2018 Jaguar F-Type caught with small engine

First Porsche announced that the 2017 718 models would pack a four-cylinder motor, then Jeep threw it out there that the Wrangler would slim down to four as well and just when we thought it couldn’t get any crazier, Jaguar’s elegantly yet feisty sports car is following suit.

That’s right, 2018 Jaguar F-Type models will presumably come with three engine flavours that’s if Jaguar decides whether or not to axe the V8 or the V6 or both, but that’s all unconfirmed. Spotted recently decked out in full camouflage somewhere in the UK, someone wanted to cross-reference the licence plate (not sure why), but that’s how the world has come to know that an inline-four was underneath the bonnet.

Jaguar has a four-cylinder motor in its lineup that powers nearly every other Jag except for the F-Pace (give it time). Pumping out around 237 horsepower and 340 Nm of torque. Paired to an eight-speed automatic gearbox it’s no slacker, however, dropped in the engine bay of the F-Type it seems underwhelming.

How so, you may ask? With its new four-piece setup it can take on the 2017 Porsche Cayman or 718 models as they too sport a four-cylinder motor that produces 300 horsepower. See the problem now? With that in mind, we can only presume that Jaguar will make some slight alterations to pump out a similar output.

Power is most likely to be sent to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox as standard in the GCC at least. Elsewhere, a six-speed manual is standard. All Wheel Drive drive could be on the menu too.

It wasn’t just the engine that’s supposedly new, the test mule that the engine was caught powering did have individual differences. No retractable spoiler or side skirts, single exhaust tip and smaller cutaways in the bonnet, aside from that it will sport some unique markings. Inside, it’s unknown whether or not the interior will follow in line with the V8’s and V6’s. Saying that, Jaguar’s new infotainment system will adorn the dashboard.