SimplyAbuDhabi XV

2 2 1 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I the switchgear in earlier models by completely replacing everything with materials of a much higher standard and a sharper design. The less than loveable gear selector dial has gone, replaced by a joystick- size, trigger-fired shifter that is far more satisfying both to hold and to use – particularly if you have a yearning to fly a jet-fighter plane. Around it, the rest of the cabin follows that trend, leaning towards a more athletic brand of sporting luxury than you may have found in other modern Jaguars. The steering wheel rimhas shrunk in diameter while substantially increasing in girth and adding an optional flat bottom for that race car feel. The two-tone dials are determinedly old- school analogue and noticeably bolder, while the button to access Jaguar’s familiar Dynamic Mode is now a slider switch that must be armed like the missile launcher from that jet fighter. That and the gearshift paddles and engine start button are also highlighted in a metallic orange finish, adding even more dynamism to an already exciting cockpit. As befitting the nature of a true sportscar, most driving functions are accessed via a centre console that’s designed to be solely the preserve of the driver. The passenger’s side is clearly demarcated by a substantial grab handle and subtly different trim finishes. There’s no mistaking that this is a cabin meant for the driver and for driving. In short, if you’re in the passenger seat, keep your hands off the controls and sit back while the driver takes care of business. When it comes to the driving experience, the F-type is as fast as a Jaguar should be and handles like one should. That is to say it isn’t intended to replicate a Porsche or Lotus, for example. It is built to follow Jaguar’s unique sporting philosophy, which states, “Above all else, we make road cars – not over-sprung, over-specified monuments to track-intended purposes rarely (if ever) served. These cars must be