LA show: Jaguar's big cat blasts in

JAGUAR has launched its sleek new F-Type Coupe, describing it as the most dynamically capable, performance-focused production Jaguar ever.

Powered by a 405kW 5.0-litre supercharged V8 in its flagship F-Type R variant, the spiritual successor to the famed Jaguar E-Type blasted into sight in dramatic fashion in Los Angeles today when it was driven at full throttle under a grandstand packed with hundreds of journalists and celebrities at Raleigh Studios.

The car will go on show at both the Tokyo and LA motor shows today ahead of a 2014 roll-out around the world, including Australia where it will enter showrooms in about the third quarter – one year after the convertible.

The most powerful of the three F-Type Coupe models, the R, can hit 100km/h in just 4.2 seconds – 0.1 seconds faster than the F-Type V8 S Convertible – making it the fastest Big Cat in the range. Its top speed is limited to 300km/h.

Instead of a 364kW supercharged V8 like the convertible S, the new coupe gets the Jaguar XKR-S's more powerful 405kW unit that also pumps out 680Nm of torque – 57Nm more than the topless F-Type.

The F-Type Coupe will also be offered with with a choice of two more affordable supercharged 3.0-litre V6 engines, in 280kW and 250kW guises, in the F-Type Coupe and F-Type Coupe S.

All powertrains will be linked to the ubiquitous ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.

The addition of a roof has given the F-Type greater structural rigidity, with Jaguar claiming the aluminium coupe is the stiffest Jaguar ever built.

Jaguar Land Rover group marketing director Phil Popham said the new coupe provided its driver with a unique sportscar 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 Coupe,” he said.

Jaguar says a second-generation electronic active differential and torque vectoring system that can brake an inside wheel when powering through a corner deliver enhanced agility and “exploitable handing at the limit”.

The entire side panel of the coupe is stamped from one piece of aluminium, while the roof can be made of aluminium or – if the owner chooses – panoramic glass. Both roof surfaces are bonded into the structure with identical rigidity properties.

F-Type R and F-Type S Coupes both can be fitted with optional carbon ceramic matrix brake discs.