Jaguar Working On 600 HP RS Version Of F-Type Convertible

Spy shots have revealed what appears to be an extreme high-performance 'RS' variant of the Jaguar F-type convertible being tested on track.

Jaguar marketing director Phil Popham admitted at last week’s New York show that extreme high performance cars would help re-establish the company as a ‘performance’ brand.

It's likely that the supercharged 5.0-litre V8, found in the F-type R, will be fitted. In standard form the engine produces 542bhp and 502lb ft but the RS is expected to receive something of a power hike, resulting in an output close to 600bhp. Power will again be sent to the rear wheels by an eight-speed automatic transmission.
 

Terry989 - 4/22/2014 6:43:15 PM

+1 Boost

Jaguar is really milking the X-Type. Will the market support four different engines and 8 different X-Type models? I expect a decreasing incremental payback. But then again, with declining sales for all other Models, they may be the trick pony they need. The X-Type looks sharp, drives well and sounds incredible - - - but the market for a two seat sports car will be a limiting factor.

skytop - 4/22/2014 7:19:41 PM

+1 Boost

Jaguar used to be a high quality automobile that sold on its excellent reputation and prestige. Now, Jag has apparently lost its direction. Does it really need a 600 HP F Type car? Does it apparently think that drag racers are it target audience? Does it see a plastic Z0-6 Vette as its competition? I really feel disappointed that Jag management appears to have lost its way.

Tritonx - 4/28/2014 2:55:59 AM

+1 Boost

The Jag e-type, which is considered to be one of those iconic Jags that imparts "excellent reputation and prestige", was the fastest production car tested in in 1965. Hopefully the RS will come with great driving dynamics too, but having a halo car that's the fastest in 2015 is in line with what Jag was able to achieve 50 years ago.