It must be hard to make a car that genuinely evokes excitement these days, or so it seems. Just about every automaker is coming out with electrified blobs painted in grey or silver, while everyone freaks out about a lack of charging infrastructure. As such, it’s truly refreshing to jump behind the wheel of an “old-fashioned” V8 roadster. This is the 2022 Jaguar F-Type P450 R-Dynamic, and my oh my, this little beauty has aged extremely well.
It’s hard to believe that the F-Type has been around for nearly a decade, because its styling has held up beautifully. Its stunning lines and overall proportions are all just right, and it all ties together nicely with updated wheel designs and LED lighting. Jaguar gave it a nip/tuck in 2020, but the basics have gone on unchanged. We heard a few times during our test that the new fascia somewhat resembles a Mustang, and while this latest F-Type is gorgeous today, the pre-facelift model will likely age better. If you don’t want this open-top variant, the coupé is a fine way to spec your F-Type.
Over the years, the F-Type has seen a number of powertrains. While supercharged V6 models were the most popular, a number of trim levels were available with the supercharged V8, and also a turbocharged inline four-cylinder for a short stint. A manual transmission came and went, and while enthusiasts will always pine for the availability of a stick in just about anything, the F-Type’s three-pedal setup was just not well executed. The eight-speed automatic that has been consistently available is the way to go, and is perfectly suited to all models of this Jag.
That said, the 2022 model is only available with two variants of the 5.0-liter supercharged V8. The P450 model tested here is the de-tuned version, offering “just” 444 horsepower and 428 lb-ft. of torque, and hooked up to the eight-speed automatic. This one is rear-drive, though the P450 is available with all-wheel-drive for an extra $10,000. Jaguar claims a 0-100km/h sprint time of just 4.6 seconds, which is pretty quick for the droptop kitty, and as expected, this comes with a truly theatrical soundtrack.
You see, where the F-Type excels doesn’t really have anything to do with the numbers. Sure it offers a roaring V8, two seats and every quality we expect from a British roadster, but where it really comes together is the emotional aspect of a frivolous purchase. The svelte lines and low-slung looks are true beauty in a sea of beige Toyota RAV4s, and the sheer noise out of the performance exhaust sends tingles down my spine. It didn’t help that our test week was also the first warm week after months of dreary winter, but there’s something about the experience behind the wheel of a car this traditional that really wakes you up.
The F-Type has decently weighted steering, though still electrically assisted, and it responds eagerly. It turns in sharply, and thanks to the rear-drive layout, give the throttle a poke and the rear end eagerly kicks out. You can, of course, get all-wheel-drive for more money, but I really can’t see why you would. If you really insist on driving your F-Type year-round, just opt for a good set of winter tires and you’ll be golden. Ride quality is fairly good, meaning the F-Type Convertible is a decent highway cruiser for both short and long hauls, provided you fit in it.
Inside the F-Type, materials are scrumptious. Being a roadster, space is rather tight, but my six-foot frame fit with no issues. Keep in mind there isn’t all that much room for daily carry items within the cabin. Our tester’s interior was finished in black leather and thankfully, had minimal use of piano black plastic. The 10-inch touchscreen has Apple CarPlay, though does require a wired connection. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is crystal clear and offers all of the pertinent information and a fair bit of customizability.
F-Type Convertibles start at $90,300 for the rear-drive P450 model, and the options only go up from there. All-wheel-drive examples sticker for $100,500, and the 575-horsepower engine stickers at $124,000. Our tester was a rear-drive ragtop jammed to the nines, coming in just under $110,000. Curiously, while numerous expensive options were checked off, most notable was the lack of proximity entry. On a vehicle worth six figures, we wouldn’t expect to have to pull the key fob out and push a button to unlock the doors. This is a $650 add-on that’s standard on just about every mainstream car on the market.
At its price point, the 2022 Jaguar F-Type P450 R-Dynamic has plenty of competition. The most obvious is the Porsche 718 Boxster, which is definitely the more engaging driver’s car. The allure to the Jag is its emotional appeal – the looks, the sound, and the overall experience of this car makes every drive a special event. If what you’re looking for is a spectacular cruiser that will keep a grin on your face every time you’re driving it, and makes you turn around to look back after parking, the F-Type is the ticket.
