2019 Jaguar E-Pace Pros vs Cons
When it comes to cars, James Murdock has the real-world experience to back it up. With an economics degree and over 20 years running the family dealership, he's managed it all - from sales to service and marketing. His role is to provide his expert opinion on vehicle performance and value. He meticulously fact checks all features and data with vehicle manufacturers to ensure the upmost accuracy.
In an effort to remain competitive with today's other luxury brands, Jaquar has jumped aboard the small crossover bandwagon. The 2019 Jaguar E-Pace will appeal to the car shoppers who desire a fun SUV that drives more like a hatchback. Standard all-wheel drive makes it a great choice for winter commuting. You can even use the new E-Pace as your main family hauler. However, does the the new E-Pace stand out in one of today's toughest segments?
What's New for 2019?
An updated infotainment system is found inside the 2019 Jaguar E-Pace. Voice commands have also been added to the available navigation system. Furthermore, some of the E-Pace's options have been rearranged.
Ten Reasons You May Like the 2019 Jaguar E-Pace – The Pros
1. Strong Turbocharged Engines
When test driving the new 2019 Jaguar E-Pace, you'll have two turbocharged four-cylinder engines to choose from. The base engine packs 246 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. Because the nine-speed automatic transmission shifts so quickly, the E-Pace has no trouble delivering a responsive performance. If you desire more rapid acceleration, step up to the 296-horsepower engine. When called into action, the more powerful E-Pace hustles to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds.
2. A Crossover With Sports Car Aspirations
When it comes to handling, the 2019 Jaguar E-Pace definitely has sports car aspirations. Although it can't hang with the athletic Jaguar F-Type coupe, most people will be very happy with its confident road manners. You'll like the E-Pace's poised demeanor. Drivers who desire a sportier character should go for the R-Dynamic P300 models. They come equipped with a performance-calibrated rear differential. Adaptive suspension dampers are also available on most models.
3. Standard AWD System
Even the least expensive variant of the 2019 Jaguar E-Pace comes equipped a special AWD system. It's designed to evenly distribute power between the front and rear wheels. This ensures the maximum grip in the snow and rain. When taking sharp curves, this dynamic AWD system also helps the E-PAce to feel stable. All-Surface Progress Control also comes standard, which further helps the E-Pace to manage low-traction conditions.
4. Good for Everyday Commuting and Road Tripping
Drivers who plan to drive the 2019 Jaguar E-Pace on an everyday basis will enjoy its decent fuel economy. According to the EPA, you can anticipate getting around 22 mpg in town and 28 mpg while cruising along the highway. This is also a good crossover for out-of-town traveling. It's ride quality remains good on rough interstates. To obtain the softest ride, avoid models equipped with 20-inch wheels.
5. Unmistakably Sporty Appearance
In terms of styling, the 2019 Jaguar E-Pace looks nothing like the truck-based SUVs of yesteryear. It has a sporty persona that everyone will notice. It's front fascia is similar to those found on Jaguar's performance sedans. The standard LED headlights also help give the E-Pace a clean appearance. You'll find the E‑Pace R-Dynamic to have a noticeably more aggressive character. Race-inspired styling cues set it apart from the other trims.
6. Safety Technologies Come Standard
Fortunately, Jaguar includes some valuable driving aids on every new 2019 E-Pace. When an imminent crash is detected, the forward collision warning system will caution you before it happens. Meanwhile, the low-speed automatic braking system provides more protection in high-traffic areas. Parking sensors and lane-keep assist come standard as well.
7. Can Be Used as a Family Vehicle
Although Jaguar makes a larger F-Pace crossover, the E-Pace's more compact dimensions make it more suitably for driving in the city. Most families will fit good inside the new E-Pace. If you have young kids, they will definitely have more than enough space to relax. Sport front seats are found inside the R-Dynamic models. Furthermore, most competitors don't provide as much storage space. You'll be able to pack all of your family's travel bags.
8. Modern, Sleek Infotainment Screen
A sleek, 10.0-inch display comes standard on the new 2019 Jaguar E-Pace. It makes the entire cabin look more modern. Jaguar's Touch Pro infotainment system also functions quite well. The interface's software was updated to ensure a quicker response time. While app integration comes standard, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are optional. Voice-activated navigation is available as well.
