Publications
• Jaguar's updated F-Pace is set to arrive locally in early 2021.
• We focus on a couple of other premium SUVs we think are worth considering if you're in the market.
• The Volvo XC60, BMW X5 and Range Rover Velar are highlighted among the premium SUVs currently on sale.
Jaguar is set to introduce its updated F-Pace in early 2021. The new range features a plug-in hybrid model for the first time that has 297kW from a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine and a 105kW electric motor. The PHEV model has a claimed electric range of 53 kilometres.
The carmaker's largest SUV sports new styling upgrades to its headlights, hood design, front bumper and grille. The flagship SVR also receives new styling bits, but crucially has more torque from its 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine with 405kW and 700Nm.
Jag says it'll hit 100km/h from standstill in four seconds flat, three-tenths faster than it predecessor and runs out of puff at 286km/h.
Inside, there's a new 29cm curved touch screen and benefits from the firm's latest Pivi infotainment system. I've tested it in the new Land Rover Defender and found it intuitive and easy to use.
The cabin is also spruced up with newer materials to provide it with a fresher look. The SVR's price starts at R1 835 700.
The F-Pace isn't the only SUV we rate very highly, there are several other premium SUVs that we'd recommend.
The Volvo XC60 remains a brilliant package and offers a mix of powerful forced induction petrol and diesel engines. The 2018 World Car of the Year is well-made and features a plethora of safety systems for those inside and out.
We recently spent a month with the flagship T6 variant and I was blown away by the level of comfort from its optional air suspension and general ride quality.
The 2.0-litre supercharged and turbocharged engine produces 235kW and 400Nm. The eight-speed automatic gearbox is billiard-table smooth and sends power to all four wheels.
It's finished off with an elegant design that looks purposeful yet sleek and understated. The XC60 is priced from R791 235.
BMW's X5 is a perennial favourite in the large SUV segment. The G05 model was launched in 2019 and its styling stays true to its city slicker market.
One of the original premium SUVs with a range of turbocharged petrol and diesel engines. There's even a high-performance X5 M available. The M50d offers a quad turbos and an extraordinary amount of power for an SUV.
That performance-diesel model made me question whether it's necessary for BMW to build the X5 M. It's insanely fast and capable for an SUV. It has 294kW and 760Nm, and will reach 100km/h in 5.2 seconds.
The current generation is more on-road biased although it comes with sophisticated systems to make off-roading possible.
It is built on the brand's Cluster Architecture (CLAR) platform and most of the units are assembled at the Spartanburg Plant in South Carolina. The X5 is priced from R1 402 400.
And finally the Range Rover Velar is a striking large SUV that has the underpinnings of the brand's 4x4 architecture but the styling of a sleek 21st century car. It slots between the Evoque and Sport models in the range.
I drove the Velar SVA Autobiography at the start of 2020 and was impressed by its sharp exterior looks and the manner in which it delivered 405kW and 680Nm from its snarling 5.0-litre V8 supercharged engine.
The Velar does a fantastic job of blending old school charm with modern technology in a package that looks like nothing else on the road. The Velar is priced from R1 290 100.
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