Hot Jaguar E-PACE 300 SPORT fires up to 221kW
Mild-hybrid tech boosts new Jag small SUV flagship as range upgraded and cut back for 2021The incoming 2021 Jaguar E-PACE range will be spearheaded by a new 221kW boosted turbo-petrol hybrid sports model priced from $79,600 plus on-road costs.
Known as the Jaguar E-PACE 300 SPORT, the new flagship of the British brand’s top-selling model also benefits from a comprehensive update wrought across the premium small SUV range that is now available to order ahead of first deliveries in the first quarter of 2021.
Along similar lines to the updated Jaguar XE sedan and Jaguar F-PACE large SUV due around the same time, there is a fresh new look, extra tech and improved safety systems.
There's also a major cabin overhaul for the new Jaguar E-PACE, which has been cut down from 12 variants to just four.
A far cry from the 38 distinct variants offered at the SUV’s launch in 2018, the new E-PACE range reflects the deletion of diesel engine options and entry-level variants. That leaves only the sporty R-Dynamic model grade across S, SE and HSE trim levels underneath the new 300 SPORT.
The R-Dynamic S P250 is now the entry point to the E-PACE range at $63,900 plus ORCs (+$1170), with the SE version starting at $67,200 (-$232) and HSE at $71,300 (-$2348).
The three R-Dynamic models stick with a carryover 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine (184kW/365Nm), paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The 48-volt mild-hybrid system added to the 300 SPORT boosts output to 221kW/400Nm.
This P300 MHEV powertrain can send the 300 SPORT from 0-100km/h in a claimed 6.9 seconds, down from 7.5sec in the P250s.
The Jaguar E-PACE 300 SPORT also benefits from a more advanced second-generation Active Driveline AWD system that can transfer torque between the front and rear axles, as well as distribute torque across the rear wheels (including 100 per cent to either side).
It combines with Jaguar’s Active Damping, Adaptive Dynamics and Configurable Dynamics tech “for enhanced performance” in the 300 SPORT, which also has 20-inch five-spoke diamond-turned satin dark grey alloy wheels and the Black Exterior Pack (optional elsewhere).
Inside, the top cat has illuminated Jaguar treadplates, Meridian audio system, Ebony Suedecloth headlining and R-Dynamic Taurus Sport seats in Ebony, Cloud or Deep Garnet.
Engineering work applied across the 2021 Jaguar E-PACE range includes new engine mounts designed to improve throttle response, while stiffer front suspension attachment points aim to deliver “a more comfortable ride” and “reduce vibration and harshness across the whole cabin”, Jaguar says.
The interior also now has Jaguar Land Rover’s latest 11.4-inch Pivi Pro infotainment system with over-the-air software update capability, dual-SIM technology, navigation and simplified menu structures.
The HD touch-screen is made of a curved glass, while the usual suspects like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are on board.
Other standard features include a 15W wireless phone charger and a large 12.3-inch driver instrument display with enhanced graphics and plenty of customisation options, while a Cabin Air Ionisation system removes allergens and unpleasant odours from the cabin.
The gear selector is now lower, wider and finished with “cricket-ball” stitching, while a new steering wheel (taken from the electric Jaguar I-PACE) features hidden-until-lit switches and metal gearshift paddles.
Owners can also opt for a wearable watch-like ‘Activity Key’ to lock and unlock the car without having to use the key fob.
Standard safety systems on all Australian-spec Jaguar E-PACE variants now include a 3D surround camera, adaptive cruise control, blind spot assist, rear collision monitor, rear traffic monitor, traffic sign recognition and adaptive speed limiter.
On the outside, the 2021 Jaguar E-PACE gets a new grille as well as a revised front bumper that’s more aerodynamic than before.
LED headlights with ‘Double J’ daytime running lights come standard, while adaptive LED high beams and front animated indicators are found on R-Dynamic SE, HSE and 300 SPORT variants.
How much does the 2021 Jaguar E-PACE cost?
R-Dynamic S P250 – $63,900
R-Dynamic SE P250 – $67,200
R-Dynamic HSE P250 – $71,300
300 SPORT – $79,600
* Prices exclude on-road costs
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