What is it
Jaguar’s much-anticipated first foray into the performance SUV market.
Signature feature
Its size. Jaguar is a master of creating fast cars that are low, long and sleek. They’ve managed to infuse the F-PACE with that essence without creating a lumbering, boxy beast of an SUV. Instead, the five-passenger vehicle will compete in the medium SUV segment as a luxury compact and has the chops to take on like-sized competitors (think Porsche Macan and Audi’s Q5) as well as upper-class rigs such as the BMW X5 (Jag says its F-PACE boasts more rear storage space).
What else is new
Jaguar’s Activity Key, a waterproof, shockproof wristband that looks a lot like a Fitbit. Integrated with a transponder activated when held atop the ‘J’ on the tailgate, the key can lock and unlock the vehicle, allowing the driver to leave the keys in the car (they’re disabled by the Activity Key) and strike out on adventure without a pocket full of fob.
Under the hood
The F-PACE comes with three engine options, including a 180-horsepower 2.0-litre diesel slated for release in late 2016 that will surely give former Volkswagen diesel devotees a bright spot to focus on. In the meantime, F-PACE will hit dealerships in 340- and 380-horsepower form, powered by a supercharged 3.0-litre V-6 and an eight-speed, all-wheel-drive system.
When can we buy it, and for how much
Gasoline-powered models are slated to appear in dealerships this spring, with diesel models following later in the year. Pricing starts at $49,900 and tops out at $66,400.
Cool quotient
4.5 stars (out of 5)
The F-PACE boasts a high novelty factor and a ton of smart style, right down to the little patches of houndstooth the SUV’s jaunty designers used to frame the inside door handles. With a confident stance, sweeping lines and Jaguar’s toothy, signature grille, this SUV practically growls out loud of its sports car roots.
The writer was a guest of the auto maker. Content was not subject to approval.
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