The Jaguar F-PACE is an all-new model. It’s Jaguar's first SUV ever.

Truly Something Special

Now that Jaguar has finally committed to building a crossover SUV, it needs to be something special to stand out in a crowded segment with some well-established players.

Luckily, the 2017 Jaguar F-PACE has the goods. Named after the old Jaguar ad tagline “Grace, Pace, and Space,” it’s got plenty of each. The F-PACE features graceful styling that makes other crossovers look like boring trucks. It has impressive driving dynamics, thanks to a lightweight aluminum chassis and components shared with other Jaguar models. And it’s got a spacious interior packed with technology.

Powertrains and Performance

The F-PACE may be a different type of Jaguar, but difference goes both ways. Jaguar is approaching the crowded crossover segment from a different angle, and that’s apparent from the powertrains it will launch the F-PACE with.

At launch, Jaguar's first-ever crossover SUV will be offered with the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 that’s already used in numerous other Jaguar models, as well as those of sister brand Land Rover. Buyers will get to choose from a base version with 340 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, while a version with 380 hp (torque remains unchanged) will also be offered. Both versions are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, with all-wheel drive.

The 340-hp version will do 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, while the 380-hp one will do the deed in 5.1 seconds. Both supercharged models top out at 155 mph. The all-wheel drive system on all F-PACE models sends most power to the rear wheels most of the time for better handling. It’s also integrated with Jaguar’s Adaptive Surface Response system, which ties in the throttle mapping, transmission, and stability control to adapt to different conditions.

Later in 2016, a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel four-cylinder will be added to the lineup. Diesels have never been as popular in the U.S. as they are in Europe, but Jaguar chose this one to provide good fuel economy without sacrificing performance. The engine produces 180 hp and 318 lb-ft of torque, which is again sent to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission.

While less powerful than the gasoline V6, the diesel will still sprint to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds, and reach a top speed of 129 mph. EPA fuel-economy ratings for all F-PACE models will become available closer to launch, but we expect them to be very competitive.

Features and Trims

The 2017 Jaguar F-PACE is a five-door, five-seat crossover SUV. In fact, it’s Jaguar’s first-ever SUV. It will launch with six trim levels, priced starting from $40,990.*

Befitting a luxury vehicle, the base F-PACE comes well equipped, with features like 18-inch alloy wheels, 11-speaker Meridian® audio system, LED daytime running lights, HD Radio®, sliding panoramic roof, power tailgate, 40/20/40 split-folding rear bench seat, and power-adjustable front seats.

The F-PACE Premium includes all of the applicable standard features from the base model, and adds 19-inch wheels, front-seat and exterior-mirror memory, a rearview camera, and auto-dimming and power-folding exterior mirrors. The F-PACE Prestige includes all of those features Taurus leather seats, heated front seats and steering wheel, Jaguar InControl Apps™ connectivity, power lumbar for the front seats, interior mood lighting, front and rear parking aids, keyless entry, and navigation.

Further up the hierarchy, the F-PACE R-Sport incorporates the standard equipment from the preceding models, along with 20-inch wheels, a body kit and other model-specific exterior trim, full LED headlights, fog lights, sport seats, SiriusXM® satellite radio, and other features.

For 2017, the penultimate F-PACE model is the F-PACE S adds the 380-hp supercharged V6 engine, Adaptive Dynamics with Configurable Dynamic Mode, Adaptive Surface Response, a distinctive body kit, red brake calipers, and more.

To celebrate the launch of this all-new model, Jaguar will also offer an F-PACE First Edition for 2017. This limited-edition model includes all of the previously mentioned standard equipment, plus 22-inch wheels, gesture-controlled tailgate head-up display, 17-speaker Meridian® Digital surround sound system, four-zone automatic climate control, reclining heated rear seats, unique interior with Houndstooth-embossed Windsor leather sport seats, and the most advanced version of Jaguar’s InControl® infotainment system.

Design

The F-PACE is based on the Jaguar C-X17 concept car, retaining much of its athletic character. It features plenty of the handsome styling elements that define the Jaguar XE and XF sedans, and rides Jaguar’s new Lightweight Aluminum Architecture, making it among the lightest vehicles in its class. The exterior styling is nicely completed some elements from the F-TYPE sports car, at the rear.

The interior also features the handsome design language of other recent Jaguars, making the F-PACE feel like more than just another crossover. It’s also loaded with technology, including the latest version of Jaguar’s InControl infotainment system with InControl Apps smartphone connectivity, and InControl Remote functionality that allows iOS and Android users to control certain vehicle functions remotely through an app.

Safety

Standard safety equipment on the 2017 Jaguar F-PACE includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, and a full array of airbags. Optional features include a rearview camera, park-assist system, lane-keep assist with Drive Condition Monitoring, Blind Spot Monitor with Close Vehicle Sensing, Reverse Traffic Detection, Automatic Emergency Braking, and Traffic Sign Recognition with Adaptive Speed Limiter.

Bottom Line

For a company that’s never made an SUV before, Jaguar certainly seems to have the fundamentals of the game down. The 2017 Jaguar F-PACE looks like a compelling first entry into a crowded and competitive segment.

Be sure to contact us online or visit us at 3Birds Template to be among the first to test drive the all-new Jaguar F-PACE.

*Price shown is Base Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price. Excludes $995 destination/handling charge, tax, title, license, and retailer fees, all due at signing, and optional equipment. Total Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price includes $995 destination/handling charge and may include optional equipment but excludes tax, title, license, and retailer fees, all due at signing. Retailer price, terms and vehicle availability may vary. See your local authorized Jaguar Retailer for details.

Image: Jaguar