I can’t hide my enthusiasm for the Jaguar F-PACE, a vehicle flirting with the edge of automated driving.
Beyond its near-autonomous capabilities, the F-PACE impresses with its aesthetics and myriad thoughtful features, making driving as simple as ABC.
Entering the SUV arena, Jaguar’s F-PACE stands toe-to-toe with the likes of Land Rover’s Discovery Sport, yet it’s unmistakably Jaguar in every sense. A word of caution to novice drivers: the F-PACE’s plethora of automated features might leave you unprepared for the basics in a less-equipped vehicle.
The Jaguar F-PACE Portfolio 2.0D AWD caught my eye with its nuanced design touches, like the high beam headlights that intuitively adjust to oncoming traffic in remote areas, illuminating the way forward and dimming to prevent blinding others.
“Look, Mum, no hands!”
This car brings joy with its automated reverse parking—a feature once showcased as the future of auto technology, now a reality in Jaguar’s lineup. It parks with precision, navigating tight spots effortlessly, a testament to Jaguar’s forward-thinking engineering.
The F-PACE Portfolio doesn’t skimp on luxury, with 19” alloy wheels (upgraded to 20-inch Templar Twin 5-Spoke wheels at no extra cost in my model) and a Fixed Panoramic Roof among its plethora of standard features. Under the hood, the 2.0-litre Turbocharged Diesel engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, delivers robust performance, achieving 0-62mph in 8.2 seconds, remarkable for its class and size and comes fitted with the following as standard:
- 19” alloy wheels (the model I drove came with 20-inch Templar Twin 5-Spoke wheels at no extra cost)
- Fixed Panoramic Roof with Satin Chrome Roof Rails
- Tyre Repair System
- Meridian Sound System (380W)
- Xenon Headlights with LED Blade Daytime Running Lights
- Auto-Dimming Power Fold Heated Door Mirrors
- Perforated Windsor Leather Luxury Seats
- 10-Way Electric Front Seats
- InControl Apps, WIFI and Touch Navigation
- Electric Front and Rear Windows with One-Touch Open/Close and Anti-Trap
Optional extras on the model I drove, like the Corris Grey paint and Sliding Panoramic Roof, demonstrate the extent to which customization can enhance the driving experience, albeit at a price. Take a look at all of these optional extras.
- Corris Grey – £705
- Latte Windsor Leather Seats (No Cost)
- 20-inch Templar Twin 5-Spoke wheels (No Cost)
- Sliding Panoramic Roof with Satin Rails – £320
- Privacy Glass – £395
- Panoramic Roof with Glass Black Rails – £1,250
- Light Oyster Morzine Headlining Colour (No Cost)
- Gloss Figured Ebony Veneer (No Cost)
- Navigation Pro with Meridian Surround System 825W – £2,140
- Configurable Ambient Interior Lighting – £210
- Gloss Black Grille – £442
- Memory Pack for 14-Way Seats – £880
- Adaptive Dynamics Pack – £1,185
- Practicality Pack – £470
- Advance Parking Assist Pack with Surround Camera – £1,930
- Cold Climate Pack – £540
- Head Up Display Pack – £1,270
- Electrically Deployable Tow Bar – £990
- Illuminated Metal Treadplates with Metal Loadspace Scuff Plate – £785
- 10” Dual View Touchscreen – £625
- Activity Key – £320
- Blind Spot Monitor and Reverse Traffic Detection – £525
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Queue Assist and Intelligent Emergency Braking – £1,460
- High Mileage Service Plan – £719
Inside, the ride is smooth and opulent. The leather seats are a touch of elegance, and the cabin’s solid build quality ensures a serene driving experience. This vehicle is not just for getting from point A to B; it’s about enjoying the journey, whether it’s a long road trip or a quick jaunt to the coast.
The panoramic sunroof bathes the interior in natural light, adding a peaceful Zen quality to every drive. With ample boot space and legroom, the F-PACE caters comfortably to the taller drivers among us, providing a comfortable ride without the cramped feeling often found in other SUVs.
Priced from £47,115.00 (OTR) for the base model, the Jaguar F-PACE Portfolio 2.0D AWD I tested, with options, came to £63,571.00. While adding features can quickly increase the cost, the F-PACE offers a blend of style, comfort, and luxury that justifies the investment.
In conclusion, the Jaguar F-PACE Portfolio 2.0D AWD stands out as a lifestyle choice, offering everything you could want in an SUV: style, comfort, and a touch of luxury.
For more details and to explore the F-PACE’s full range, visit jaguar.co.uk.