The 2022 Jaguar E-Pace is the British brand's attempt to appeal to younger buyers looking for a small crossover with a luxurious pedigree. While Jaguar's reputation was fueled by the sedans that haul the wealthiest members of society, it now feeds on the profits of SUVs like the mid-size F-Pace. The smaller E-Pace sits below the F and competes with small-car rivals like the BMW X2 and Volvo XC40. The turbocharged 4WD Jag isn't as fast, fuel-efficient or practical as these two - or most of its peers - but it's still a blast to drive on twisty roads. Its cargo area and rear seat aren't that big, but its cabin is driver-oriented and has desirable features.The 2022 E-Pace is more expensive than most of its classmates and not as stylish, but its exclusivity and styling might make up for some of those compromises.
Comfort
The interior of the E-Pace surrounds the driver with a sloping dashboard that brings all controls closer to the driver's hand. Some of our most popular interior appointments include silver accents throughout the cabin and available 18-way quilted leather seats. Jaguar updates the cabin with desirable options such as a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster and digital rear-view mirror, as well as a head-up display and wireless charging for smartphones.The cabin has softer surfaces and nicer materials than the previous model year. Unfortunately, the rear seat that crushed our adult frames still works. It can have a middle seat in the back seats, but can carry one piece of luggage for each passenger plus one.(For math geeks, that's six.) With a competitive cargo capacity and plenty of storage space, the E-Pace is a useful travel companion.
Engine
Like most crossovers in its class, the E-Pace features a turbocharged four-cylinder powertrain. The P250 makes 246 horsepower, while the P300 adds a mild hybrid system and another 50 ponies for a total of 296. Both engines use a nine-speed automatic transmission, which took too long to downshift for our preferences. At least the exhaust growls at high speeds. The P250 we tested was heavier than some turbocharged four-cylinder competitors, which contributed to its times slower acceleration.While every E-Pace has all-wheel drive and ample towing capacity, only the P300 Sport has torque vectoring technology for improved handling. The P250 was particularly comfortable, with soft shock absorbers that absorbed road bumps and isolated the occupants. As the 20-inch wheels rolled over rough roads, the ride quality validated the company's luxury mission.
Price
P250 $42,850
P250 SE $47,045
P300 Sport $51,045
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