I'm thinking about purchasing a new manual transmission F-Type. I was reading some today and came across this article.
2016 Jaguar F-Type: Electric Power Steering Is Better, Says Chief Engineer
The hydraulic power steering assist has been replaced by electronic power steering assist. I really don't know the ins and outs of how they work, but I can tell you that the electronic power steering assist on my BMW 435i makes the steering feel very numb. The steering in my S2000 and WRX (sold) feel much more connected to the road if that makes sense.


So, my question here (especially for those who have driven both) is about the difference in feel. Has Jaguar pulled the change off successfully? Can you tell a difference in feel?

 

Having driven the 15' coupe previously and testing electric power steering vehicles on a daily basis, I expected to have many complaints about the 16' steering setup.


I have no complaints.

 

There have been many reviews by now of the 16 F-Types and all have commented on the electric power steering. Everyone I've seen praises Jaguar's system, and all reviewers have said it's either better or just as good as the hydraulic system in the older cars in terms of steering feedback.

Do a search, and the Autoweek review was just published here today.

 

I've driven the 15 & 16 R, back to back

I honestly could not tell the difference - both felt fantastic

Disclaimer: I only drove in dynamic mode in each

 

Autoweek today gave good review to new steering.

 

Excellent. I appreciate the feedback.

 

Driven both, extensively.

The feel in 'Normal' mode of the EPAS is pretty much on par with the HYD system. The only difference is when you hit full lock, you notice that the revs don;t dip as they used to when the HYD pump 'dead-heads'. The EPAS system is quiet, and has a very slight 'notchy' unmodulated feel at low turn speed - most probably not noticed by most. It's lighter than the HYD system when manoeuvring at low speed, i.e parking as well.

In Dynamic mode the EPAS feels slightly heavier off centre, which usually makes me stick with the Normal mode for long periods behind the wheel.

Haven't really hammered the steering in any form on track....yet!

 

I'm guessing there is a very slight difference that you can feel. But probably not a deal breaker unless you are really, really particular. Industry-wide, seems like the gap between electronic an hydro has narrowed a lot, but not completely gone (in terms of feel). FWIW, I didn't think the electronic steering in my 2013 991 was as good as my hydro 2011 Cayman. But again, not a deal breaker.

 

Evo liked the V6S manual they test this month.

Apparently - while it is "a little short in communication terms", the rack is direct and free of play with a "more natural, predictable rate of response".

They seem to like the gearbox more than on the prototypes too.

 

The 6 speed is much like a school kid these days....gets an an award for just showing up.

 

Drove both on same day. Not a real significant difference. I doubt most people would even notice.



MC

 

Things are looking much better for the 6-speed manual. I'm starting to get the "itch" for one now. I'm guessing I'll be able to pick up a lightly-used one at a huge discount within a year or so, after someone who got bored sells.

 

I drove a '16 F-Type today. The steering felt good, definitely better than my 435i's steering.