Let's be completely clear: the 380-horsepower Jaguar F-PACE S has always been a fast SUV. Its supercharged V6 engine is so lively that it makes even a beginner's hair stand on end. There is little discussion about this point.
The problem is that high-performance SUVs like the BMW X5 M, Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, and Porsche Cayenne Turbo have redefined what shoppers can expect from a performance crossover, and Jaguar, a company with a long history in performance and racing, simply put it. Not possible. It can't compete with those rocket ships.
Don't wake up the neighbors
Luckily, in a true Cinderella story, Jaguar's supercharged V8 is a perfect fit in the F-PACE's engine bay. With this engine, the F-PACE evolves from a fast, luxurious crossover and heads into the realm of supercars.
The 2019 Jaguar F-PACE SVR isn't necessarily the best choice for early risers who live in quiet suburban villages. Sure, our test car's Ultra Blue paint would look great against the manicured green lawn. But hit the brakes and hit the on switch, the birds are sure to leave their nest and your peaceful neighbors are more likely to write stern letters to the homeowners association.
The F-PACE SVR is loud - something Jaguar is making noises about these days. But it also comes with a little party trick for those who just can't get enough of blasting through tunnels and speeding through parking garages. On the center console between the driver's and passenger's seats, Jaguar has installed a button that opens a set of deflectors in the exhaust pipe. Press this button, and the SVR's engine tone will grow from a mild (but noticeable) growl to a full blown bark. Residents of your rural area may not appreciate the noise, but you probably will.
Watch out for the speed limits
Once you get out and about running, the party just begins. The SVR's 5.0-liter V8 generates 550 horsepower and 502 lb-ft of torque, distributed to all four wheels and managed by a snappy 8-speed automatic transmission. It's not quite as fast as some competitors - namely the Porsche Macan Turbo - but with Pirelli Scorpion all-season tires, it raced away from traffic lights and ripped through corners. Despite the car's curb weight of 4,395 pounds, it didn't feel heavy.
Certainly, the SVR would benefit from some additional upgrades—at around $90,000, one would hope it came with more than just a big engine. 22-inch wheels handle wide tires, and the massive brakes have Jaguar's electronic active differential, which helps the car carve corners by applying light pressure to the inside wheel while cornering. Unfortunately, just like a real supercar, it also guzzles gas. Over 250 miles, we averaged 16.3 miles per gallon of the painfully expensive premium fuel.
Stop grocery shopping!
However, what really makes the F-PACE special isn't its sound, its speed, or its handling chops. It delivers all of those supercar elements while still up to the task of everyday life.
You'll usually hear critics hail the Porsche 911 or Audi R8 as "everyday supercars," because they're relatively comfortable and easy to drive, while also delivering top-notch performance. But next to the F-PACE SVR, these cars are pretty exotic.
The F-PACE gives you four-wheel drive. It gives you a ground lift. It gives you 63.5 cubic feet of total cargo space. It also just so happens to give you face-melting acceleration and cell-crippling braking. Packaged in beautifully designed sheet metal and complete with advanced safety and technology features, the F-PACE SVR is the new everyday supercar.
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