Automotive

Friday, September 11, 2020

2021 Jaguar I-Pace Review


2021 Jaguar I-Pace

Overview


The 2021 Jaguar I-Pace is a fascinating all-electric crossover that looks good and drives well. 

Its luxury designation and price will limit its mainstream popularity, but there's no denying that the I-Pace's futuristic facade captures the imagination. 

2021 Jaguar I-Pace

This ute boasts an EPA-rated range of 253 miles plus fast-charging capability and instantaneous acceleration. The I-Pace also handles more like a sports car than a five-seat crossover, with its controlled demeanor and tactile steering. 

Inside, the Jag shows off with cutting-edge design, ample passenger space, and popular features. The 2021 I-Pace proves that EVs can be electrifying in other ways.

2021 Jaguar I-Pace

What's New for 2021?

For 2021, Jaguar gives the I-Pace a handful of improvements. The SUV now offers a complimentary 4G data plan, a 360-degree camera system, and wireless charging. 

The optional Bright package adds chrome exterior trim, Atlas Grey accents, and other minor styling changes. Inside, there's a new infotainment system that's said to be easier to operate than the one it replaces. 

Plus, it gains a feature that tells you where the nearest charging stations are and how long it should take to restore the battery. 

The I-Pace also receives a 11.0-kW onboard charger that delivers quicker at-home charging than the old 7.0-kW version. 

Now, it'll take you 8.6 hours to fully recharge a dead battery versus 12.6 hours before, according to Jaguar.

2021 Jaguar I-PACE - 5054418
2021 Jaguar I-Pace

Pricing and Which One to Buy

  •  S: $71,000 (est)
  •  SE: $78,000 (est)
  •  HSE: $82,000 (est)

    Jaguar hasn't said how much the 2021 I-Pace will cost or when it will go on sale, but I expect to see it in showrooms later this year for just a little more than last year's model. 

    I think the mid-level SE is the version to get. It's considerably more expensive than the base ute, but it adds desirable features such as large 20-inch wheels, real leather upholstery, brighter and more distinct LED headlights, and a power-operated lift-gate. 

    The SE also gets upgraded driver assists, including adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The only options I'd select are the 10-way power front seats with heated cushions, the four-zone climate control, and the head-up display. 

    Finally, I'd optimize the I-Pace's driving characteristics with the Adaptive Dynamics package and the Adaptive Surface Response system. Together these options enhance the EV's ride and handling as well as the all-wheel-drive system's traction management.

    2021 Jaguar I-Pace

    Engine, Transmission, and Performance

    The I-Pace boasts standard all-wheel drive thanks to two electric motors that produce a combined 394 horsepower and 512 pound-feet of torque. 

    That energy provides quick and effortless acceleration to zip between city stoplights and pass slowpokes on the highway. The I-Pace has a comfortable ride courtesy of its standard air suspension as well as satisfying steering feedback. 

    A hefty battery pack beneath the floor provides a low center of gravity that gives the electrified Jag an extra dose of agility and stability. It is unquestionably fun to drive, its uneven braking behavior when coming to a stop is a shortcoming.

    2021 Jaguar I-Pace


    Range, Charging, and Battery Life

    Every I-Pace features a 90.0-kWh battery pack that provides an EPA-rated driving range of 253 miles. For comparison, the Audi e-tron has an estimated range of up to 204 miles and the Tesla Model X, up to 295 miles. 

    Still, the electric Jag includes a standard DC fast-charging port that allows 80 percent of its battery to be replenished in as little as 40 minutes. 

    2021 Jaguar I-Pace

    Those without access to the fastest charging option will have to wait a claimed 8.6 hours to fully replenish the battery using the more common 240-volt AC outlet. 

    This is an improvement over last year's model, which required almost 13 hours to charge this way. The difference? Jaguar upgraded the I-Pace's onboard charger from a 7.0-kW unit to one with 11.0 kilowatts.

    2021 Jaguar I-Pace

    Fuel Economy

    Neither the EPA nor Jaguar has weighed in on the 2021 I-Pace's efficiency, The government says the 2020 I-Pace will get 80 MPGe in the city, 72 MPGe on the highway, and 76 MPGe combined. 

    While those ratings are comparable with the e-Tron's, they're considerably lower than the Model X's.

    2021 Jaguar I-Pace


    Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

    Jaguar complements the I-Pace's stylish exterior with a sophisticated cabin that boasts a flashy dashboard and ample passenger space.

