Jaguar is pull the wraps off its new baby SUV
called the E-Pace, bringing the fight to models like the Mercedes GLA,
the BMW X1 and of course its cousin, the Range Rover Evoque. After all, the new
addition in the Jaguar lineup is based on the same platform with both the
Evoque and the Land Rover Discovery Sport and will be offered in front- and
all-wheel drive versions.
Getting back to the crossover itself, the E-Pace
will slot below the F-Pace and become the brand's entry-level crossover.
Starting with the exterior, the E-Pace has a bold front fascia which draws
inspiration from the F-Type. Moving further back, there's front fender vents, a
dynamic greenhouse, and optional 21-inch alloy wheels. Buyers will also find
slender taillights and a body-color, black contrast, or panoramic glass roof.
The interior is a little tight but it comes nicely
equipped with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Noble Chrome accents, and a
10-inch Touch Pro infotainment system with voice control technology. Other
highlights include four 12-volt charging outlets, five USB ports, and 577
liters of cargo capacity.
A variety of different options will be available
including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and two premium Meridian audio
systems. Buyers can also order a heads-up display and a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot that
supports up to eight devices.
Under the hood, a variety of 2.0-liter four-cylinder
engines will be available. The two gasoline units will have outputs of 249 PS and 365 Nm of torque as well as 300 PS and 400 Nm of torque.
The entry-level diesel model has 150 PS and
380 Nm of torque, while the mid-range variant develops 180 PS and 430 Nm of torque. Last but not least, there's a
range-topping diesel with 240 PS and 500 Nm of torque.
Depending on which engine is selected, it can be
connected to either a six-speed manual or a nine-speed automatic gearbox.
Rear-wheel drive will come standard in the U.K. but all U.S. models will come
equipped with all-wheel drive.
On the safety front, the E-Pace will be offered with
an assortment of driver assistance systems including an Adaptive Speed Limiter,
Lane Keep Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, and an Emergency Braking system
with pedestrian detection. The crossover can also be equipped with a new
Forward Traffic Detection system that warns drivers about approaching vehicles
at intersections where visibility is limited.
Pricing starts at US$ 38,600 in the United States and
£ 28,500 in the United Kingdom.
