Jaguar F-Type Convertible review

Although it may have a stable full of sensible saloons and SUVs these days, the Jaguar F-Type Convertible proves that its maker hasn’t forgotten its heritage. Harking back to sports cars such as the achingly beautiful E-Type of the 1960s – which itself was available as a solid-roofed coupé or a drop-top roadster – it’s a strict two-seater that places its emphasis on performance, style and sound.

With the roof down in the F-Type Convertible your ears are that much more exposed to the thunderously brutish exhaust note emitted from the supercharged 5.0-litre V8 versions of this car, delivering drop-top thrills that very few cars can hope to challenge. It’s not all about V8s though, there’s a four-cylinder 2.0-litre version of the F-Type convertible, and this has proven the most popular of the two engines offered.

With such diversity of engine choices, F-Type Convertible prices start at the cost of a highly-specced Porsche 718 Boxster, while the range-topping F-Type Convertible R with a few options is the same money as the Audi R8 Spyder. Tough – and varied – competition indeed.

And while some rivals boast a couple of rear seats, the F-Type Convertible remains a strict two-seater – you’ll need a BMW 8 Series Convertible or Porsche 911 Cabriolet to match the F-Type’s performance while carrying more than one passenger.

So does the F-Type Convertible set new standards for roof-down exhilaration? Read on and we’ll tell you exactly how it drives, what it’s like for passengers and how much it’ll cost you to run. We’ll also explain which engines are our favourite, and why. 

Already imagining a F-Type Convertible on your drive? The next step is to visit our New Car Buying pages to find out just how much you could save, without any tedious haggling.