    While the front seats are nicely bolstered, they're not the most comfortable on prolonged trips. 

    2021 Jaguar I-Pace

    Of course, the I-Pace can be outfitted with many desirable features such as four-zone climate control, a head-up display, heated front and rear seats, various choices of leather upholstery, and more. 

    Its cubby storage is highlighted by a versatile center console that features a useful bin under the armrest and a tray below the center stack. 

    In the back, we managed to fit seven carry-on suitcases in the cargo area and 18 with the rear seats folded.

    Jaguar I-Pace gets smarter and faster with 2021 upgrades
    2021 Jaguar I-Pace


    Infotainment and Connectivity


    Every I-Pace comes with a touch-sensitive infotainment system that includes a 10.0-inch upper screen for audio and the like as well as a 5.5-inch lower display that primarily handles cabin climate. 

    While Jaguar claims to have updated the interface to be more intuitive than before, One neat feature of the new software is that it'll show you the locations of charging stations as well as their availability, cost, and estimated charging time. 

    Every I-Pace supports Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration and a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. A 380-watt Meridian sound system comes standard but can be swapped for an 825-watt unit.

    2021 Jaguar I-Pace

    Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

    The 2021 I-Pace hasn't been crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). 

    However, this ute does have an assortment of standard and optional driver-assistance technology

    Key safety features include:

    •  Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
    •  Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
    •  Available adaptive cruise control

    • 2021 Jaguar I-Pace
    • Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

    Jaguar provides one of the most comprehensive warranty plans on the market, with lengthy limited and power-train coverage. Plus, it offers one of the best complimentary scheduled maintenance periods I've seen.

    •  Limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
    •  Power-train warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
    •  Electric components are covered for eight years or 100,000 miles
    •  Complimentary maintenance is covered for five years or 60,000 miles.
    • 2021 Jaguar I-Pace





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    Thursday, September 10, 2020

    2020 Jaguar XF Review

    2020 Jaguar XF

    Overview

    Jaguar may be moving towards electrification and building more SUVs, but its XF sedan still offers lovely styling and is still engaging to drive. 

    While it competes with many more sought-after alternatives, the Jaguar XF actually manages to preserve and promote the brand's exclusivity. 

    2020 Jaguar XF


    Its athletic handling and smooth ride satisfy both sporty and luxury intentions. Likewise, the 2020 XF S has a potent 380-hp supercharged V-6 for aspiring hot shoes. 

    2020 Jaguar XF

    Still, the XF has flaws such as an erratic infotainment system and disappointing leather materials. The Jaguar XF isn't one of the best sedans, but it is one of the most rare and refined in its class.

    2020 Jaguar XF

    What's New for 2020?

    Jaguar has made several changes to the 2020 XF, which include newly standard features and a limited-edition model. 

    The sedan also no longer offers a diesel four-cylinder engine. Every XF now has standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, front and rear parking sensors, and more. 

    2020 Jaguar XF


    A pair of new paint colors include Portofino Blue and Eiger Grey. The Jaguar XF Checkered Flag is a limited edition that boasts exclusive interior and exterior details as well as the more powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

    2020 Jaguar XF


    Jaguar XF Pricing and Which One to Buy

    •  25t: $52,095
    •  30t: $59,545
    •  S: $69,195

      The 2020 XF doesn't need the available supercharged V-6 or a surplus of luxury options to look and feel special. I'd recommend the entry-level 25t with its dutiful turbocharged four-cylinder and suave driving manners.

      2020 Jaguar XF

       We'd also add all-wheel drive for $3000 and choose the fancier Prestige model. 

      This requires paying more but adds nicer interior materials, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, built-in navigation, and more. 

      Although Jaguar offers even more luxurious upgrades, I'll let buyers decide how much more they want to pay.

      2020 Jaguar XF Sedan: Review, Trims, Specs, Price, New Interior Features,  Exterior Design, and Specifications | CarBuzz
      2020 Jaguar XF

      Engines, Transmission, and Performance


      The 380-hp supercharged V-6 is king of the XF power-train monarchy, but it's slower than most high-performance rivals and lacks auditory authority. 

      A pair of smooth turbo four-cylinders provide alternative propulsion choices. 

      2020 Jaguar XF

      Every engine pairs with a great eight-speed automatic transmission; a torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system is available, too. 

