Jaguar F-Pace review

​Jaguar hit the bullseye in 2016 with its first SUV. The F-Pace has good looks and a classy interior, and it proves that you don't need to sacrifice driving excitement when choosing a family-friendly crossover. We liked it so much at launch that we named it our Car of the Year, and it's still a leading choice in the premium crossover class. It's got competition from the Volvo XC60 and BMW X3, but the F-Pace remains one of our favourite all-rounders.

Until 2016, people were used to Jaguar selling saloons and sports cars, but the F-Pace began a new era for Jaguar. The British manufacturer's first SUV still retains the DNA that has made 80 years-worth of sporting models so popular both in the UK and abroad - and healthy global sales have backed this up. 

About the Jaguar F-Pace

The F-Pace is as luxurious and comfortable as a Jag 4x4 should be, while its relatively high running costs are somewhat addressed by mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. Under the skin, the F-Pace shares running gear with the XE and XF models, but the SUV body means it offers greater practicality than its saloon siblings.

The F-Pace is a front-runner in the mid-sized premium SUV class, where it rivals models such as the Audi Q5, BMW X3 and Mercedes GLC. Also worth considering are alternative choices such as the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Porsche Macan, Lexus NX and Volvo XC60, as well as the Range Rover Velar, which is similar to the F-Pace under the skin.

A facelift in late 2020 saw minor revisions to the F-Pace's already handsome exterior, while the cabin was treated to a significant overhaul. The most notable update was the addition of a larger 11.4-inch infotainment touchscreen, running Jaguar Land Rover's latest Pivi Pro operating system.

Another series of updates in 2023 saw further improvements made to the plug-in hybrid F-Pace’s efficiency. The P400e PHEV received a larger 19.2kWh battery in order to boost its pure-electric range up to 40 miles. This simultaneously reduced its already low Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) rating, making it even more appealing to company car drivers.

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From launch there have been a wide variety of F-Pace variants to choose from, but Jaguar slimmed down the lineup in 2023. The R-Dynamic S is now the entry-level model, but it’s well-equipped with the aforementioned Pivi Pro infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, LED lighting, two-zone climate control and numerous safety features all fitted as standard.

Stepping up to the R-Dynamic SE Black adds some cosmetic enhancements, a panoramic roof, keyless entry and privacy glass. The highest spec R-Dynamic model is the HSE Black, which features massaging seats and 21-inch alloy wheels, among other kit. 

The engine lineup for the F-Pace has also seen some changes, and now includes three petrols, two diesels and a plug-in hybrid powertrain. All three R-Dynamic models are available with the P250 four-cylinder petrol engine, D200 four-pot diesel and the P400e plug-in hybrid. On top of those, higher-spec SE and HSE Black cars are also offered with the 295bhp D300 six-cylinder diesel motor.

If you fancy reliving Jaguar’s sporting heritage or just want some extra oomph from your F-Pace, the 400 Sport model is powered exclusively by the P400 turbocharged straight-six petrol engine that produces close to 400bhp. If all-out performance is what you desire, the F-Pace SVR features a supercharged 5.0-litre V8 under the bonnet and will go from 0-62mph in four seconds flat – enough to keep up with a number of supercars.

For an alternative review of the Jaguar F-Pace, visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk...