"You wouldn't have that problem with a V8," said American actor Lucas Black to his female co-star in Tokyo Drift as he mocked her 1.3-litre Mazda RX-8.

Sure, a beastly V8 in a little coupe would solve all power-to-weight ratio problems in a drag race and that's exactly what Jaguar put into its F-TYPE when it launched four years ago.

While the V8-powered F-TYPE, with 488bhp and 625Nm of torque, was as fast as lightning and as loud as thunder, it wasn't exactly something the average driver could drive his heart out in.

If he did, he'd probably be spending more time taming the beast than actually enjoying the spirited drive itself. At the same time, he'd also probably be slapped with a noise complaint or two on his way home.

The more rational and also more affordable option back then was one with a lighter-nosed V6, which we preferred. Granted, you'd have to give up the visceral bark of the V8 if you opted for that.

However, because the V8 is no longer available in Singapore, the V6 models are now the range-toppers and in their place is a new entry-level offering - a 2.0-litre four-cylinder. Yes, downsizing has grasped another sports car and this decision follows those such as Mercedes' and Porsche's.


This ting doesn't quite go skrrrahh, pap, pap, ka-ka-ka but you can manhandle the hell out of it

Whilst such an engine option would initially seem as fitting in an F-TYPE as an Ikea coffee table in an oceanfront property in Sentosa Cove, the outcome isn't bad at all. For those who have always wanted an F-TYPE but aren't inclined $400,000 for one, this in fact, comes as great news.

For starters, the F-TYPE 2.0 costs $345,999 (as of 5^th January 2018) and is no slouch. Aided by a turbocharger that helps its four cylinders churn a rather impressive 296bhp and 400Nm to the rear wheels, it'll smash the century sprint in 5.7 seconds.

As an everyday sports car, it's more than enough to put a smile on the face. Push on through the revs and there's plentiful muscle in the mid-range.