2018 Jaguar E-Pace Review: Design, Specifications, and Performance
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Introduction
We are currently experiencing a golden age for SUVs, with a wide array of options available from manufacturers worldwide, in various sizes and specifications. The market has even diversified to include coupe-style SUVs, a trend driven by the significant sales growth of this vehicle type compared to sedans, particularly in the compact and subcompact categories which have seen notable success in recent years. For example, Porsche introduced the Macan following the Cayenne, while Range Rover launched the Evoque after the Sport. BMW has expanded its lineup from the X5 to the X3 and most recently the X2, and Audi followed suit with the Q5 and Q3 after the Q7.
Today, we will explore Jaguar Land Rover's attempt to introduce a compact and sporty SUV under the Jaguar brand. After the launch of the F-Pace in 2015, we received its smaller sibling in 2017, the E-Pace, specifically the Jaguar E-Pace R-Dynamic HSE that we will review today.
Exterior Design
The exterior design of the Jaguar E-Pace is characterized by its compact and sporty shape, adhering to the same design language found in both the F-Type and F-Pace. The R-Dynamic variant exhibits an even sportier character with:
- A large, glossy black front grille.
- Large air intakes beneath the vehicle.
- Clearly defined power lines on the hood, sides, and rear.
- A sloping roofline that descends towards the rear of the vehicle.
The model we have today features black 20-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, and fog lights. The beautiful and sporty Jaguar design continues at the back with:
- LED taillights.
- A small rear spoiler.
- Large dual exhaust outlets.
Interior Design and Specifications
The sporty design theme continues inside the cabin with a sleek and driver-focused layout, featuring:
- Generous storage space in the doors.
- High-quality materials throughout.
- A 10-inch touchscreen with the Touch Pro infotainment system.
- Navigation system with Bluetooth connectivity.
- An 11-speaker Meridian sound system.
The version we have today includes a feature called Dual View, allowing different information to be displayed for the driver and passenger. However, despite this feature, the overall quality and responsiveness of the infotainment system do not match those found in competing German vehicles.
The specifications continue with:
- Climate control system.
- A 12.3-inch display replacing the traditional instrument cluster.
- Information controls via buttons on the steering wheel.
Rear Seats
Regarding the rear seats, the compact sporty design has negatively impacted the available space for passengers. Nevertheless, the model we have features a full panoramic roof that cannot be opened, giving rear occupants a greater sense of space. The trunk capacity reaches 577 liters, which can be expanded to 1234 liters by folding the rear seats.
Safety Features
The 2018 E-Pace comes equipped with:
- Six airbags.
- Blind-spot monitoring system.
- Lane departure warning system.
- 360-degree cameras and sensors.
Despite the high-quality images from the car's cameras, when selecting the 360-degree view, you'll notice that the image is quite small relative to the large screen.
Driving Experience
I expected this vehicle to provide the sporty feel typical of Jaguar cars, but unfortunately, that was not the case. This is primarily because the E-Pace is built on the Range Rover Evoque platform, resulting in a heavier vehicle. It features a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine that produces 245 horsepower and 365 Nm of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7 seconds.
While the additional weight contributes to a sense of stability on the road, the sportier suspension may cause the driver to feel road imperfections and bumps.
The E-Pace is equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission, featuring paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. It excels in smooth gear transitions, although there is a slight delay when shifting from higher to lower gears. The steering is precise but feels somewhat artificial.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the vehicle averages 9 liters per 100 km in urban driving conditions.
Conclusion
I'll conclude with an additional feature available with the Jaguar E-Pace, the Activity Key, designed for active individuals. It can be easily used when leaving the vehicle, providing peace of mind.
The starting price for the E-Pace is AED 163,800, while the E-Pace R-Dynamic HSE starts at AED 231,420, with optional extras potentially reaching up to AED 100,000.
