Paris Auto Show: Jaguar unveils F-Type convertible

Cue the cat references.

Jaguar used the 2012 Paris Motor Show to unveil its long-awaited F-Type convertible. So named to evoke memories of the car’s spiritual predecessor, the eternally gorgeous E-Type, this new two-seat Jag will take aim at the likes of Porsche’s Boxster/Cayman and possibly the 911.

Though the F-Type’s announcement was expected, the fact that Jag came right out of the gate with three different engine options was a bit of a surprise.

The base F-Type starts things off with a 3.0-liter supercharged V-6 kicking out 340 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque and moving from 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds. The mid-level F-Type S also features a 3.0-liter supercharged six, though output now rises to 380 horsepower, torque to 339 pound-feet while the 0-60 mph time drops to 4.8 seconds. At the top of the litter is the F-Type V8 S. You don’t need me to tell you it has a V-8, though I will share facts like its 5.0-liter displacement, the 495 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque and a 0-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds.

Jaguar says all models will route their respective power to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission featuring steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Nope, no manual can be had right now. Yep, I think it’s a travesty, too, but a DIY gearbox may be in the cards in the future.

Making amends for this oversight is this kitty’s looks. The front of this aluminum-bodied car bears some resemblance to Jag’s larger XK coupe and roadster, with a catfish-like grille and bumper treatment.

The rear of the car is its most breathtaking angle, with the rear fenders arching seductively over the rear wheels and thin taillamps wrapping around from the side. V-6 models will have a pair of center-mounted exhaust pipes, while the V-8’s have a pair of dual-exhaust pipes in the traditional position. Meeeowww. (Sorry, it’s too easy.)

Keeping this Jag’s style clear are small features like hidden door handles and a retractable rear spoiler. Jaguar claims the convertible top will fold in 12 seconds at speeds of up to 30 mph. Curb weight for V-6 models should be around 3,500 pounds.

Look for an on-sale date in mid 2013 for this convertible, with pricing starting around $69,000. If a hideaway roof isn’t to your liking, know that a coupe variant will bow a bit later.