One plugged-in cat
Jaguar I-Pace five-door hatchback is strong, powerful
This cat is electric. Stylish and sophisticated, the Jaguar I-Pace EV HSE is a five-door hatchback SUV that is strong and powerful. The 394hp electric motor delivers instant power and will push you into the seat when you get on the accelerator while offering an exhilarating and sporty ride.
With a 234-mile range at an average of 76 MPGe, the all-wheel drive Jaguar can be driven in several modes, from Eco through Dynamic, before needing a recharge. Like its fossil fuel brethren, the car turns into nothing short of a sports car in Dynamic mode, although it does drain the battery more quickly.
Part eye candy and part aerodynamics, the rakish body makes the SUV a head-turner. Well-placed creases, polished black accent moulding and grille, 20-inch alloy wheels with low-profile tires and LED lights all set the tone for an upscale driving experience. The slightly rounded hood and swept-back windscreen hint at the Jag’s heritage and racing spirit.
The car handles like a charm with several adjustable suspension settings while the AWD gives the car a nice grip on the road. After you slide into the luxurious leather-clad, bolstered seats you’ll note the center stack shares many similar display features as its cousin, the Land Rover. This is where you find your touch screens for the drive and suspension settings along with the preprogrammed options for different weather conditions and terrains.
The I-Pace can handle some light off-roading with its adjustable height option, although I’d recommend popping on more suitable tires than the nifty Goodyear Eagle Sports we tested the car with.
The Meridian Stereo system is the centerpiece of the upper display and the sound is particularly impressive since it’s not competing with any engine noise. The panoramic roof gives the cabin a nice roomy feel for five adults and the powered rear hatch easily accommodated golf clubs and camera gear.
Electric car prices still command a premium, and the Jaguar’s base is $69,850. Our test model was optioned up with myriad safety features that you’d expect in a luxury vehicle and rang in at $81,925.
The field for luxury EVs continues to expand with Tesla, Audi, Porsche and BMW offering super-high-end cars while the Jaguar competes with all of them with its excellent build and refinements. MSRP: $69, 850 As tested: $81,925 Range/Mileage: 234 miles/76MPGe