The Jaguar F-Pace SVR. Faster, more dynamic and more refined.

Image: Naresh Maharaj

The Cat growled into my driveway the other day. I was taken aback by the good looks of the SUV and that ‘harmonic’ sound produced by the twin tailpipes on either side. Jaguar’s 405kW 5.0-litre V8 Supercharged petrol engine features a revised torque curve that raises peak output to 700Nm and powers F-PACE SVR (Special Vehicle Rating) to a higher 286km/h top speed increases torque and new Dynamic Launch function allows one to go from 0-100km/h in just 4.0 seconds. It’s very fast. I just loved everything about this mean machine. The sounds, the speeds, the exterior and interior. After all, it is a Jaguar. 

Image: Naresh Maharaj 

Dynamics

The new F-PACE SVR is available exclusively with Jaguar’s 5.0-litre V8 Supercharged petrol engine, which produces 405kW and 700Nm. Pause for a second and imagine the power: 405kW! A new Dynamic Launch feature also uses driveline inertia to maintain power to the wheels during gear changes, contributing to the SVR’s sharper acceleration from standstill. The V8 Supercharged engine is paired with Jaguar’s eight-speed automatic transmission which delivers rapid gearshifts while adapting the way power is delivered to suit the driving situations.

Jaguar’s All-Wheel Drive with Intelligent Driveline Dynamics is fitted as standard. Adaptive Dynamics suspension technology ensures a precise, dynamic set-up coupled with a supple ride, while Configurable Dynamics provides enhanced driver appeal by enabling the driver to set up the vehicle to suit their personal preferences. A stopwatch, G-Meter and pedal graph also help the driver to monitor performance in Dynamic mode.

Exterior

The design of the new F-PACE SVR is inspired by SV’s motorsport experience, with enhanced airflow and aerodynamic benefits delivered through new apertures and vents for improved powertrain and brake cooling. The dynamic, assertive design is now more compelling than ever, with a Black Pack option available for the first time. In place of the Satin Grey of the SV Exterior Pack, a dramatic Gloss Black finish is applied to key details such as the grille surround, bonnet louvres, front bumper apertures, sill trims and rear valance. Rear badges in Gloss Black complete the look. The new Black Pack perfectly complements the optional 22-inch ‘Style 5117’ forged wheels, which combine a five-spoke design with a Gloss Black finish and Satin Technical Grey inserts.

Interior

The interior of the new F-PACE SVR is comprehensively redesigned, with materials enhanced to heighten the dynamic character of the cabin and its controls. Seat and door inserts are finished in Alcantara, with elements such as the central cubby and leather midroll wrapped in luxurious Windsor leather. The 12.3-inch HD Interactive Driver Display is wrapped in Alcantara with ebony stitching, while aluminium patterned finishers feature as standard with open-pore carbon-fibre available as an option.

Optional slim line semi-aniline leather sports seats with heritage logo-inspired diamond embroidery across the front shoulder section, feature a unique perforation across the backrest. An embossed SVR logo on the headrests adds a final flourish.

Jaguar’s new Drive Selector has a more performance-focused feel for the F-PACE SVR, finished in dimpled leather with heritage logo-inspired detailing and debossed SVR logo. The new SVR split-rim steering wheel is finished with tactile zinc-alloy shift paddles, providing heightened driver engagement when making manual gear changes.

Tech

New F-PACE SVR features all of the advanced technologies found in the latest F-PACE core models, ensuring it is always connected and always up-to-date for enhanced driver convenience. These include intuitive Pivi Pro infotainment with an all-new 11.4-inch HD curved glass touchscreen, Software-Over-Air capability, Active Road Noise Cancellation, the latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems and optional wireless device charging.

Image: Naresh Maharaj

Verdict

This has to be one of the fastest cars I have driven on a racetrack. The high-powered engine and the 8 speed gearbox are in complete harmony with each other. The ‘blips’ that emanates from the two twin pipes is the best I have heard and experienced. The ride quality was excellent and the 11.4inch touchscreen was aptly positioned to allow the driver ease of access. Boot space was plentiful to load up for the office commute or weekend adventures, with the rear back-rests collapsible for all the space you will need. Driving in Eco mode helps fuel consumption figures.  

Price

F-PACE SVR: R2 176 000 incl. Also included in the pricing is the Five-Year/100 000km Jaguar Care Plan.

The 5-Year 100 000km (whichever occurs first) Care Plan consists of three components and covers parts and maintenance costs.