Enticing driving demeanor, distinct exterior design and refined interior - 2023 Jaguar I-Pace Review
0Overview
As the auto industry continues its gradual transition from internal combustion engines to battery packs, competition among EVs intensifies, and early entrants can start to fall behind. The 2023 Jaguar I-Pace, for instance, is now in its fifth model year, and there are fresher offerings that have greater range or quicker charge times or more performance. But the I-Pace is an automobile that speaks to the heart more so than the mind. Its enticing driving demeanor, distinct exterior design, and refined interior keep this Jag in the mix. Technological features—such as a Meridian sound system, 10-inch infotainment display, driver-assistance features, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto—complete the package. While the Jag might not place very high in our 2023 rankings it’s still a very pleasant vehicle.
What's New for 2023?
Jaguar has graced the I-Pace with a few small yet notable updates for the 2023 model year, including the re-introduction of a performance seat option, which is available in three different colorways: Ebony, Light Oyster, or Mars Red. Additionally, the I-Pace becomes the first-ever Jaguar to feature built-in Amazon Alexa voice control. Aside from that, Jag makes wireless charging standard for the electric crossover.
The I-Pace is only offered in the previously top-of-the-line HSE trim. However, its price is closer to that of the discontinued base model. The HSE comes standard with an array of active safety features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, and it also sports a powerful premium audio system, a head-up display, leather upholstery, 16-way power front seats with heated and cooled cushions, a power-operated liftgate, and 20-inch wheels.
EV Motor, Power, and Performance
The I-Pace boasts standard all-wheel drive thanks to two electric motors that produce a combined 394 horsepower and 512 pound-feet of torque. That energy provides quick and effortless acceleration to zip between city stoplights and pass slowpokes on the highway. The I-Pace has a comfortable ride courtesy of its standard air suspension as well as satisfying steering feedback. A hefty battery pack beneath the floor provides a low center of gravity that gives the electrified Jag an extra dose of agility and stability. While the version we tested was unquestionably fun to drive, its uneven braking behavior when coming to a stop was a shortcoming.
Range, Charging, and Battery Life
The 2023 I-Pace features a 90.0-kWh battery pack that provides an EPA-rated driving range of up to 246 miles per full charge. For comparison, the Audi e-tron has an estimated range of up to 226 miles and the Tesla Model X is expected to travel up to 348 miles. The electric Jag includes a standard DC fast-charging port that allows 80 percent of its battery to be replenished in as little as 40 minutes. Those without access to the fastest charging option will have to wait a claimed 8.6 hours to fully replenish the battery using the more common 240-volt AC outlet. This is an improvement over earlier models, which required almost 13 hours to charge this way. The difference? Jaguar upgraded the I-Pace's onboard charger from a 7.0-kW unit to one with 11.0 kilowatts in 2022.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe
Government estimates for the 2023 I-Pace vary depending on wheel size. Models equipped with 20-inch wheels are expected to get up to 85 combined MPGe with 89 in the city and 82 on the highway. Models equipped with larger 22-inch wheels earned a lower rating of 76 MPGe with 79 in the city and 72 on the highway. While such efficiency ratings are comparable to those of the e-Tron, they're considerably lower than for the Model X. The last I-Pace we ran on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, achieved 64 MPGe—8 below its own highway rating and 3 MPGe less than the e-tron earned. For the record, we haven't tested a Model X on our real-world route. For more information about the I-Pace's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Jaguar complements the I-Pace's stylish exterior with a sophisticated cabin that boasts a flashy dashboard and ample passenger space. While the front seats are nicely bolstered, they're not the most comfortable on prolonged trips. Of course, the I-Pace can be outfitted with many desirable features such as performance front seats, four-zone climate control, a head-up display, heated front and rear seats, various choices of leather upholstery, and more. Its cubby storage is highlighted by a versatile center console that features a useful bin under the armrest and a tray below the center stack. In the back, we managed to fit seven carry-on suitcases in the cargo area and 18 with the rear seats folded.