Jaguar launches refreshed baby E-Pace

The posh crossover features new hybrid powertrains and an upgraded infotainment system. But it comes at a premium price.

With the luxury crossover boom being far from over, Jaguar has thought it best to update their posh little SUV, the E-Pace. But what’s changed? A surprising amount, actually.

You’d be forgiven for missing the facelift, but eagle-eyed fans will notice the tiny Jag now features fancy all-LED headlights with a “Double J” design. Opt for the Pixel LED units and they’ll block out part of their beam to not blind oncoming traffic. There’s also a new chrome grille with diamond detailing and “Leaper” emblems on the side vents.

However, the biggest - and most appreciated - changes have happened on the inside. The Brits have shoved their latest infotainment setup into the E-Pace. It, like its stablemates, now features the impressive 11.4-inch curved-glass Pivi Pro touchscreen system - a massive improvement from the last one.

They’ve finally gotten rid of the old joystick gear selector too, replacing it with a new drive selector that’s lower and wider and features an upper section finished with “cricket-ball” stitching. The baby Pace also nicked the steering wheel from its bigger, all-electric I-Pace brother, which features hidden-until-lit switches and metal gearshift paddles.

It’s all very sophisticated with a touch of metal minimalism which is evident in the heightened attention to detail. Headrests now feature an embossed Jaguar Leaper, while “Est.1935 Jaguar Coventry” upholstery tags reference the history and heritage of the British brand.

For the first time, the posh crossover is now offered with hybrid powertrains - perfect for the eco-conscious. The plug-in hybrid powertrain combines the brand’s new 147kW 1.5-litre three-cylinder Ingenium petrol engine and an 80kW electric motor to deliver a combined 227kW and 540Nm of torque, and a 0-100km/h sprint in 6.5 seconds. That’s rather spritely for a portly hybrid SUV.

The E-Pace obviously comes well specced with customers choosing between S, SE, and HSE trim levels. Features include the aforementioned infotainment system, a Meridian sound system, a plethora of driving assistance systems, and Jag’s brilliant ClearSight Interior Rear View Mirror.

Prices start at R868 000, though, and if you want the hybrid that’ll start at R1 165 500. No one ever said being posh comes cheap.