Jaguar E-PACE 300 Sport 2021 Car Review

The E-PACE we reviewed looked classy finished in Santorini Black with an Ebony interior palate.

The new E-PACE range starts from $73,990 (+ORC), with the E-PACE 300 Sport starting from $94,900 (+ORC).

What’s new?

The E-PACE’s new cockpit has been refined to beautifully integrate the latest digital interfaces, with the most up-to-date connected technology including the latest PIVI Pro including Smart Settings and Connected Navigation Pro5 infotainment system, which allows Software-Over-The-Air (SOTA) updates.

Mated to a smooth shifting automatic transmission, Jaguar’s all-wheel drive system features Intelligent Driveline Dynamics, and now has its driveline disconnect as standard for improved efficiency, along with a powerful four-cylinder engine which can propel the vehicle from standstill to 100km/h in under seven seconds.

As part of the 2021 updates, the E-PACE also receives revisions to its bumpers, state-of-the-art LED headlights, as well as a new front grille. Inside, there’s a new 11.4-inch HD curved-glass touchscreen, which is chemically strengthened and features two coatings; one which is anti-glare and a second which resists fingerprint marks.

We reviewed the E-PACE in 2018 when it was first introduced, and the interior enhancements are quite apparent. The instrument gauges have been removed in favour of a digital colour display, the steering wheel has had some design tweaks, and the transmission select lever is now a shorter, more robust unit. The infotainment display and HVAC controls are the most instantly recognisable change. 

The 3D surround camera is a great addition to have, and provides a sure view to assist in getting in and out of car parks and driveways safely and with all the paint still intact.

What we liked a lot

The drive from the engine is smooth, the handling comfortable and the interior was roomy for our small family of three to travel in, which is one of the best things about SUVs. The wireless phone charger station is another win, with annoying cables now no longer required.

Our test E-PACE had just over $6,000 worth of extras added to showcase some of the packages you can choose from, like the ClearSight interior rear-view mirror, fixed panoramic roof, gesture tailgate, privacy glass and 21-inch Split Spoke alloy wheels.

Our verdict

The new E-PACE is a fresh, bold SUV, with a truly focused interior with the most up-to-date connected technology.

Although the fuel economy specs show a reasonable figure from 7.7L/100km, the projected range on a full tank when we received the car only showed just over 300km. We expected this to increase once we started driving, but after 150km it hadn’t given us any additional range. 

Unlike many other luxury SUVs, there’s no ambient lighting in the E-PACE, which is a feature we have come to expect in luxury SUV’s and would have really set the interior alight.

For $2,000 less, you can get your hands on an entry level Range Rover Evoque R-Dynamic S, or there’s the top-spec Volvo XC40 Recharge PHEV available from $84,900 (+ORC). There’s also the top-spec Audi Q3 S-Line, which will set you back $87,900 (+ORC). But, there aren’t many cars that are quite like a Jag…

Safety systems

• Anti-Lock Braking System
• Electronic Brake-Force Distribution
• Emergency Brake Assist
• Passive Front Head Restraints
• Front airbags, with passenger seat occupant detector, Front side airbags
• Lane Keep Assist
• Full length side window curtain airbag
• Driver Condition Monitor

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