      The four-cylinder is much quieter than the supercharged alternative. Its acceleration times, though, are much slower than those of comparable rivals.

      2020 Jaguar XF

      A supple suspension delivers fluid handling along with an exceptional ride quality that reflects Jaguar's sophisticated image. 

      The XF also boasts a quiet, compliant ride and steering that adeptly transitioned between low-speed lightness and high-speed heft. 

      The brake pedal felt soft and had a gradual response on the 2017 XF S. The lack of pedal feedback was only concerning on the S model, which also has the longest braking distance at 180 feet.

      2020 Jaguar XF

      Interior, Infotainment, and Cargo

      Thoughtfully laid out, pleasingly spacious, and integrating several cool features, the XF's interior has most of the trappings of high society. 

      But less-than-luxurious leather quality and limited standard equipment clash with Jaguar's otherwise palatial presentation.

       When you power up the XF, it's a theatrical experience to watch its rotary shifter knob rise from the center console and the outboard air vents rotate open. 

      2020 Jaguar XF

      2020 Jaguar XF

      These trick features, plus touch-sensitive map lights and dual-zone climate control, are standard fare. However, the leather surfaces looked mediocre and felt coarse. 

      The fire-engine-red leather interior was overwhelming, and the black-on-red seats looks, well, tacky.

      2020 Jaguar XF Interior | Jaguar XF Dimensions, Jaguar XF Design
      2020 Jaguar XF

      2020 Jaguar XF

      Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

      The XF hasn't been crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). 

      However, the Jaguar sedan has some standard driver-assistance technology along with a satisfying selection of optional safety equipment. 

      2020 Jaguar XF


      Key features include:

      •  Available forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
      •  Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
      •  Available lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist

      • 2020 Jaguar XF
      • Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

      Jaguar bestows the XF with warranty coverage that is above average in this segment. 

      It also has one of the longest complimentary scheduled maintenance periods.

      2020 Jaguar XF

       Limited warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles

      •  Powertrain warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles
      •  Complimentary maintenance is covered for 5 years or 60,000 miles.
      • 2020 Jaguar XF





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      Wednesday, September 9, 2020

      2020 Jaguar F-Pace Review

       

      2020 Jaguar F-Pace

      Overview


      The 2020 Jaguar F-Pace is the luxury automaker's best-selling model, and the crossover helps reinvigorate the brand's previously stodgy image. 

      While Jaguars still sell in relatively low numbers, the F-Pace's flashy appearance and sporty dynamics make the leaping logo more prominent. 

      2020 Jaguar F-Pace

      Its power-train options are highlighted by a mighty supercharged V-6, and every model is legitimately enjoyable to drive. It also possesses useful cargo storage and a bevy of desirable features. 

      Unfortunately, its interior lacks cubby storage and the infotainment system is notoriously finicky. Still, the 2020 F-Pace is among the most alluring and exciting mid-size luxury crossovers out there.

      2020 Jaguar F-Pace

      What's New for 2020?

      For 2020, Jaguar only makes minor changes to the F-Pace lineup. Every model now comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. 

      There are also two new limited editions: the Checkered Flag Special Edition and the 300 Sport. 

      2020 Jaguar F-Pace

      The former is fitted with the less powerful four-cylinder engine and wears gloss-black trim and other unique details inside and out. 

      The latter features the more powerful four-cylinder along with dark-gray exterior bits and upgraded interior materials and equipment.

      2020 Jaguar F-PACE Prices, Reviews, and Pictures | Edmunds
      2020 Jaguar F-Pace

      Pricing and Which One to Buy

      •  25t F-Pace: $46,225
      •  25t Premium: $48,825
      •  25t Prestige: $53,225
      •  25t R-Sport: $57,525
      •  S: $63,125
      •  30t Portfolio: $64,625

        Jaguar only offers its supercharged V-6 on the F-Pace S, which costs more coin than I'd want to pay. 

        The rest of the lineup gets the 247- or 296-hp turbo four-cylinder. Since the latter improves acceleration and doesn't sacrifice fuel efficiency, I'd choose the more powerful engine.

        2020 Jaguar F-Pace

        Pair that with the Prestige trim level that has standard luxuries such as nicer dash materials, power-adjustable steering column, built-in navigation, mobile hotspot, and passive entry.

        While I could be convinced to upgrade to the 20-inch wheels, I'd definitely avoid the 22-inchers that hurt the ride. 

