There’s no getting around Jaguar’s sterling (and well-earned) reputation as a driver’s car. But when it comes to performance sedans, there are certain expectations at the enthusiast level. From power ratings and refinement of handling, to the visceral appeal of a throaty engine note, there are an inevitable number of boxes to tick in order for an automaker to fully satisfy its loyal (if not unforgiving) fan base.
That said the Jaguar I-Pace represents a whole new inroad for a more diverse range of drivers to venture down. As the automaker’s freshman attempt at EV, there are bound to be some traditionalists that find themselves less-than-impressed with its silent and calm resolve. That said, EV enthusiasts with aspirational buying habits are bound to be lined up in droves to get behind the wheel. And regardless of which side of the aisle they’re seating on, everyone better get used to the idea, because Jaguar has announced an ambitious plan to convert its entire lineup to electric over the next few years. It’s no surprise that Google’s autonomous Ways service has placed 20,000 of these innovative cars on order.
Channeling 197 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, the I-Pace may never be viewed as heir-apparent to Jaguar’s performance sedan pedigree, but it’s certainly no deadbeat trust-fund baby either. Its aluminum chassis ranks as Jaguar’s most rigid offering ever. Placement of the battery-pack between axles maintains a strong balance and regulates a low center of gravity that helps to control inertia. And in terms of handling, it ranks very high in terms of refinement.
With a 240-mile range, the I-pace is a confident performer among EV offerings. Fast-charging options can bring it upwards of 80% within 85 minutes, while some might guffaw at the ten hour charge time required when charged at home. That said, Jaguar’s bold plan to transition all offerings under their new EV umbrella indicates that refinement of these specs are bound to evolve and improve over time.
Priced to start around $69,500 MSRP here in the U.S., the I-Pace isn’t cheap. That said, remember what you’re paying for, and don’t feel guilty about digging something so opulent. We dig it, too…
So, if you share our excitement about taking a real-world look at the 2019 Jaguar I-Pace. So, while we’d love to climb behind the wheel right now, we have some additional deadlines to meet. Fortunately, for all of us, here’s a great close-up look courtesy of Driven Car Reviews. Let us know what you think.
