Jaguar F-Pace review

The F-Pace is one of the sportiest-looking SUVs and it backs this up by being great fun to drive. It’s smooth, comfortable and more practical than many rivals thanks to its roomy interior and huge boot.

It’s quite expensive, but the same is true of any mid-size premium SUV and the F-Pace is very well-equipped. Running costs can be kept reasonably low if you choose your model carefully.

The dashboard has a minimalist look, with simple dials surrounding a useful driving information screen. The centre console has an infotainment touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity and vehicle info. It’s not as modern-looking as the equivalent in some rivals, but it’s easy enough to use. Some cars are fitted with an optional 10.2-inch screen that adds a bit more wow factor.

Space for driver and passengers is very good and some models have optional reclining rear seats. There are loads of handy cubby holes for your bits and bobs.
The boot is massive, with a capacity of 650 litres that’s more than you get with most rivals.  Three large suitcases will fit easily and if you’re a dog owner there’s more than enough space for your pampered pet to stretch out.

The F-Pace is a big, heavy car but it feels anything but that on the road. Thanks to its sharp handling and responsive steering it feels more like a sporty saloon, yet the ride remains comfortable. The sporty models at the top of the range have bigger wheels and stiffer suspension that trade a bit of comfort for even more fun behind the wheel.
There are a wide range of engines to choose from, ranging from smaller diesel engines that prioritise fuel economy to turbocharged petrols that put explosive pace above all else. Most models come with four-wheel drive; the least expensive versions have rear-wheel drive.

This is a very comfortable car over long distances thanks to its smooth ride and quietness at speed. It’s easy enough to drive around town too, with a good view out of the front and a rear-view camera that helps when parking.

Prices are generally similar to major rivals such as the Audi Q5, BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC. As with those cars, you can choose from more budget-conscious versions at one end of the range to high-performance models packed with luxury kit at the other. There’s a big difference in price between the two, so it’s important to know what your budget and priorities are.

Similarly, running costs range from surprisingly low to eye-wateringly expensive. Unlike some rivals the F-Pace isn’t available as a hybrid, which might disappoint you if you’re looking for a low-emissions option.

Jaguar’s reliability record doesn’t really live up to its premium image, although it finished higher than both Audi and BMW as a brand in the 2019 J.D. Power UK Vehicle Dependability Study.

Every version is very safe and the F-Pace scored a maximum five-star rating in Euro NCAP tests. Standard-fit automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning systems help you avoid a collision but some of the more advanced driver aids you get with rivals are optional extras.