ON THE ROAD – IAN LYNAS PREVIEWS THE JAGUAR F-PACE SVR

Clearly the premium brands have caught on quickly to the appeal of the SUV and brands such as Maserati, Lamborghini and the like are currently enjoying increased sales, as more and more customers demand the ultimate in this sector of motoring.

Jaguar has the new F-Pace SVR which is right at the pinnacle of the performance SUV range, a vehicle which is faster off the line and even more agile and which features the latest dynamic exterior design and a more luxurious and refined interior. Supplying the power is a 550PS five litre V8 supercharged petrol engine with a revised torque curve that raises peak output to 700Nm and powers the newcomer to a higher 286kph (178mph) top speed with lower emissions and improved fuel economy. Heightened torque output and a new Dynamic Launch function cut rest to 100kph (60mph) time by three tenths of a second to just 3.8 seconds. A new steering rack with SV calibration and retuned dampers deliver a much more connected driving experience and enhanced rid refinement. Stopping power is key for a such a vehicle and improved cooling and pads deliver enhanced braking performance while a new Integrated Power Booster and retuned pedal feel provide added driver confidence.

You will certainly not fail to recognise this member of the Jaguar SUV family, race inspired with new front bodywork which has been influenced by SV’s motor sport experience which reduces lift by some thirty five percent, lowers drag and amplifies F-PACE’s assertive road stance. The sporty theme continues to the interior, all new crafted and features a selection of exclusive performance focussed materials for a luxurious and sporty cabin environment. Technologies include Jaguar’s latest Pivi Pro dual sim infotainment accessed through an all new 11.4 inch HD curved glass touch screen. Software-Over-The-Air capability ensures latest vehicle systems and infotainment are installed seamlessly and remotely.

Segment first Active Road Noise Cancellation technology constantly monitors vibrations from the road surface and calculates the opposite phase sound wave needed to remove the sound from the cabin delivering a more refined environment. For enhanced convenience an updated second generation wearable Activity Key can be used to lock, unlock and start the vehicle without a conventional key to be present in the vehicle. The rechargeable device incorporates a watch and has a battery life of up to seven days between charges. Very important security is enhanced by the new Guardian Mode which is only available in the UK and which uses a timer to provide added security and peace of mind when using the Secure app. It allows customers to identify times when the vehicle will be inactive, for example through the night and receive alerts to a Smartphone if it is driven during this window, giving immediate warning of unauthorised movement. The newcomer also benefits from a selection of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. Including Clear Exit Monitor, which alerts both front and rear occupants to the presence of an approaching car or cyclist when exiting the vehicle. Adaptive Cruise Control automatically maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front. Jaguar’s latest 3D Surround Camera technology delivers advanced 3D functionality using the latest technology to deliver more detail and a choice of real time viewing when manoeuvring the vehicle. The selection of settings include Junction View, 3D Perspective View and Clear Sight Plan View.

Jaguar’s heritage of elegant design continues with their SUV range which has been a key element for eighty years. Worthy of note the Jaguar family comprises the award winning XE, XF and XJ saloons, the F-TYPE sport scar, the F-PACE performance SUV which is the fastest selling Jaguar ever and the E-PACE compact performance SUV and the I-PACE, which is at the very forefront of the electric vehicle revolution.

Ian Lynas

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