Page 23 - Motoring Winter 2022

JAGUAR TEST REVIEW

JAGUAR E-PACE D200

AWD R-DYNAMIC

any luxury car buyers have moved away from sedans into The D200 is powered by Jaguar’s Ingenium turbodiesel engine
the SUV segment in recent years, creating a new niche for providing 147kW and 430Nm, so it’s not a racing car but there’s plenty
Mmanufacturers to provide ever-expanding options to their of torque, especially for overtaking when required, and cruising all
loyal fans. Jaguar definitely fits into this growing category. day when travelling. The 9-speed automatic transmission simply goes
In my opinion, Jaguar still remains a marque with the mystique that about its work without being noticed in everyday driving. All-Wheel
British luxury cars used to have, which these days is becoming more Drive provides the security blanket in respect of road holding – which is
and more scarce. Think ‘Gentlemen’s Club’ car, surrounded by plush crucial for European winter conditions. The modes for road conditions
leather, wood (maybe not anymore) and the feeling that the butler and traction are what one would expect from this calibre of vehicle –
is hovering behind the scenes, to hand you your next beverage. It’s a along with the power delivery and driving styles such as Dynamic mode
Jaaaaag . . . enough said. if you want to press on a bit.
The E-Pace is the entry model in the current range, baby brother Fuel consumption for our test period was 7.8l/100km, achieved for
to the F-Pace in their SUV range. It’s not a small vehicle but fits the a mix of urban commuting as well as a weekend road-trip. I’m certain
role of a premium medium SUV perfectly. Due to its coupe-like back- that most owners will easily achieve similar economy.
end styling, the rear headroom in particular is a touch compromised, Overall, this is a niche product that, even in today’s world, provides
but it’s more than adequate for 2 to 3 teenagers, which satisfies that exclusive feeling that many strive for but few actually attain.
the intended function. As a family vehicle, features like USB ports With pricing starting at just over R1 million up to R1.3 million for
in the backrests of the front seats are a neat feature that I haven’t the top 3l petrol models, the E-Pace is very competitive in the market
encountered before. segment. A 5-year/100 000km maintenance plan is included. n
Luxury abounds. There’s a 12” touchscreen with every possible
function, wireless connectivity, and just that sheer feeling of being Use this link for our video review:
ensconced in opulence. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7oDQNru8bg

MOTORING | Winter 2022 | 21