For those that have been around for a while, like myself, when hearing the name “Jaguar”, it’s immediately associated with a handsome sedan, coupé, or convertible. With the brand’s storied history of English design, luxury and performance, there has always been much to be excited about. Today, Jaguar fans have a choice of the above as well as three crossovers, one of them being fully electric. Here we find ourselves behind the wheel of the 2021 Jaguar F-Pace P250 AWD, to find out what this five-seat luxury crossover has to offer.
Right off the bat, the F-Pace is a very attractive machine. The optional Portofino Blue paint, for $800, looks stunning and just sparkles in the sunlight. Tweaks to the exterior on the 2021 model include a new headlight design, refreshed front and rear bumpers, and the hood has been modified slightly for a more aggressive look. The black exterior package on our tester removes all the chrome for a sportier look, as well, and 20-inch five-spoke wheels fit the arches perfectly. Buyers looking to ball out further can option 21 or 22 inch wheels, too.
Jump inside the 2021 Jaguar F-Pace and drivers will find a well crafted and designed interior, heavily updated for 2021. Quality materials are used throughout and exactly what’s expected of something with the Jaguar name even with being at the lower end of the F-Pace model range. The two tone Caraway leather dashboard feels as good as it looks. Hard plastics are used sparingly and owners will literally have to hunt for it within the cabin.
Jaguar’s latest infotainment user interface is called Pivi Pro, and this is a massive improvement from the previous setup. The look is clean but will take some time getting used to as it’s not as straightforward as some of its direct competition. There is some lag when executing commands, but Pivi does allow for over-the-air updates. The 11.4-inch touchscreen is situated well within reach, and offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. Users won’t have to worry about any gimmicky dials or touchpads, making for a clean look throughout the interior. Those seated inside are well insulated from the outside world ‘s noises, with impeccably quiet road manners.
Under the hood of this P250 model is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, a serious departure from the V12s that graced classic models from Jaguar. This base engine puts out 247 horsepower at 5,500RPM and 269 lb-ft. of torque between 1,300 and 4,500RPM, which is more than adequate. With torque available down low, the F-Pace jumps off the line with authority. The engine feels eager and smooth with the exception of the drone that seeps inside. An eight speed automatic does a good job working with the standard all-wheel-drive system, and makes for a 0-100km/h run of 7.3 seconds.
For purists, however, the F-Pace SVR still exists, with its supercharged V8. The 2021 Jaguar F-Pace P250 AWD still does a fine job in the twisties and is surprisingly composed for its size. To be honest, it drives like a much smaller crossover, which makes it nimbler and more fun, giving drivers a level of confidence that is missing in this segment.
Jaguar Canada rates the F-Pace P250 at 10.7L/100km in the city and 8.8L/100km on the highway. Our test consisted of 85% city driving in heavy traffic, with liberal use of the air conditioner and ventilated seats. We achieved 10.9L/100km over our test week, which is not unreasonable. Of course, 91-octane premium fuel is required for the large 82-liter tank.
Pricing for the 2021 F-Pace starts at $60,350, and as tested our kitty came in at $70,270 before fees and taxes. The more powerful R-Dynamic model bumps the starting price to $73,650., and those looking for the top of the line fire-breathing F-Pace SVR will need to open up their wallets to the starting price of $96,250. Of course, for over 500 horsepower, buyers will have to pay to play.
From a luxury perspective, the 2021 Jaguar F-Pace P250 AWD hits a majority of its targets. This specific model may not have the power that aficionados and enthusiasts demand, but they do have options if they are willing to open their wallets. For those stepping into their first Jaguar, owners will be pleasantly surprised with something different from what Japanese, American and German luxury automakers have to offer.
