Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia has just unveiled the all-new Jaguar F-Pace, the British firm’s first-ever SUV.
I had the opportunity to sample the Jaguar F-Pace for a brief moment, and here’s what I think of the new model.
Upon entering the F-Pace, I couldn’t help but the notice the similarities the SUV shares with its smaller siblings, namely the XE and XF. Controls are placed in the same location as you would find in the Jaguar sedans, though seating position is noticeably taller. What’s different is that the range-topping R-Sport variant boasts a 12.3-inch digital meter cluster with virtual dials, akin to Audi’s Virtual Cockpit.
Elsewhere, the Jaguar F-Pace R-Sport boasts a large 10.2-inch InControl Touch Pro infotainment system with SSD navigation, which allows for much smoother UI interactions than the SD card-based system. Pixel density is decent enough, which allows for sharper fonts and better graphics. During my short time with the F-Pace, I did not notice any stuttering when using the said infotainment system, which on the R-Sport, can be used to configure the SUV’s dynamics, including the throttle mapping, gearbox shift points, steering and damper.
On the move, it is evident that the Jaguar F-Pace is a very special SUV. Even when the drive mode is set to normal, the F-Pace can be described as the best sounding SUV I’ve ever driven. There’s a hint of ferocity when the F-Pace’s throttle is urged, and when coupled with the supercharger whine from the engine, makes for an unforgettable experience.
Noise aside, the F-Pace is quick. 5.8 seconds to 100 km/h quick. These figures are achieved by Jaguar’s 3.0-litre supercharged V6 that does 340 PS and 450 Nm, mated to an eight-speed automatic with Jaguar Sequential Shift. Drive is sent to all four wheels, though Jaguar’s All Wheel Drive system predominantly sends torque to the rear wheels, making the F-Pace feel like a rear wheel drive vehicle.
Although my time with the Jaguar F-Pace was brief, I am convinced that this could be a volume seller for Jaguar, seeing that global trends are favouring SUVs as a whole. With prices starting from RM598,800, the Jaguar F-Pace has its sights set on the Porsche Macan S, which offers similar power but in a smaller frame.
