2021 Jaguar F-TYPE Trim Levels with Comparisons & Configurations.

The 2021 Jaguar F-TYPE - which is available as either a coupe or convertible - is nothing short of stellar. It embodies everything we have come to expect from Jag as a luxury brand. This model year brings about a much-needed refresh too, crafting a more flowing front end and redesigned LED headlights and taillights. There is also a larger, more assertive-looking front grille. Since the F-TYPE was introduced for the 2014, there had not been any serious changes... until now. And the changes are not just to the exterior.

Jaguar has trimmed the power options down a lot, all in favor of more power. The old P340, P380 RWD, and higher SVR equipped models have all been discontinued. This is all for the better since the new R trim level now matches the old SVR's 575 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. The R also receives re-calibration to its suspension, power steering software, and stability control. There are also new anti-roll bars and springs. That drops the F-TYPE's 0-60 time to just 3.5 seconds, according to Jaguar. Honestly, the V8 engine you can get is just a ton of fun, and standard all-wheel drive is a nice touch. Downright impressive, right?

Well, that isn't all. You get all sorts of cool new features, such as the quiet start mode, which keeps the powertrain muted so that you won't wake up the neighbors at night. The TFT-screen gauge cluster has been redesigned, containing sportier features (like the shift light display) and specialized graphics. Oh, and the styling revamps are chic and contemporary.

What are the downsides to owning a F-TYPE? There are not many, but a few do exist. There is not a lot of passenger or cargo space. You will just want to plan on taking day trips alone or with one other companion. No one else will fit. Also, the ride quality can feel a bit stuttering for some folks. The infotainment system is also known for being glitchy, which can be annoying at best and distracting at worst. Also, the V6 engine is not any faster than the 4-cylinder, so you might as well just skip over it.

So, what exactly can you get on each individual trim level? Your experience is going to depend on which trim you get. Hence the importance of reading through the entirety of this trim level comparison review. We will cover the specs and features on the base F-TYPE, First Edition, R-Dynamic, and R. In the end, we will tell you which one we think we appeal the most to a Jag buyer.

Compare the 2021 Jaguar F-TYPE vs First Edition. What is the Difference?

The base 2021 Jaguar F-TYPE is nothing to scoff at. For a base trim, it packs a lot of standard features in. Its powertrain gets the F-TYPE 296 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. It has a top speed of 155 mph and can get from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The 2.0-L engine is paired up with a standard 8-speed automatic transmission and has rear-wheel drive (RWD). The powertrain comes with a block heater, transmission oil cooler, engine oil cooler, Quick Shift sequential sport shift, a chrome tailpipe, electronic control of the transmission, and battery rundown protection.

There is a four-wheel independent suspension equipped on the base F-TYPE. As already mentioned, the anti-roll bars and springs have been revamped for the model year and provide more stability for the vehicle. There is rack and pinion steering, gas-pressurized front shocks, and standard 18-inch wheels. You can opt for different 19- or 20-inch wheels though. There are 19-inch machine painted aluminum wheels or 20-inch machine painted aluminum wheels if the 18-inch silver alloys don't float your boat.

The exterior of the base trim is adorned with a black rub strip on the front bumper, an optional black grille, a power rear spoiler, a black insert for the rear bumper, and auto-dimming side mirrors. There is a liftgate rear door to the cargo area, and the Coupe and Convertible only have two doors for people to get in and out. The standard grille is black with a chrome surround. Turn indicators are integrated into the side mirrors, which are also heated and power-adjustable. You can opt for metallic paint is you want.

Inside, you will find that the base F-TYPE is packed with standard creature comforts. Convenience features include the Jaguar Smart Key System for entry to the vehicle, a door release and key fob for the liftgate, power windows, 1-touch auto-up/down on the windows, memory settings for the seats, and built-in navigation. Both the driver and passenger seats get memory settings for the seats themselves, the steering wheel, and the side mirrors on the doors. The steering column is power tilting and telescoping, and the doors are automatically locking. A day/night rear-view mirror comes standard.

There are 2 USB ports up front, and each front seat occupant has a vanity mirror. Automatic climate control heats and cools the cabin with ease, creating a quick sense of comfort during very hot or cold days. There is a mini overhead console, front cup holders, and the option of adding a manually adjustable sunshade. The Home Link universal transceiver comes standard, as does the In Control Protect emergency communication system. The glove box can be locked, and there are 2 12-volt DC power outlets equipped.

Other interior features include an optional heated steering wheel, optional dual-zone automatic climate control, a standard valet function, standard cruise control with controls mounted onto the steering wheel, illuminated entry, and a footrest for the driver.

