Jaguar F-Pace review - Interior, design and technology

The Jaguar F-Pace remains faithful to the original C-X17 concept first revealed back in 2013 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and is arguably one of the best-looking SUVs on the market. Designer Ian Callum did a great job, and the upright, bluff nose and mesh grille, along with the narrow headlights, give it a sporty appearance. But despite its vast proportions its hunkered shape helps to disguise its bulk.

From the front, the F-Pace looks intimidating with its big grille and swept-back headlights, while the Jaguar’s coupe-like profile and narrow window line add an aggressive touch. From the rear, R-Sport versions get a bespoke bumper that gives it a sharper look compared to the rest of the range, while the F-Type-inspired tail-lights break up the tailgate.

Plenty of gloss-black trim for the front end, doors and roof rails gives a subtly sporty look, while Jag offers a range of personalisation options to help you individualise your car.

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Inside, the F-Pace takes all that is good from the XF and XJ and translates it into a high-riding SUV package. That means the facia arcs round from the two widest air vents, giving a wraparound feel, while the XE's same classy materials and easy-to-operate buttons are present, alongside the beautifully crafted thick rim steering wheel and bright, airy cabin. As with the XE there are some ergonomic issues and questions over material quality in areas, particularly the plastics used lower down in the cabin, but overall it's a nice place to spend time.

Spec the InControl Touch Pro Pack and you’ll benefit from the brilliant 12.3-inch infotainment system, 380W Meridian sound system, and classy digital dials, too – an option we think is well worth the extra cash. The screen employs smartphone-style pinch-to-zoom functionality, making it extremely intuitive to use.

Sat-nav, stereo and infotainment

All versions of the F-Pace feature the brand’s latest InControl Touch Navigation, which is controlled via an eight-inch touchscreen. The graphics aren’t as crisp as an Audi Q5’s, the interface is a bit fiddly and the screen can sometimes feel a bit unresponsive, especially if you’re trying to operate it while on the move. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available if you prefer to use your smartphone apps instead. Use the built-in sat nav, and programming a destination is easy, while the 3D mapping is clear.

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Also included is InConnect Wi-Fi. This requires a subscription, although it turns your car into a 4G hotspot.

Upgrade to the Navigation Pro package (about £1,800) and you get a larger 12.2-inch screen, plus a similar-sized TFT display ahead of the driver that replaces the traditional dials. Also included is a 380W Meridian sound system, which can be ordered on its own for about £700. Jaguar also offers a dual-view option (around £625) that allows two people to look at the screen and see different functions at the same time. It’s a clever feature, but really requires the addition of the TV tuner for around £900 to make the most of it.