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2017 Jaguar F-Pace: Our View

Jaguar F-Pace Review: A True Performance SUV | MotorVero

Jaguar F-Pace Review: The Performance SUV That Drives Like a True Jaguar

Jaguar F-Pace

Featured Snippet: The Jaguar F-Pace combines sports car dynamics with SUV versatility, offering supercharged V-6 power (340-380 hp), agile handling, and a luxurious interior. While it faces some electronic glitches, its driving experience sets it apart from Land Rover counterparts and German rivals.

When Jaguar decided to enter the booming SUV market, it faced a curious dilemma. As part of the Tata Motors family alongside Land Rover, the logical move would have been to rebadge an existing Land Rover model. Yet Jaguar insisted on creating something entirely new—an SUV that could genuinely drive like a Jaguar. The result? The F-Pace, a vehicle that bridges the gap between sports sedan agility and SUV practicality.

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Why the F-Pace Stands Apart from Land Rover

Unlike Land Rover’s rugged, off-road-focused SUVs, the F-Pace was engineered for on-road performance. Built on the same platform as the Jaguar XE and XF sedans, it prioritizes:

  • Precise steering feedback
  • Minimal body roll in corners
  • Immediate throttle response
  • A lower center of gravity than traditional SUVs

This focus makes it one of the few SUVs that delivers a genuinely sporty driving experience—something neither the Range Rover Sport nor Evoque could replicate.

Exterior Design: Jaguar’s Signature Styling in SUV Form

Jaguar vs Land Rover

The F-Pace carries Jaguar’s unmistakable design language into the SUV segment. Key styling elements include:

  • Distinctive front fascia: Slim LED headlights flanking the iconic mesh grille
  • Muscular proportions: A long hood, short overhangs, and wide stance (81.5 inches—wider than a BMW X5)
  • Aerodynamic profile: Flowing roofline and pronounced wheel arches

While the design enhances its sporty character, the high beltline and small rear window compromise rear visibility—a common trade-off in performance-oriented SUVs.

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Performance: Sports Car DNA in an SUV Body

At launch, the F-Pace offered two versions of Jaguar’s supercharged 3.0-liter V-6:

Engine Horsepower 0-60 mph Top Speed
3.0L Supercharged V-6 340 hp 5.4 seconds 155 mph (limited)
3.0L Supercharged V-6 (S) 380 hp 5.1 seconds 155 mph (limited)

Both engines deliver:

  • Instant throttle response with minimal turbo lag
  • A satisfying supercharger whine under hard acceleration
  • Seamless power delivery via the 8-speed automatic transmission

Handling and Ride Quality

The F-Pace shines in corners, offering:

  • Precise, well-weighted steering
  • Minimal body lean for an SUV
  • Strong grip from the standard all-wheel-drive system

The trade-off is a firm ride, especially with the optional adaptive dampers. While it handles broken pavement better than a true sports car, comfort-focused SUVs like the Mercedes GLC absorb bumps more effectively.

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Interior: Jaguar Luxury Meets Practicality

performance SUV

The F-Pace’s cabin blends Jaguar’s traditional craftsmanship with SUV functionality:

Strengths:

  • Driver-focused layout: Cockpit-style dashboard with intuitive controls
  • Premium materials: Soft-touch surfaces and optional leather upholstery
  • Spacious cargo area: 33.5 cu-ft behind rear seats, expanding to 63.5 cu-ft

Weaknesses:

  • Inconsistent material quality: Hard plastics on lower surfaces
  • Tight rear seat: Low seating position reduces thigh support
  • Base model shortcomings: Vinyl upholstery feels inferior to rivals’ standard leather


Technology: Cutting-Edge Features with Some Quirks

The F-Pace offers Jaguar’s latest infotainment systems, but with some notable omissions:

Standard Features:

  • 8-inch touchscreen with physical shortcut buttons
  • Meridian audio system
  • Bluetooth connectivity

Available Upgrades:

  • 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
  • 10.2-inch touchscreen with pinch-to-zoom navigation
  • Activity Key (waterproof wristband key fob)

Notable Absences: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were unavailable at launch—a surprising omission in a luxury vehicle.

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Reliability Concerns: Electronic Glitches

During testing, several issues emerged:

  • Intermittent audio system failures (radio/SiriusXM cutting out)
  • Backup camera occasionally not engaging
  • False warnings from the collision avoidance system

While not uncommon in first-model-year vehicles, these glitches raise questions about long-term reliability—though Jaguar’s excellent warranty helps mitigate concerns.

How It Compares to Key Rivals

The F-Pace occupies a unique position between compact and midsize luxury SUVs:

Model Starting Price Horsepower Cargo Space
Jaguar F-Pace $43,000 340-380 hp 33.5 cu-ft
BMW X3 $42,000 248-355 hp 28.7 cu-ft
Mercedes GLC $41,000 255-362 hp 19.4 cu-ft

Key Advantages Over Competitors:

  • More engaging driving dynamics than German rivals
  • Larger cargo area than most competitors
  • Distinctive styling that stands out in a crowded segment

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the F-Pace?

The Jaguar F-Pace makes the most sense for:

  • Driving enthusiasts who want SUV practicality without sacrificing performance
  • Design-conscious buyers seeking an alternative to German luxury SUVs
  • Jaguar loyalists transitioning from sedans to SUVs

While it isn’t perfect—the ride could be more compliant and the electronics more reliable—the F-Pace delivers on its promise of being a true Jaguar first and an SUV second. For shoppers prioritizing driving pleasure above all else in a luxury SUV, it remains one of the most compelling options available.

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Last Updated On May, 28-2025

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