Jaguar F-Type AWD Production Models Spied ahead of LA Launch

The pair of F-Type Coupes you see here were spotted while leaving the Jaguar Castle Bromwich factory. These are “Plant Launch Vehicles”, as explained by the small notes inside the car.

In case you’re wondering why the badges at the rear are covered, that’s because the ones on the right probably spell “AWD”.

Since we stated mentioning the little details, you’ve probably noticed that the F-Type’s massive aluminum hood now holds a buldge. It is believed that the hardware for the all-wheel drive system has required this.

Four paws for both V6 and V8 models

Take a closer look at the images and you’ll notice one of the sportscars is an F-Type S Coupe, while the other is an R Coupe - as expected, the all-wheel drive is offered with both the V6 and the V8 models.

There is one aspect of the power chain that is not so clear though and it regards the gearbox options. We know a manual is on its way, but the AWD may remain reserved to the ZF 8-speed automatic models.

The not-a-purists-special F-Type is set to make its debut next month at the Los Angeles Motor Show, while the vehicle should land in US and European showrooms in Spring next year.

F... or the love of all-year long driving

When we first wrote about the Jaguar F-Type getting AWD as an option, many saw the move as a wrong one, insisting on the pure RWD pleasures. We beg to differ: while we enjoy the tail-happy character of the F-Type, this was too eager to slide for its own good at times, so we prefer having the possibility to choose the handling flavor of the sportscar. Besides, we expect nothing else than  rear-biased torque distribution...