Review of 2022 Jaguar F-Pace showcases improved features and driving prowess

Upgraded tech and refined interior changes for Jaguar’s prestige F-Pace SUV.

Remember the leaper? The bounding big cat that adorned Jaguar bonnets is long gone, and seeming so are the spectacular sedans.

Last year’s Australian sales figures paint a bleak picture for the ‘notchbacks’ – and hatches for that matter. SUVs more than doubled passenger car sales in 2021.

Jaguar is the perfect example of the automotive sector’s photosynthesis. It’s two SUVs accounted for nearly 80 per cent of its total sales.

The F-Pace is the larger of Jag’s SUV pairing and it looks the prestige part.

Launched eight years ago to battle the likes of BMW’s X5 and the Mercedes-Benz GLE, it’s jbeen on the receiving end of a refresh.

Drive-away prices start from about $87k for the four cylinder petrol model, but we sampled the only diesel derivative in the F-Pace range which can be in traffic for just under $120,000.

The Jaguar F-Pace R-Dynamic SE D300 starts from about $120,000 drive-away.

VALUE

There are four specification rungs, and the SE sits one above the entry level S in a dramatically simplified line-up which once numbered 16 models.

Across all variants there are strong basic feature levels, with the highlights a 11.4-inch touchscreen inclusive of smartphone mirroring apps, push-button start, perforated leather seats available in black, beige or red (for no extra cost) and a full digital driver’s display.

Like all Jaguar and Land Rover products, there are options aplenty. Set aside a block of time to get through the brochure – you can create a Jag like no other.

Our test F-Pace boasted nearly $20k worth of extras, including an upgraded 400-watt Meridian stereo for $1560, tinted glass at $950, panoramic sunroof that is $4420, 18-way heated and ventilated seats with massage function for $3094 and brake calipers painted red for $806.

Colour options are white, black, red, two shades of blue, silver and grey without altering the bottom line, but there are two premium metallic shades of grey for $510. Those wanting something really exclusive can opt for the SVO premium palette where it can add an extra $11,050 (plus $5950 if you want the matte finish).

Warranty coverage meets the mainstream standard of five years and unlimited kilometres, but Jaguar also offers roadside assistance for the same period.

A service plan covering five years or 130,000km is $2650.

Sterling the bulldog with the Jaguar F-Pace R-Dynamic SE D300.

SAFETY

Achieving a five-star rating in 2017, the criteria has since become dramatically tougher but Jaguar has also significantly improved its technical equipment.

Modern expectations are met with autonomous emergency braking which can apply the anchors if the driver fails to act, as well as lane keeping to ensure the F-Pace stays within the road lines.

Other inclusions are a rear traffic collision monitor which watches for vehicles when you’re reversing and can apply the brakes to avoid a bingle, adaptive cruise control to manage acceleration and braking in traffic, as well as a traffic sign recognition function which keeps a constant eye on the speed zone.

One addition was the head-up display which projects the speed, cruise control details and satnav directions onto the windscreen. That was part of a $2480 tech pack which also includes wireless phone charging and a UV rays reducing windscreen … but the display really should be standard on a vehicle worth $120k.

Highlights of the Jaguar F-Pace R-Dynamic include a refined touchscreen design and digital instruments for the driver.

COMFORT

Quiet and refined, the F-Pace delivers an outstanding combination of performance and ride compliance.

Yet it’s the cabin improvements which now has the Jag equal, if not ahead, of German rivals.

The new high definition curved touchscreen is brilliant, and together with the driver’s digital display the design feels and looks cutting edge.

Fast access to the aircon controls is available via buttons and dials on the dash while infotainment and various settings are within menus via the screen.

The aforementioned massage chairs may be an extravagance, but they’re awesome with a range of options including wave, lumbar or shoulders (as well as varying degrees of firmness).

For two adults rear head and legroom is reasonable – although the swooping external lines mean the latter is impeded. Three burly blokes would be a stretch, but children have ample space.

Practical areas are also covered with dual cupholders in the console and door slots for bottles. The rear seat folds in a 40-20-40 configuration which is great for various sporting equipment like bikes and boards.

More than 1000km of driving saw the Jaguar F-Pace R-Dynamic SE D300 deliver consumption figures of 7.3L/100km.

DRIVING

Rarely flustered with ample grunt at the ready, the diesel engine is outstandingly strong.

While sitting slightly behind its petrol-powered brethren in a sprint, this diesel feels effortless and quick. Rarely needing to push hard it summits hills and overtakes with ease courtesy of impressive levels of torque along with all-wheel drive power delivery.

Highway travels are smooth while challenge the F-Pace with some twisty stuff and it corners flat with minimal fuss. Minimal body roll is a rare feat in SUVs.

Within urban confines parking is aided by a 360-degree camera, but a 11.95m turning circle can require some extra arm twirling.

Average fuel consumption over more than 100km of varied driving conditions saw average consumption of 7.3L/100km – only slightly above the official figure from Jaguar.

The upgraded 400-watt Meridian stereo adds $1560.

HEAD SAYS

While the F-Type coupe would be atop my list, I wouldn’t fit the groceries in the boot let alone the kids.

HEART SAYS

There’s something special about a Jag. Now I can match the Germans with tech and torque.

The 2022 model Jaguar F-Pace R-Dynamic is a much improved offering.

ALTERNATIVES

Mercedes-Benz GLE 300d $134,300 drive-away

One of the genre’s best performers, boasts a classy cabin and punchy, frugal diesel engine. Powered by a 2.0-litre turbo diesel good for 180kW/500Nm and average fuel consumption of less than seven litres for every 100km.

Genesis GV80 3.0D $111,500 drive-away

A newcomer to the genre, the prestige arm of Hyundai has delivered a value-packed and impressively finished SUV. The dynamics won’t meet the Jag, but still alluring with a 3.0-litre 6-cyl turbo diesel, 204kW/588Nm

VERDICT

This derivative of the F-Pace is the most complete SUV we’ve seen from Jaguar. Diesel may not be preferred for some buys, yet impressive dynamics are assured and this engine is strong, frugal and fun.

Originally published as Review of 2022 Jaguar F-Pace showcases improved features and driving prowess