        I'd also add automatic high-beams and the Drive Pack (blind-spot monitoring, high-speed automated emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology. 

        These help maintain the Jag's sophisticated image and make the driver's experience less taxing.

        2019 Jaguar F-PACE SVR | Jaguar suv, Jaguar, Porsche macan turbo
        2020 Jaguar F-Pace

        Engine, Transmission, and Performance


        Every 2020 F-Pace features a prudent eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Its engine lineup includes a standard turbocharged four-cylinder that makes either 246 or 296 horsepower. 


        The F-Pace's supercharged V-6 is the engine to get, rips from zero to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. The standard turbocharged four-cylinder isn't terrible. 

        It's offered in 247-hp or 296-hp potencies and badged as 25t and 30t, respectively, but it's not as refined as the turbo fours in the BMW X3 or the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

        2020 Jaguar F-Pace

        Jaguar intentionally tunes the F-Pace's suspension on the firm side for a sporty feel. The ride is never harsh, although the larger available wheel sizes (Jaguar offers up to 22-inch-diameter wheels) can add some jiggle to the suspension's movements over bumps. 

        Regardless of model, every F-Pace's steering setup is quick and delivers confidence-inspiring feedback from the front tires to the driver's hands. Driven quickly, the F-Paces sharp responses are genuinely impressive and make this Jaguar crossover truly fun to drive.

        2020 Jaguar F-Pace

        Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

        Even in its most powerful S trim level, the F-Pace's EPA city and highway fuel-economy estimates are on par with the figures of most of its six-cylinder competitors. 

        Believe it or not, its turbocharged four-cylinder earns the same 22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway ratings despite their power disparity.

        2020 Jaguar F-Pace

         

        On our 200-mile highway fuel-economy route, the last four-cylinder F-Pace we tested achieved 26 mpg. 

        The supercharged V-6 model is rated at 18 mpg city and 23 highway, and it missed the latter estimate by 1 mpg in our real-world test.

        2020 Jaguar F-Pace

        Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

        In keeping with Jaguar's lineup-wide minimalist interior aesthetic, the F-Pace's cabin features simple detailing, easy-to-reach secondary controls, and lots of window area for enhanced visibility. 

        You sit high in both the front and rear seats, and the driver is treated to an excellent seating position, square to the steering wheel and pedals. 

        2020 Jaguar F-Pace

        The F-Pace's front-seat legroom and headroom measurements are among the roomiest in this class, while the aft quarters are merely average. 


        Large climate-control buttons are easy to use, and the central touchscreen display is only a slight reach for either occupant of the front seat. 

        2020 Jaguar F-Pace

        However, the rotary dial for the gearshift uses up valuable real estate on the center console, space that could be used instead for cup-holders or storage. 


        Aside from its relative lack of cubby space for front-seat passengers, the F-Pace's cargo-hauling capabilities are far greater than its sexy styling would suggest. 

        2020 Jaguar F-Pace

        Release handles in the trunk and atop each rear seat-back lowers the 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats to a nearly flat position. Doing so creates room for up to 22 carry-on suitcases.

        2020 Jaguar F-Pace: 206 Interior Photos | U.S. News & World Report
        2020 Jaguar F-Pace

        Infotainment and Connectivity


        Jaguar's touchscreen-based infotainment system, In-Control Touch Pro, distills core functions into simple, well-arranged menus, and it looks slick. 

        2020 Jaguar F-Pace

        In practice, the system was buggy and prone to malfunction. Every F-Pace comes standard with a 10-inch touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 380-watt Meridian audio system; built-in navigation and a mobile hotspot also are available.

        2020 Jaguar F-Pace

        Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

        The F-Pace hasn't been crash-tested by either U.S. agency that conducts these evaluations. 

        Still, buyers who want the latest safety and driver assists still have a satisfying selection of choices, including a generous suite of standard driver-assistance technology and several high-tech options. 

        Key safety features include:

        •  Standard forward collision-warning and automated emergency braking
        •  Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
        •  Standard adaptive cruise control
        • 2020 Jaguar F-Pace
          Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

        In its attempt to turn around public perception of the brand's historically rocky reliability, Jaguar provides warranty coverage that tops the segment. 

        The highlight is Jaguar's lengthy complimentary scheduled maintenance program.

        • Limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
        • Power-train warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
        • Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for five years or 60,000 miles.

        • 2020 Jaguar F-Pace





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