2023 Jaguar F-Pace Review: Big Brit Is Outclassed By The Germans
If you've got a hankering for a premium compact SUV that's both sporty and distinctive, perhaps the 2023 Jaguar F-Pace is for you. The handsome Brit isn't as obvious a choice as German rivals like the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC, but the Jag has plenty of alluring attributes.
Three models are on offer ranging in price from around $52k for the base model, to the near-$65k R-Dynamic S at the top end of the range. The two base models gain motivation from a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 246 horsepower. The R-Dynamic S receives a mellifluous 395-hp 3.0-liter inline-six with a mild-hybrid setup. Regardless of the chosen power plant, the F-Pace will put a smile on your face. The JLR D7a platform - shared with the Range Rover Velar and Jaguar XF - provides sharp handling characteristics and plenty of dynamism. The ride, however, errs on the firm side. Facelifted for the 2021 model year, the big cat is fresher than ever before - but so is the very capable competition. Is it still worth looking at in this hotly contested segment?
What's the Price of the 2023 Jaguar F-Pace?
The entry-level Jaguar F-Pace P250 AWD boasts a starting MSRP of $52,400. The price of the Jaguar F-Pace P250 S increases to $56,000. The P400 R-Dynamic S tops the range off with its starting price of $64,800. These prices exclude a destination charge of $1,275. A lot comes as standard in the F-Pace, but if you want the full-house package, you'll need to stretch your wallet out, as this may increase the price to well over $100,000.
2023 F-Pace Exterior
Dimensions
| Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 186.9 in | 113.2 in | 65.5 in | 81.5 in | 64.6 in | 65.2 in | 4,015.0 lbs |
2023 F-Pace Performance
2023 Jaguar F-Pace Handling And Driving Impressions
It's through the corners where the F-Pace comes alive. For a tall and heavy SUV, the Jaguar F-Pace is entertaining when pushed on, and dances through the bends in a way that some competitors cannot. The Jaguar would struggle to keep up with a Porsche Macan, but it's a fine match for the BMW X3 and easily outclasses the Mercedes GLC-Class and Audi A5 for sheer dynamism. Thanks to standard all-wheel drive, there is plenty of grip, but push it hard, and the 2023 F-Pace has a tendency to oversteer. Those who are used to a softer ride may not gel with the firmer setup in the Jaguar. It's not intolerable, but the suspension has got a harder edge than most vehicles in this class.
In day-to-day driving, it copes admirably. Both the engine options are nicely hushed and contribute to the overall feeling of harmony. In traffic, the eight-speed automatic transmission swaps cogs with ruthless efficiency and allow the F-Pace to move about with aplomb. The P250 engine, with 246 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque, should provide ample motivation for most, but it simply can't match the aural drama provided by the P400 (395 hp/406 lb-ft) and its wonderful six-cylinder engine. There's also a supercharged V8 on offer in the P550 SVR derivative, but this high-performance Jaguar F-Pace gets a separate review.
2023 F-Pace Interior
2023 F-Pace Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
| Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | 6 Years / Unlimited Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles |
Verdict: Is The 2023 Jaguar F-Pace A Good SUV?
The premium compact SUV class is, perhaps, one of the most important segments for luxury automakers. It comes as no surprise that these respective automakers put their best foot forward, resulting in near-perfect products like the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and the Mercedes-Benz GLC. While the new Jaguar F-Pace SUV is a great car - it's wonderful to drive, looks brilliant, and stands out from the crowd - it's admittedly outclassed in this category. Yes, the recent facelift brought it back into contention, but it falls short in several key areas. It's not quite as comfortable as the Mercedes, nor is it as well-built as the Q5. And, while it's a dynamic delight, it's not any better than the BMW X3 and is outclassed by the Macan. Yes, the Jaguar is very distinctive, but so is the Alfa Romeo Stelvio - and that has a considerably lower starting price.
It would be untrue to say the F-Pace isn't a good car. It's very good. The problem, however, is that the Jaguar F-Pace's competitors are just that bit more polished. That being said, if you're looking for a premium SUV with sharp handling and distinctive looks, the 2023 F-Pace is worth considering.
What 2023 Jaguar F-Pace Model Should I Buy?
While it's always nice to consider the flagship, the sweet spot in the F-Pace range used to be the P340 S trim, but it was discontinued for the 2023 model year. If you're hell-bent on a straight-six powertrain with the brand's MHEV tech, the top-spec P400 R-Dynamic S is the one to go for. That model gets a branded leather steering wheel, but the main improvements are to the power plant. The P250 S isn't a downgrade in terms of luxury and comfort, and it comes with perforated leather, traffic sign recognition, adaptive speed limits, and the upgraded Pivi Pro infotainment system. You sacrifice a whack of horsepower, though.