The Jaguar E-PACE is the British company’s smallest SUV. Not to be confused with the all-electric I-PACE, it’s a stylish alternative to the BMW X1 and Volvo XC40. With a big boot and bags of onboard technology, as well as a wide range of trim levels and engines on offer, the E-PACE has plenty going for it.
Refreshed cabin is far better than the old E-Pace’s.
Big boot and plenty of interior space.
Clean styling gives it kerb appeal.
By the industry standard measurement, the E-PACE has a 494-litre cargo bay. That’s still competitive for cars in this class and it’s more than enough for day-to-day life. You won’t have any trouble fitting the kids’ school bags in there, put it that way.
In the cabin, the front seats are very spacious. You get plenty of cubby holes and storage bins for loose change, sunglasses and so on, as well as lots of headroom and shoulder space. The rear seats are more cramped, but you can still fit 4 adults in comfort. The central rear seat is a bit too tight for grown-ups, though.
The E-PACE offers you a selection of petrol and diesel engines, and most of those come with mild-hybrid technology to keep fuel consumption low. But if you want economy, the best option is the P300e plug-in hybrid. Officially speaking, it will return 141mpg.
That figure assumes you’ll charge it regularly from the mains, using the 34-mile electric range for short trips and only occasionally calling on the petrol engine for longer journeys. That might be unrealistic for some, but if the car suits your lifestyle you can get impressive fuel consumption figures.
If you do longer distances, consider one of the diesels. The mild-hybrid system helps the D165 MHEV manage between 40.8 and 44.3mpg. But the standard D165 manual is even more efficient, returning 41.4-46.9mpg.
Launched into an ever-growing part of the new car market, the E-PACE faces stiff competition. The biggest rivals include the Range Rover Evoque, with which the E-PACE shares so much, and the Volvo XC40.
The BMW X1 and X2 will appeal to those who enjoy driving, while the Audi Q2 and Q3 are the modern, tech-heavy alternatives. You could also consider the Mercedes-Benz GLA, Lexus UX and even the Volkswagen T-Roc and Tiguan SUVs – all of which offer a premium feel and plenty of equipment. The Mazda CX-30 is also worth a look.
Like all modern cars, the E-PACE is reliable by the standards of 10 or 20 years ago, but the standard 3-year warranty offers peace of mind – which can be extended if you take out a longer lease.
By the industry standard method, the E-PACE’s boot measures at 494 litres. That’s comparable with the BMW X1, which has a similar 505-litre load space.
The E-PACE range has 2 different branches to go down. The standard E-PACE models offer most of the equipment you need, but the R-Dynamic versions have sportier styling and more equipment. With so much choice, you’re almost certain to find an E-PACE leasing deal that suits you.
Front and rear parking sensors are standard across the E-PACE line-up. You also get a reversing camera on every version, but you can upgrade to the 3D Surround Camera, which gives you an overview of the car’s surroundings.
Cute looks and a high-tech cabin will draw people to E-PACE leasing deals. But they’ll sign on the dotted line because it’s a practical, premium alternative to the BMWs, Audis and Mercedes-Benzes that everyone else drives. Like the Volvo XC40, the E-PACE doesn’t quite follow the herd, but it takes its own path in a reassuringly familiar and sensible way.
Ready for a brand-new car with all the latest tech and gadgets? Vanarama offer the best deals across many makes and models, offering both personal and business lease deals.
For a fixed monthly payment, with agreements customised to suit your budget, you could be driving your ideal car in no time. At the end of the contract, simply return the car to us and you’re free to walk away, or upgrade to another brand-new vehicle.
First time leasing? Find out how easy it is to return your vehicles and upgrade to a brand new one at the end of your contract
Confusion over excess mileage charges? Everything you need to know is in our easy to understand guide...
.jpg&w=3840&q=60)