When it comes to seating, you will find plenty of comfort. There is a center armrest up front, a leather gear shift knob and steering wheel, 8-way adjustable seats for both the driver and passenger, optional heating for the seat backs, a carpeted cargo area, and standard suede cloth simulated suede/leather front upholstery. Sport pedals, a leather-trimmed dash board, a tire mobility kit, carpeted front floor mats, and leatherette door panel trim come equipped. You can opt for piano black interior accents, a full suede cloth headliner, Windsor suede/leather upholstery, ventilation on the front seats, an aluminum panel insert strip, a full leather headliner, and a carbon fiber instrument panel insert.

Infotainment features are also pretty expansive on the base F-TYPE. You get standard smartphone app integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, HD Radio, AM/FM/MP3 capabilities, a 10-speaker Meridian sound system, and 2 first-row LCD monitors. There is a Meridian Trifield digital signal processor and a diversity antenna.

As far as lighting and safety features go, you can enjoy having a standard tachometer, ignition switch light, tire pressure sensors, a battery warning, a lights-on warning, a trunk ajar warning, a front and rear reverse sensing system, a fading dome light, front reading lights, delay-off projector beam Bi-Xenon low and high beam headlights, cornering lights, a bulb failure light, light-tinted windows, a rear-view camera, and automatic high beam assist. Blind spot monitoring is optional, as are automated parking sensors and a heated front windshield.

So, what does the First Edition add? The 2.0-L 4-cylinder engine remains the same, so there aren't too many mechanical differences here. You will notice a few differences on the outside, such as the rocker panel extensions, but basically everything remains the same. You still have to opt up for a power liftgate.

Many of the standard features inside remain the same. You can opt for a glass sunroof and automatic latching for the trunk. A heated steering wheel is still optional as well. Leather upholstery does come standard, which is a nice upgrade. You also get leatherette door panel trims, metallic interior accents, a full suede cloth simulated headliner, sport front bucket seats, and a leather/aluminum steering wheel. You still have to opt for heated front seats.

Entertainment-wise, you get many of the same features as well. Ther eis an option for a premium 12-speaker sound system if the 10-speaker Meridian doesn't suit your musical needs. Wireless connectivity comes equipped, as does a concealed antenna, and In Control internet access. Also, with regard to safety, you still get features like rear collision warning but have to opt for blind spot monitoring.

Compare the 2021 Jaguar F-TYPE First Edition vs R-Dynamic Trims. What is the Difference?

The R-Dynamic signifies a step up in the trim level ladder, as indicated by the large price tag jump. The biggest change? The mechanics. All-wheel drive now comes standard, as does a 3.0-L V6 engine paired with the 8-speed automatic transmission. This is a turbo and supercharged engine that generates 380 hp. There is a dual stainless steel exhaust and chrome tailpipe, adaptive suspension, and 20-inch wheels that come equipped.

The exterior gets upgraded to body-colored front and rear bumpers with a black rub strip, body-colored door handles, and a pair of auto-dimming heated power-folding side mirrors with integrated turn indicators. The automatic air conditioning system comes with an air filtration system, and the cargo space's floor is carpeted. Sport pedals get tacked on, as does a full Morzine cloth headliner. 4-way power lumbar support gets equipped on both seats for extra comfort.

Compare the 2021 Jaguar F-TYPE R-Dynamic vs R Trims. What is the difference?

The top of the line is reserved for the R trim level. This trim is powered by the 5.0-L V8 engine, which runs on premium fuel. It generates a massive 575 hp and comes with standard all-wheel drive. 20-inch wheels come standard, as does speed sensitive steering. The brakes also receive an upgrade, and there is chic gloss black exterior trim. Leather sport seats, leather-wrapped panels, and a heated steering wheel come equipped.

Which Trim to Choose?

There is really a lot to love - and a few things to dislike - about the 2021 Jaguar F-TYPE. Each trim level builds on the one beneath it, but we happen to think that most people who want this Jag will want to skip right to the top of the line and go for the R. And they are well within reason to do so.

Now that the old SVR's engine is equipped on it, you get a great performance for less than what the SVR would have cost. The 4-cylinder and V6 are considerably mediocre for a vehicle in this segment. Here, when you spend more, you get a lot more. The amount of power that the R puts forth feels exciting. The exhaust and engine can be a bit harsh, but in a good way since they sound powerful. Getting all-wheel-drive equipped is a huge plus, too. While this vehicle is definitely not meant for off-roading, all-wheel-drive will keep the R safe on slick road surfaces.

Go ahead and splurge. A Jag like the F-TYPE R trim level is worth it.