Jaguar’s latest entry in the U.S. market is the 2022 F-Type P450, a two-seat coupe sports car designed to thrill.

The model will be offered in both coupe and convertible configurations, rear and all-wheel drive. All share more standard luxury and convenience features than before. My tester had a roof, and was rear wheel drive with a coat of authentic “British Racing Green” metallic paint.

To say Jaguar is a global effort, is almost an understatement. Owned by Tata Motors in India, Jaguars are manufactured in three different UK plants, Austria, China and India.

Powered by a 5.0-liter, supercharged V8 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, F-Type was born to run. The engine, developed to offer exploitable, rewarding performance, delivers 444 horsepower and maximum torque of 428 lb-ft at just 2,500 rpm.

The V8 moves from 0-to-60 miles per hour in 4.4 seconds with a top speed of 177 miles per hour.

This driver’s car benefits from a standard electronic active differential that optimizes traction. Combined with a low center of gravity, upgraded, colored brake calipers, and selectable driving modes, the F-Type speeds through turns and corners a high speed and in full control.

Quiet Start is a standard feature and ensures a more subtle, refined sound upon startup. The electrically actuated bypass valves in the rear silencer remain closed until they automatically open up under load, releasing the signature roar fundamental to the F-TYPE driving experience.

In case the sleek exterior lines, 20-inch spoke gloss gray wheels, clamshell hood or rear spoiler don’t catch a passerby’s attention, the sound will. F-Type demands and earns attention.

Two adults form fit into a comfortable cabin with limited storage space and a long, but not deep, trunk large enough to accommodate overnight bags but not a lot more. The F-Type P450 had a range around 250 miles and managed 19 miles per gallon in combination city/highway driving.

The interior combines traditional Jaguar craftsmanship with rich, contemporary materials such as Windsor leather and satin-finish Noble chrome. Beautiful details include monogram stitch patterns in the seats and door trims, Jaguar Leaper motifs in the headrests, and subtle “Jaguar Est.1935” markings on the center console finisher, glovebox release button surround, and seatbelt guide.

On what borders as showing off, Jaguar also adds illuminated metal treadplates with Jaguar script, full extended leather upgrade, and premium cabin lighting as optional equipment ($3,800).

Other highlights include a panoramic roof, 12-way heated and cooled front seats, Meridian premium sound system with 380 watts power, navigation with a 10-inch screen, XM satellite radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, USB port, and interactive driver display.

F-Type includes all the needed safety equipment, but doesn’t overdo it. It lets the driver drive. Standard equipment includes dynamic stability control, emergency braking, cruise control, rear camera, lane keep assist and traffic sign recognition.

As Jaguar’s entry-level model in the U.S., it comes with a 5-year / 60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty, 5-year / 60,000-mile complimentary scheduled maintenance, and 5-year / 60,000-mile, 24/7 roadside assistance.

Base Price: $71,050

Price As Driven: $86,200

Destination charge is included in base price. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.