Jaguar’s medium-sized F-Pace SUV arrived in 2016 just as the SUV market gained momentum and it quickly became the local importers top seller.  Today, its Jaguar’s second best seller behind the newer smaller E-Pace model. There is nine petrol and 10 diesel F-Pace Jaguar’s to choose from, too many in my opinion. And of course some come in rear drive and some in all-wheel drive. I tested the higher output 25D 2.0-litre 177kW R-Sport diesel AWD priced at $87,035 – a four-cylinder twin-turbo diesel. The monocoque construction of the F-Pace provides a stiff platform for the sportier and tauter R-Sport chassis and while ride is comfortable on a smooth surface it can get a little harsh on broken surfaces despite the fitment of excellent 55-series tyres. The F-Pace’s structure is a lightweight design comprising 80 percent aluminium and it equates on road to a fleet footed SUV with a premium feel – this higher capacity diesel engine mates to an 8-speed ZF automatic with paddles  – I managed 6.8L/100 from the twin-turbo which is just as happy at low speeds or when called on for performance. The lightweight nature of the Jaguar F-Pace keeps pitch to a low level on varying surfaces and my wife from the passenger seat commented on its overall stability in corners which helps in the comfort stakes. All in all a really nice premium SUV with the only downside finding the right model SUV for your needs without a stack of expensive options.

I’m David Berthon

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