JAGUAR, I-Pace (2018-2025)

The Jaguar I-PACE is offered in a number of versions. Every one uses the same core electric drivetrain, with trim levels defining equipment and presentation rather than altering the mechanical character of the car.

UK prices typically begin at around £70,000, rising toward £80,000 for higher specifications with additional technology and luxury features.

All versions of the I-PACE use a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system producing 394bhp, delivering strong performance regardless of trim. The setup sends power to both axles and produces instant acceleration, helping the car reach 0–60mph in roughly 4.5 seconds.

Energy comes from a 90kWh battery, which officially provides a WLTP range of up to 292 miles depending on specification and wheel size. In everyday UK driving, real-world figures tend to land closer to 210–250 miles, particularly on larger wheels or motorway journeys.

Trim levels include S, SE, and HSE, with the increasingly popular R-Dynamic versions adding sportier exterior details and interior finishes. These trims don’t change the performance figures but they do shape the car’s personality. Lower trims focus on comfort and technology, while the R-Dynamic variants lean into the I-PACE’s performance character with larger wheels and more aggressive styling.

Compared with rivals like the Audi Q8 e-tron or Tesla Model Y, the I-PACE doesn’t offer multiple power outputs or battery sizes. Instead, Jaguar has taken a simpler approach: one powertrain, already powerful enough, paired with trims that focus on luxury and design rather than chasing different performance tiers.

The I-PACE’s cabin still feels distinctive several years after launch. Jaguar resisted the temptation to follow minimalist trends and instead created something more sculpted and layered. The floating centre console and sweeping dashboard give the interior a sense of depth that many EV cabins lack.

Material quality is strong throughout. Soft leather surfaces, brushed metal accents and subtle ambient lighting help create the sort of premium atmosphere expected from a Jaguar. The seats are particularly good, offering the right balance between long-distance comfort and lateral support when the road gets interesting.

The technology has evolved over time, with Jaguar introducing the Pivi Pro infotainment system in later models. The dual-screen layout allows climate controls to remain separate from navigation and media functions, which keeps things intuitive once you’ve spent a little time with it.

Rear passenger space is generous thanks to the EV platform and the absence of a transmission tunnel helps create a more open feeling cabin. The interior overall feels more like a luxury sports saloon than a traditional SUV, which suits the I-PACE’s personality perfectly.

The I-PACE remains one of the most engaging electric SUVs you can drive. From the moment you press the accelerator, the response is immediate and smooth, with the twin-motor system delivering strong acceleration that never feels abrupt.

What really sets the car apart is its chassis. The steering is precise, the body control is tight and the suspension manages to balance comfort with surprising agility. On twisting roads the I-PACE feels smaller than it actually is, leaning into corners with confidence rather than simply relying on brute electric torque.

Ride quality is generally excellent, especially on smaller wheels. The suspension absorbs uneven surfaces well and the car settles into motorway cruising with a calm, refined character.

This is where the I-PACE still shines compared with many EV rivals. Some electric SUVs feel fast but detached. The Jaguar manages to combine speed with genuine driver engagement — something that has always been central to the brand.

Range is where the I-PACE shows its age slightly. Official figures suggest up to 292 miles on the WLTP cycle, though real-world driving usually returns around 210–250 miles depending on weather, speed and wheel size.

For everyday use, that’s still perfectly workable but it doesn’t quite match the newest EVs that comfortably exceed 300 miles on a charge.

Charging performance is solid but not class-leading. The I-PACE can accept up to 100kW DC rapid charging, allowing an 80% recharge in roughly 40–45 minutes when connected to a suitable charger.

At home, charging overnight using a wallbox is straightforward, typically taking around 8–13 hours depending on the charger used.

Running costs remain relatively low compared with petrol SUVs of similar performance. Electricity costs are significantly lower than fuel and the simplicity of the electric drivetrain helps keep maintenance predictable.

The Jaguar I-PACE sits between compact and full-size SUVs, which shapes how practical it feels in everyday life. It measures roughly 4,682mm long, 2,139mm wide including mirrors and 1,565mm tall, giving it a planted stance without making it intimidating in tight city streets.

Inside, space is generous for both front and rear passengers. The long wheelbase — made possible by the electric platform — creates excellent legroom in the back and the flat floor makes the rear seats comfortable even for three passengers on shorter journeys.

Boot capacity is strong too. The rear luggage compartment offers around 577 litres, expanding to 1,453 litres with the rear seats folded. There’s also a small front storage compartment for charging cables, which helps keep the main boot free for luggage.

For families, the I-PACE works well as a primary car. Child seats fit easily, the wide tailgate makes loading simple and the cabin feels spacious enough for longer trips.

The I-PACE comes equipped with a comprehensive set of driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance and autonomous emergency braking. These systems are well integrated and generally unobtrusive, stepping in when needed rather than constantly intervening.

Build quality is solid overall, with a reassuring sense of durability in both the cabin and exterior. Software updates over the years have improved the infotainment system and addressed early issues reported on launch models.

The electric drivetrain itself has proven reliable, with the twin-motor setup delivering consistent performance and the battery management system helping preserve long-term capacity. As with most EVs, fewer moving parts also mean fewer routine maintenance requirements compared with petrol equivalents.

The Jaguar I-PACE is one of the most interesting early electric SUVs because it still feels like a Jaguar first and an EV second. It’s quick, beautifully balanced and full of character in a way that many electric SUVs struggle to replicate.

Yes, newer rivals now offer more range and faster charging and the technology doesn’t feel quite as cutting-edge as it once did. But the I-PACE still delivers something that numbers alone can’t capture: a genuinely rewarding driving experience.

If you want an electric SUV that prioritises performance, design and personality over chasing the latest specification trend, the Jaguar I-PACE remains a compelling — and still very enjoyable — choice.