handle for squeamish passengers. The SVR gets larger anodized aluminum paddle shifters, as well as model-specific sport seats with extra bolstering. Overall, the cockpit is luxurious, but is set up to keep the driver focused on the task at hand.

Safety

Standard safety equipment on the 2017 Jaguar F-TYPE SVR includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, and a full array of airbags.

Bottom Line

The 2017 Jaguar F-TYPE SVR is one ferocious cat.

Be among the first to experience the F-TYPE SVR by contacting us online or visiting 3Birds Template at 505 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516. 

*Prices listed are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options chosen by you. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs, or other dealer charges.

Image: Jaguar