At its launch, aside from the Tesla Model X, it was the only premium electric SUV on the market
What is it?
It might only seem five minutes since Jaguar’s radical I-Pace EV went on sale, but impressively four years have now passed since then. At its launch, aside from the Tesla Model X, it was the only premium electric SUV on the market, but change has been rapid in the EV market, with this Jaguar now facing tough competition from Audi, BMW and Mercedes, among others.
So can the I-Pace still hold its ground in this particularly competitive segment? Let’s take a look.
What’s new?
Jaguar has only made quite light tweaks to the I-Pace since its initial launch, though they have been quite well-focused. An upgraded 11kW onboard charger helps to reduce charging times, while the brand’s latest Pivi Pro touchscreen infotainment system elevating the interior quality.
The latest update has seen the addition of Amazon Alexa, which even applies to older I-Paces thanks to over-the-air updates, while a ‘Premium Black’ package has brought a stealthier look thanks to a range of gloss black elements.
What’s under the bonnet?
Just a single powertrain is available with the I-Pace, which combines twin electric motors with a large 90kWh battery. Putting out an impressive 396bhp and 696Nm of torque, this Jaguar can get from 0-60mph in just 4.5 seconds and hit a top speed of 124mph.
The I-Pace also offers a claimed range of between 277 and 287 miles, depending on version, which is more than the Audi e-tron and Mercedes EQC, and very similar to the BMW iX3. The I-Pace can charge at up to 100kW, allowing a 20-80 per cent charge to take place in 40 minutes.
What’s it like to drive?
The I-Pace is impressively rapid off the line, comfortably able to keep up with many performance cars off the line. But unlike other EVs, this Jaguar remains accomplished through the corners and is among one of the best electric cars on the market in this respect, and especially for an SUV. It’s very comfortable and refined too, and though Jaguar offers adaptive air suspension, the ride is still credible on the standard setup.
Thanks to Jaguar’s alignment with Land Rover, the I-Pace also uses some of its off-roading knowhow. Granted, it’s not a proper ‘4x4’, but if you want to take your car off the beaten track, this is a safe choice.
How does it look?
Though classed as an SUV, the I-Pace has a sleeker, almost hatchback-like bodystyle. It sits lower to the ground than models like the Mercedes EQC, while its raked roofline adds to the sporty character of this Jaguar.
There are some very smart details on it too, including the LED lights, simple grille (it’s not as fussy as many of its rivals) and a great choice when it comes to colours and alloy wheels.
What’s it like inside?
The I-Pace’s interior is a very pleasant place to spend time, and feels very classy with its combination of leather and aluminium detailing. There’s plenty of technology on show too, such as digital dials, a large touchscreen (much-improved with Jaguar’s latest software) and a separate climate screen on higher-spec cars.
Despite the rakish look of the I-Pace, it still offers a practical interior. There’s plenty of room in the back for adults, and in terms of boot space, it measures 577 litres with the rear seats upright and 1,453 litres with them folded.
What’s the spec like?
Prices for the I-Pace kick off from £65,620 for the ‘S’ model, with standard equipment including 19-inch alloy wheels, LED lights, a 10-inch touchscreen and digital dials.
The £70,220 SE brings an electric boot, electric leather seats and a Meridian sound system, while the top-spec HSE model gets Matrix LED headlights, heated and cooled seats and a lower touchscreen for the climate control, and costs from £74,670.
Verdict
Though the I-Pace might not be quite as new as other electric SUVs on the market, this Jaguar is still more than able to hold its own.
With a generous electric range, great driving dynamics and stunning design inside and out, the I-Pace is a seriously impressive choice in this increasingly popular segment.