By Khulekani Dumisa

Hot on the heels of revealing the updated F-Pace range, Jaguar SA has taken covers off the refreshed F-Pace SVR with more power and a quick 0-100km/h acceleration time.

Power dynamics

The new F-PACE SVR is available exclusively with Jaguar’s 5.0-litre V8 Supercharged petrol engine, which produces 405kW and 700Nm of torque. This is an increased of 20Nm. This uplift in torque enables acceleration from 0-100km/h in 4.0 seconds, three-tenths faster than before, and a top speed of 286km/h.

The powertrain now features the same torque converter used in the Jaguar XE SV Project 8 super sedan to withstand the higher loads produced. A new Dynamic Launch feature also uses driveline inertia to maintain power to the wheels during gear changes, contributing to the SVR’s quicker acceleration from a standstill. The V8 Supercharged engine is paired with Jaguar’s eight-speed automatic transmission.

Jaguar’s All-Wheel Drive with Intelligent Driveline Dynamics is fitted as standard.

The steering system is enhanced with a new electronic power-assistance system. This is said to deliver greater immediacy, providing a heightened connection between the vehicle and driver. Modified tuning of the adaptive damping is said to provide a more refined ride at low speeds, which is further improved by revised chassis bushes.

Drivers also benefit from improved brake feel in the new F-PACE SVR. The 395mm (front) and 396mm (rear) two-piece disc brakes are now supported by a new Integrated Power Booster which, along with a recalibration of the system, Jaguar says, deliver a sportier and shorter brake pedal. Finally, improved cooling and aerodynamics of the vehicle is said to also improve the performance of the brakes, giving the driver even greater confidence.

Looks

Outside there are new apertures and vents for improved powertrain and brake cooling. The changes help deliver improved aerodynamic performance including 35 per cent reduction in aerodynamic lift, while drag is cut from 0.37Cd to 0.36Cd.

Buyers can also look forward to a Black Pack option which is available for the first time in the Jaguar F-Pace SVR. In place of the Satin Grey of the SV Exterior Pack, a Gloss Black finish is applied to the grille surround, bonnet louvres, front bumper apertures, sill trims and rear valance. Rear badges in Gloss Black complete the look.

Interior

Most of the changes happen inside where the cabin has been redesigned and materials have been improved. Seat and door inserts are finished in Alcantara and parts such as the central cubby, and leather midroll are wrapped in 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. A Pivi Pro infotainment with an all-new 11.4-inch HD curved glass touchscreen dominates the dash and is offered with an optional wireless device charging. Other tech features include Software-Over-Air capability, Active Road Noise Cancellation, the latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems.

Optional slimline semi-aniline leather sports seats with heritage logo-inspired diamond embroidery across the front shoulder section, feature a unique perforation across the backrest, while the same pattern is used on the leather on the seatbacks. An embossed SVR logo on the headrests adds a final flourish.

Jaguar’s new Drive Selector is said to have 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 paddle.

Pricing

The new Jaguar F-PACE SVR is available in South Africa now with a starting price of R1,835,700. All Jaguar vehicles come with a standard 5-year/100,000km Jaguar Care Plan and warranty.