9. High-Tech Goodies
There are some nice technologies available for the new E-Pace. Aside from the base model, all of the other trims come equipped with in-vehicle Wi-Fi. You can also take advantage of the high-resolution Interactive Driver Display, which swaps out the regular analog gauges for a 12.3-inch digital screen. Meanwhile, the available head-up display helps reduce driving distractions.
10. Meridian Audio Systems
Don't miss out on the available Meridian stereo systems. While one unit comes equipped with a total of 11 speakers, the top-of-the-line version boasts 15 speakers. Both give you the clarity of an actual live performance. However, a more powerful amplifier is found on the upgraded system.
Reasons You May Not Like the 2019 Jaguar E-Pace – The Cons
1. Higher Sticker Price
In comparison to some of today's other compact luxury crossovers, the 2019 Jaguar E-Pace is on the more expensive side of the spectrum. Prices start at just less than $39,000. Keep in mind that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto cost extra. You'll find the BMW X1's MSRP to be more affordable. If you want the range-topping R-Dynamic HSE model, plan to spend more than $52,000.
2. Dependability Unknown
With the E-Pace being recently released last year, we aren't able to get a firm grasp on its predicted reliability. Nevertheless, Jaguar does not have a reputation for rolling out dependable vehicles. For instance, the Jaguar XE sedan ranks among the least reliable vehicles in its class. In terms of long-term reliability, Lexus and Acura vehicles tend to fair much better. On a good note, Jaguar does give buyers the protection of a 60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.
3. Still May Not Be Big Enough
The 2019 Jaguar E-Pace can handle the average American family. Nevertheless, some people will still find this crossover to be a tad too small. Tall passengers sitting in the rear may lack the necessary kneeroom. Large drivers should also pay close attention to the cabin's footwell. If you have any doubts about the E-Pace's ability to accommodate your family, step up to the larger F-Pace crossover.
4. Interior Materials Could Be Better
Although the new E-Pace is billed as a luxury vehicle, some of its interior materials don't have a high-end feel. This is especially true for the lower trim levels. Don't expect to be surrounded by a lot of soft-touch surfaces. While leather upholstery is available, it's not standard. Mercedes-Benz's MB-Tex synthetic upholstery looks and feels a lot more elegant.
5. Must Use Premium Gas
Jaguar's boosted four-cylinder engine is tuned to burn premium unleaded fuel. While this issue won't concern most luxury car buyers, others will hate not being able to use regular unleaded. Over time, the extra money spent will start to add up.
How It Stacks Up to the Competition
The 2019 BMW X1 goes head-to-head against the 2019 Jaguar E-Pace. It's arguably the sportiest crossover in the segment. Although the E-Pace may handle well, expect the BMW X1 to hold the road even better. You may also be tempted by the X1's lower MSRP.
Volvo's new XC40 is yet another highly regarded small crossover. It's exceptionally safe and has a remarkably nice interior. Because of the Volvo XC40's greater number of standard features, most automotive journalists consider it to be a better value. The best approach is to sample the new XC40 before deciding to get a Jaguar E-Pace.
You may also be thinking about choosing the larger Jaguar F-Pace. Some of the F-Pace's advantages include a roomier cabin and a stronger engine lineup. While the F-Pace is a nice SUV, it'll be harder to park in tight spots. Of course, you also can't ignore the F-Pace's higher price.
Conclusion
Jaguar fans should be excited by the arrival of the new E-Pace. It's essentially a miniature version of the F-Pace. Drivers will like the E-Pace's strong output and decent fuel economy. Although the E-Pace is not a hardcore adventure machine, a standard AWD system enables it to perform well on regular off-road trails. There are a few sore spots for the 2019 Jaguar E-Pace. Not only is this crossover's reliability not proven, but it also doesn't feel quite as luxurious as some rivals.
• 2019 Jaguar E-Pace
• 2019 Jaguar F-Pace
• 2019 Jaguar F-Type
• 2019 Jaguar XE