The F-TYPE provides the perfect showcase for Jaguar’s next generation of supercharged petrol engines, which combine extremely high specific outputs of both power and torque with great efficiency gains.

Exclusive to the F-TYPE S is a 380PS and 460Nm version of the 3.0-litre V6 supercharged engine that was introduced to the 2013 model year XJ and XF saloons in 340PS and 450Nm form; that 340PS engine also being offered in the F-TYPE. Based on the highly acclaimed 5.0-litre V8 engine, now in its third generation, the V6 shares its all-alloy construction format, with the lightweight die-cast block stiffened with cross-bolted main bearing caps, increasing rigidity and refinement.

The four-valve cylinder heads are constructed from recycled aluminium, with the valves themselves controlled by a dual independent variable cam timing system activated by the positive and negative torques generated by the movement of the intake and exhaust valves. With actuation rates of more than 150 degrees-per-second, the timing system optimises power, torque and economy while giving the V6 a distinctly urgent and responsive character, encouraging the driver to make full use of the entire rev range.

This responsive and uninterrupted power delivery is made possible through the use of spray-guided direct injection. This delivers precisely measured quantities of fuel directly into the centre of the combustion chambers at pressures of up to 150bar, creating a more homogenous air-fuel mixture for cleaner and more efficient combustion.

This is aided by spark plugs which are precisely oriented both in relation to the injector and within the combustion chamber. The compression ratio is also raised from 9.5:1 in the supercharged V8 to 10.5:1, further improving fuel economy and reducing CO₂ emissions.

Mounted in the ‘V’ of the engine is the latest-generation Roots-type twin vortex supercharger, its use key to the 3.0 V6 S/C’s high-specific output and efficiency. The use of supercharging avoids pumping losses caused by increased back pressure in larger capacity turbocharged engines, improving both efficiency and urgency of response. More compact than the supercharger used with the V8, a water intercooler reduces the temperature of the intake air to optimise power and efficiency.

The supercharger boost control is supervised by new Bosch engine management software, optimising efficiency. Underlining the 340PS F-TYPE’s headline performance figures of 0-100kmph in 5.3 seconds and electronically limited 260kmph top speed is mid-range acceleration from 80 to 120 kmph in 3.3 seconds.

In its 380PS state of tune, the 3.0 V6 S/C produces the greatest specific power output of any Jaguar engine to date: 127PS per-litre. In the F-TYPE S that 80-120 kmph sprint is covered off in 3.1 seconds; complementing its 0-100kmph time of 4.9 seconds and electronically limited top speed of 275kmph. The F-TYPE and F-TYPE S achieve CO₂ emissions figures of 209g/km and 213g/km respectively.

The final model in the F-TYPE line-up is the V8 S, which is powered by a new variant of the Jaguar’s supercharged 5.0-litre V8 tuned to provide 495PS and 625Nm of torque in this smaller, lighter and more agile application. This allows it to achieve headline figures of 0-100kmph in 4.3 seconds with an electronically limited top speed of 300kmph, 80kmph to 120kmph taking a mere just 2.5 seconds. CO₂ emissions are 259g/km.

“Our supercharged V6 and V8 engines are perfectly suited to the F-TYPE’s sporting nature, with high-specific outputs and terrific torque delivery. Allied to those engines, the eight-speed ‘Quickshift’ transmission with its closely-spaced ratios is the perfect partner to deliver sports car performance.”

Tim Clark, Technical Specialist for Performance and Driveability Attributes, Jaguar

Be sure to check out more images from the F-TYPE in our full gallery HERE.