After all these years, Jaguar is still bringin’ it.  What am I talking about? I’m talking about the 2015 Jaguar F-type V-6 coupe.  OK, let me back up some and explain about the after all these years part.  What I mean is that Jaguar began producing iconic cars just after WWII:

Starting with the 1949 XK120:

Followed by the XK 140 and pictured here, the XK150:

Not finished yet, the MK2 Saloon (Sedan):

And possibly the most iconic of all, the E-type:

Click on any of those photos to enlarge.  Now for the still bringin’ it part:  the 2015 F-Type V-6 Coupe

Let me say first of all, this is not a first person review.  I have not driven the car, these are my impressions based on this review in Car and Driver.  Having gotten that out of the way, first impressions: This is a very good looking car, if a little Aston-Martin-ish.  However, Aston builds a damn good looking car, so I guess imitation being the sincerest form of flattery, why not start with a winner.  Is it a classic to be?  Hard to say.  In my mind, one thing all the classics have in common is a blend of simple, sturdy elegance.  The elegance is there, but definitely no simplicity or sturdidity.  I think I just made up a word.  What would that be?  Sturdyness?  It doesn’t look sturdy – in fact it looks a little on the fragile side.  And needing maintenance is one thing.  God knows the old Jags needed it, but this looks like it might need more maintenance than any commercial airliner of your choice.  It looks…a little on the complicated side, though I guess that is a sign of the times. Still very nice looking, though.

credit: Car and Driver

A six is under the hood, though not the legendary Jag straight six, the current powerplant is a supercharged 3.0 liter V-6 (other options are the same V-6 sans blower, and a supercharged 4.2 liter V-8).  The blown V-6 puts out 380 HP, sufficient to propel the F-type from 0-60 in less than 5 seconds.  According to the review, hydraulic steering (no steer by wire!  I applaud!), adjustable suspension and 20-inch wheels make for a nimble, comfortable ride.  Comfort is what one expects from a Jag.  Also, some level of luxury and sophistication, which the cabin apparently provides.  No surprise since Jauguar has proven themselves adept at finding cows with very nice skin, peeling them and restitching it into seats and dash.

This to me appears to be somewhat of a poor man’s Aston – well, not a “poor man’s” Aston, but a “well off but not stinkin’ rich” man’s Aston.  Base price for this model is upwards of $78,000.  The review didn’t state price as tested,  but I’m sure if you want air in the tires or any other options, you’re looking at $100K+.  I might also call it a thinking man’s Aston, since for 99% of drivers, even those who fancy themselves hot shoes, this car is going to perform just as well for them in the public environment as an Aston, look just as good as an Aston, and…here’s the thinking part: cost about 1/2 as much as an Aston.  Depending, of course.

Since I stole the photo from Car and Driver, please click over there and read Erik Johnson’s more in-depth and much better written review by way of thanks.  And click on some of their ads and buy some things…so they won’t sue me.

Cross posted at Men Out Of Work Blog