JAGUAR E-PACE
Plug-in hybrid departs with a reputation for excelling at long trips and urban trudges – despite two shortcomings
FINAL REPORT MILEAGE 10,521
WHY WE RAN IT
Have a new platform and PHEV power made Jaguar’s cub fully fighting fit?
Happily, the E-Pace P300e encompasses the best of modern-day Jaguar: it is the brand’s most relevant and affordable model (in the luxury realms); it has been updated enough to stay competitive in terms of electrification and electric range (although soon 39 miles will look poor…); and it incorporates the firm’s best infotainment system yet. It’s also incredibly comfortable without neglecting some half-decent driving dynamics – and this P300e plug-in hybrid is the E-Pace at its best for that, being positioned as the sporty variant in the model range.
I’ve always been glad to get behind the wheel. It’s a familiar, cosseting spot, which is exactly what I want from luxury – comfort packaged in a desirable and quality way. That extends to the design of the interior and its intuitive functionality, ranging from the easy-to-manage knobs for volume, climate control and heated seats to the Pivi Pro infotainment system, which is aesthetically pleasing but also allows you to find what you’re looking for with relative ease – not something that’s widespread on touchscreens. Having wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity is another boon.