2021 Jaguar F-Pace | Performance , Design & Technology Details
44Jaguar has given the F-Pace a few visual tweaks for 2021, including a revised grille, a reworked hood, and updated exterior lighting elements. The cabin receives a major upgrade in the form of Jaguar-Land Rover's new Pivi and PiviPro infotainment systems. Their graphics are projected on a large 11.4-inch curved-glass screen mounted just above the climate controls on the F-Pace's dashboard. Heated seats and a 14-speaker stereo are now standard across the lineup. A new turbocharged-and-supercharged 3.0-liter inline-six is now optional; this new engine utilizes a 48-volt starter-generator hybrid system.
We think the turbocharged four-cylinder P250 S offers the best balance of performance and value. Upgrading from the base P250 to the P250 S adds unique 19-inch wheels, a power-operated rear liftgate, handsome leather upholstery stitched in a diamond pattern, the more desirable PiviPro infotainment software with navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and traffic-sign recognition.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Every 2021 F-Pace features an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The engine lineup includes a standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 246 horsepower. The F-Pace is also available with a much more powerful turbocharged-and-supercharged 3.0-liter inline-six that makes either 335- or 395-hp. The standard four-cylinder isn't as refined as the turbo-fours in the BMW X3 or the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class. In our initial test drive with the inline-six, we noted good responses and perky acceleration, but the transmission proved hesitant to downshift for passing power in all but the Sport driving mode. 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.
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. 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. 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. Release handles in the trunk and atop each rear seatback lowers the 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats to a nearly flat position. Doing so created room for up to 22 carry-on suitcases.