2021 JAGUAR F-PACE
The Face of Success
When it comes to developing a car, passion and practicality are often at odds. Lean too close to passion, and you’re left with something that excels in certain situations but fails in most others. Lean too close to practicality, and driving dynamics and styling can suffer.
Enter the 2021 Jaguar F-PACE. Despite being a luxury crossover, it’s exceptionally fun to drive and gorgeous to behold, all while being spacious and usable, making it one of the top choices in the segment and a model that its competitors should most definitely be worried about.
Performance
Jaguar approached the crowded crossover segment from a different angle, and that’s apparent from the numerous powertrain options on hand for the 2021 F-PACE.
The base model comes standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine capable of putting out 246 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. This trim gets all-wheel drive as a standard, which provides all-terrain capability in addition to a smooth and capable ride on the interstate. Not only is it fuel-smart, getting an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway,* it's also fast, accelerating from 0 to 60 in 6.9 seconds with a top speed 135 mph. For more power and great efficiency, the 3.0-liter MHEV inline-six engine is capable of up to 335 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque.
Then there's the 3.0-liter MHEV engine that powers the R-DYNAMIC, and it's capable of up to 395 horsepower and 405 pound-feet of torque. Jaguar is proving that driving a hybrid vehicle doesn't have to be slow and boring.
At the top of the food chain is the performance-oriented F-PACE SVR. This model uses Jaguar's 5.0-liter supercharged V8 under the hood. Power output is 550 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. The sprint to 60 mph is dispensed within 3.8 seconds, and the SVR will keep on running to 176 mph. Most impressive.
The all-wheel-drive system on all F-PACE models sends most power to the rear wheels for better handling. It’s also integrated with the Jaguar Adaptive Surface Response system, which ties in the throttle mapping, transmission, and stability control to adapt to different conditions.
Design
Befitting a luxury vehicle, the base F-PACE comes well equipped with features, like 18-inch alloy wheels, 11-speaker Meridian® audio system, LED daytime running lights, HD Radio®, sliding panoramic roof, power tailgate, 40/20/40 split-folding rear bench seat, and power-adjustable front seats.
The F-PACE is based on the Jaguar C-X17 concept car, retaining much of its athletic character. It features plenty of the handsome styling elements that define the Jaguar XE and XF sedans, and rides on the new Jaguar Lightweight Aluminum Architecture, making it among the lightest vehicles in its class. The exterior styling is nice and boasts some elements from the svelte F-TYPE sports car at the rear.
The interior also features the handsome design language of other recent Jaguar models, making the F-PACE feel like more than just another crossover. It’s loaded with technology, including the latest version of the Jaguar InControl® infotainment system with InControl® Apps smartphone connectivity, and InControl® Remote functionality that allows iOS and Android users to control certain vehicle functions remotely through an app. Each F-PACE model also comes with the company's Touch Pro™ 10-inch touchscreen as standard.
Safety
Jaguar prioritizes safety alongside performance and design. Standard features like Front and Rear Parking Aid, Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keep Assist, and a 3D Surround Camera offer the most popular assistance features to every trim. Available options like Traffic Sign Recognition, Adaptive Speed Limiter, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Rear Collision Monitor reduce driving fatigue on long drives and minimize the risks of being on the road.
Verdict
For a company that’s never made an SUV before, Jaguar certainly seems to have the fundamentals of the game down. The 2021 Jaguar F-PACE is a unique and compelling entry into a crowded and competitive segment.
Be sure to contact us online or visit Client at 505 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516 to test drive the stunning Jaguar F-PACE.
* Based on EPA estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and your vehicle’s condition.
** Price shown is Base Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price. Excludes destination/handling charge, tax, title, license, and retailer fees, all due at signing, and optional equipment. Total Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price includes destination/handling charge and may include optional equipment but excludes tax, title, license, and retailer fees, all due at signing. Retailer price, terms and vehicle availability may vary. See your local authorized Jaguar Retailer for details.
Image Credit: Jaguar