Three Keywords for the F-Pace

The Jaguar "F-PACE" SUV, which has been attracting attention since its announcement,F-Pacehas finally landed in Japan. Amidst the rising popularity of luxury SUVs, it can be said to be a model that has taken the lead. This model generated significant buzz when it was exhibited at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2015. It's interesting that Jaguar highlights three pillars supporting the F-Pace with rhyming keywords: "Grace," "Pace," and "Space."

The "Grace" of the F-Pace is evident in its stylishness, reminiscent of Jaguar's sedans. Although marketed as an SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle), its elongated roofline and somewhat slender cabin give it a "coupe-like" style, as Jaguar describes it. The interior, also in line with its sedan counterparts, emphasizes quality materials for the dashboard and seats, further conveying a sense of elegance.

Then there's "Space" – the interior room. It's more than sufficient for four adults. The front seats offer a sense of spaciousness due to their slightly elevated seating position. The rear seats are notably generous, with ample headroom and legroom, making it feel like a rear-seat-focused design. Opting for the glass roof further enhances the sense of openness in the rear. The feeling of a vast sky overhead can be likened to a new generation of limousine.

And finally, "Pace." Speed is a significant part of the F-Pace's appeal. The Japanese specifications offer three engine options: a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder diesel, and two 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engines (340 hp and 380 hp versions). All of these power units have already been featured in Japan for models like theXEandXF, as well as the sports carF-TYPE. All of them are remarkably refined and, despite the large body measuring 4,740mm in length, possess more than sufficient power. Some even offer surplus power, a feeling of abundant strength.

The "F-Pace 20 d" with the diesel engine was particularly impressive.

Sharp Acceleration That Conveys True "Pace"

The F-Pace 20 d's powertrain is the same new-generation Jaguar sedan engine previously featured in the "XE 20 d" and "XF 20 d." The torque figure of 430 Nm, remarkable for a 2.0-liter engine, feels accurate. That power left a strong impression, and the F-Pace also made a very favorable one.

Much of the F-Pace 20 d's charm comes from its quiet, smooth, and refined 2.0-liter engine. It's quiet from the moment it starts, making you forget you're driving a diesel. The smooth takeoff is understandable given that peak torque is delivered from 1,750 rpm. The way it revs so effortlessly during acceleration is captivating.

The newly designed 4-cylinder Ingenium unit is programmed to maintain around 2,000 rpm during driving, even with the accelerator almost fully released. When you press the accelerator from there, the responsiveness of the acceleration is truly exhilarating. The joy of it revving up to around 5,000 rpm and the sharpness of the acceleration vividly convey a sense of true "pace."

The handling is surprisingly sharp, making winding roads its forte. All F-Pace models are all-wheel drive, but the torque distribution, which typically sends 90 percent to the rear wheels, likely contributes to its natural feel. The steering response is precise, and the quick acceleration in response to throttle input allows for enjoyable sporty driving. It makes you understand Jaguar's claim that "German cars were born on the Autobahn, while British cars were born on winding roads."

The official fuel economy is a good 15.8 km/liter. It's suitable for those who enjoy golf or families who love travel. Prices start at 6.39 million yen for the base "Pure" grade. It's a worthwhile purchase.

The V6 model, with its powerful and slightly "wicked" character in addition to its refinement, offered a different kind of allure.

An Imposing Presence in Black

The Jaguar F-Pace's strength lies in its multifaceted nature. Unlike the F-Pace 20 d with its 2.0-liter diesel engine, which balances smooth driving with practicality and fuel efficiency for family and business use, there's also a model that excels in powerful and sporty handling. This is the "F-Pace S," equipped with a 380 hp engine.

The test model featured a flake-infused black paint called "Ultimate Black," with the grille, wheels, and various body parts almost entirely in black. Given the vehicle's dimensions – 4,740mm length, 1,935mm width, and 1,665mm height – it commands a significant presence.

The actual driving experience matches the exterior's promise. With a maximum output of 280 kW (380 ps) and peak torque of 450 Nm at 3,500 rpm, its initial acceleration is potent. Despite weighing 1,980 kg, the vehicle doesn't feel heavy. The maximum output is achieved at 6,500 rpm, suggesting it's a powerband-focused engine, but the throttle response feels agile at any rev range.

This is likely thanks to the supercharger. The engine note is a crisp, popping sound. Especially when selecting "Dynamic" mode and shifting to S mode, the exhilarating exhaust note further enhances the driving pleasure.

Perhaps due to the high-performance P Zero tires, it corners with satisfying precision. While not quite a sports car, the steering input is minimal, and the way the long nose smoothly turns into the corner is a delightful sensation.

During high-speed cornering, torque vectoring engages, providing near-neutral turning characteristics. It's enough to make you remember that the "S" in "SUV" stands for Sport. The price is 9.81 million yen, considerably higher than the 20 d (for example, the well-equipped "Prestige" is 6.63 million yen), but it meets the expectations of customers seeking something exceptional.

Jaguar F-Pace 20 d | Jaguar F-Pace 20 d
Body Size | Length 4,740 x Width 1,935 x Height 1,665 mm
Wheelbase | 2,875 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,640 / 1,655 mm
Weight | 1,920 kg
Engine | 1,999cc Inline 4-cylinder DOHC Turbocharged
Bore x Stroke | 83.0 x 92.4 mm
Max Output | 132 kW (180 ps) / 4,000 rpm
Max Torque | 430 Nm (43.8 kgm) / 1,750 - 2,500 rpm
Transmission | 8-speed AT
Drivetrain | 4WD
0-100 km/h Acceleration | 8.7 seconds
Top Speed | 208 km/h
Min. Turning Radius | 5.6 meters
Ground Clearance | 215 mm
Trunk Capacity | 508 liters
Fuel Economy (JC08 Mode) | 15.8 km/ℓ
CO2 Emissions | 139 g/km
Price | (Pure) 6.39 million yen (Prestige) 6.63 million yen (R-Sport) 7.28 million yen

Jaguar F-Pace S | Jaguar F-Pace S
Body Size | Length 4,740 x Width 1,935 x Height 1,665 mm
Wheelbase | 2,875 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,640 / 1,655 mm
Weight | 1,980 kg
Engine | 2,994cc V6 DOHC Supercharged
Bore x Stroke | 84.5 x 89.0 mm
Max Output | 280 kW (380 ps) / 6,500 rpm
Max Torque | 450 Nm (45.9 kgm) / 3,500 rpm
Transmission | 8-speed AT
Drivetrain | 4WD
0-100 km/h Acceleration | 5.5 seconds
Top Speed | 250 km/h
Min. Turning Radius | 5.6 meters
Ground Clearance | 215 mm
Trunk Capacity | 508 liters
Fuel Economy (JC08 Mode) | 10.1 km/ℓ
CO2 Emissions | 209 g/km
Price | 9.81 million yen