Jaguar F-Pace S SUV review
Top-of-the-range Jaguar F-Pace S brings lots of equipment and driving thrills
Just like the Porsche Macan and Alfa Romeo Stelvio, the Jaguar F-Pace is a premium SUV that aims to provide a sporty driving experience in a practical and luxurious high-riding package. The sportiest model in the range is the Jaguar F-Pace S, powered by a 296bhp 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
Performance is punchy – 0-62mph takes just 6.2 seconds and top speed is 150mph. The 3.0-litre diesel engine produces more torque than many rivals, making it perfect for brisk overtaking and towing.
Read our full Jaguar F-Pace review here
Taken by the scruff of the neck on the road, the F-Pace S feels much like a smaller Jaguar sports saloon – body roll is well controlled, steering is direct and from behind the wheel, the car feels much smaller than it is. Stick with the standard alloy wheels and there’s a great balance between comfort and control, despite the F-Pace S’ considerable 1,884kg kerb weight.
The Jaguar F-Pace S sits at the top of the F-Pace tree and comes very well equipped. There’s an eight-inch screen for the infotainment system, along with sat nav, a high-end Meridian stereo and leather upholstery, while outside the F-Pace receives some styling upgrades; optional 22-inch alloy wheels and purposeful sporty body styling help set it apart from lesser models. It’s worth avoiding those larger wheels to preserve the car’s ride quality, however.
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The Jaguar F-Pace’s interior is suitably sporty, with a driver-focused layout and supportive sports seats, plus S badging and unique trim choices. However, some rivals’ interiors feature better, more modern designs. The F-Pace boasts one of the biggest boots in the class at 650 litres, while access is easy via a powered tailgate.
Standard equipment is generous when compared to the Jaguar F-Pace’s premium rivals: front and rear parking sensors, stop/start, sat nav, lane-departure warning and a heated front windscreen are all included, along with electrically-adjustable heated front seats. Options worth specifying include adaptive headlights for around £900 and a pack that includes automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control for around £1,450. A panoramic sunroof can be specified for £1,250. Sadly, there’s no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, with Jaguar equipping its own connectivity software that isn’t quite as effective.
Verdict 4/5
