By Vaughn Lowery × Anthony Sovinsky
For 2018, Jaguar is introducing a genetically enhanced version of its already popular F-Type series – the 400 Sport Coupe Special Edition. At first glimpse, the vehicle immediately appears to be a part of the family, yet subtle differences cause it to break away from the battalion.
Although the F-Type didn’t call for a redesign, they redefined excellence with a one-year-only configuration. This limited version exhibits tons of sporty appointments which hint nifty performance gains to be anticipated as well. The 400 Sport is featured in three different metallic colors: Yulong White, Indus Silver and Santorini Black. It arrives in two different drive trains – AWD and RWD. Lastly, one can select between a convertible or coupe.
As of late, we had the joy of testing out the Indus Silver two-door AWD (allowing it to grip and corner with ease). While approaching the vehicle head-on, you are at once enthralled by its bespoke elements – stealthy accents on the grille fitted with an audacious front splitter adorning “400 Sport” in bold yellow.
While orbiting the vehicle, we gained an admiration of its contoured yet nimble stance. Some of the new additions included blade-like extended side sills and prominent front/rear splitters which shout, “I am fast as I am athletic.” It squats on 20″ Dark Satin alloy wheels that come to a stop with Super Performance 380mm front and 376mm rear brakes (currently, an upgrade featured in the 400 Sport). With a wheelbase of 103.2,” ground clearance of only 4.1″ and a length of 176.5,” you can be reassureed that this vehicle was built to track (very little drag coefficient w/ automatic retractable spoiler).
The F-Type 400 Sport possesses the most agile V6 offered in the series, until now still doesn’t measure up to the R (V8 550hp) and SVR (V8 575hp)’s performance. It’s the difference between a Ferris wheel and a roller coaster (less scream factor). Nevertheless, this 3.0L V6 400PS supercharged engine delivers 400hp with 339lb-ft of torque alongside of an 8-speed gearbox. It’s 20hp faster than its forerunners. Most of it is felt in the top end which makes it worth acquiring. This increase in power also enhances the already invigorating exhaust that’s expelled through the trumpet-like tips. Letting off the gas at high RPMs (5000+) will make the car backfire – crackling and popping like a 4th of July fireworks show. Don’t fret, though. As prevalent in former models, Jaguar wanted to make certain you don’t upset the neighbors by adding an option to tame it with the press of a button.
Inside the cabin, your eyes are drawn yet again to the vibrant yellow emblems, “400 Sport” tastefully planted: the steering wheel; console finisher; embroidered headrests and tread plates, reminding you of the anomaly of which you have. In addition, slimmer premium leather performance seats improve dash to backrest space, creating a racier ambiance. For the foremost time, there’s a flat-bottomed sport steering wheel accompanied by anodized aluminum paddle shifters ergonomically placed for aggressive driving. Next, you’ll discover the beautifully black-coated aluminum center dash baring a touch screen infotainment system which allows you to navigate, choose your favorite station and/or Bluetooth to your smart devices.
The 2018 Jaguar F-type 400 Sport Coupe Special Edition is definitely something special. Aside from all the jaw-dropping signature patches, it offers exclusivity to the owner because of its minimal production, unique performance and cosmetic upgrades. This makes it a well-balanced vehicle of choice for those seeking something snazzy without the hefty price tag.
In short, we forecast this to become the affluent millennials’ two-seater select for 2018.
