History/Overview
Jaguar introduced the E-Pace compact luxury crossover in 2018, and in 2019 moved it a smidge further upmarket by eliminating two entry-level trim levels. The curious E-Pace name indicates this utility's position at the bottom of the Jaguar ladder; it is to the larger F-Pace as the XE compact sedan is to the mid-size XF. The E label also does not indicate an electrified powertrain in any way; Jag's electric vehicle is the I-Pace.
What's New / Key Changes from Last Year
For 2020, Jaguar adds a new trim, the Checkered Flag Edition.
Available Trims
SE, R-Dynamic SE, R-Dynamic HSE and Checkered Flag all use a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, an eight-speed transmission and AWD. The R-Dynamic models get a roughly 50-hp power boost.
Standard Features
E-Pace SE comes standard with automatic LED headlights, signature daytime running lights, rear fog lights, automatic high beams, a power tailgate, auto-dimming, heated and power-folding side mirrors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers, approach lighting, rear spoiler, 19-inch wheels, a heated and leather-trimmed steering wheel, cargo area tie-downs and hooks, dual-zone climate control, a Meridian 11-speaker stereo, navigation, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, 10-inch infotainment touchscreen, forward collision detection with automatic braking, traffic sign recognition with speed limiter, lane keep assist, 360-degree camera views, park assist, semi-active variable suspension, rear traffic monitor and tire pressure monitoring.
R-Dynamic SE trim brings front fog lights, the more potent engine, trim-specific wheels, bright metal pedals, black steering wheel-mounted shift paddles, Jaguar's active driveline and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
R-Dynamic HSE models get 20-inch wheels, perforated Windsor leather upholstery and a digital gauge cluster.
Checkered Flag Edition models build on the basic SE trim, adding, again, trim-specific wheels, digital gauge cluster, metal treadplates, red-stitched seats, front and rear parking aids, blind spot assist, and passive keyless entry. This package also deletes the base car's Meridian stereo for a simpler six-speaker setup.
Key Options
SE (base and R-Dynamic) models can be optioned with a driver assist package bundling high-speed emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring.
Checkered Flag trim offers the driver assist package detailed above, and a parking package of 360-degree camera, park assist and a rear traffic monitor.
All trims can be fitted with a cold weather package that comprises heated washer jets and a heated windshield.
Fuel Economy
Jaguar's fuel consumption estimates for the E-Pace are 11.0/8.4 L/100 km (city/highway).
Competition
With the E-Pace, Jaguar is looking to steal buyers from models like the Acura RDX, Audi Q3, Cadillac XT4, Infiniti QX50, Land Rover Range Rover Evoque, Lexus NX, Lincoln Corsair (nee MKC), Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, Porsche Macan, and the Volvo XC40.
