What makes the Jaguar F-Pace 20d AWD R Sport a strong contender in the Executive SUV category of the 2017/18 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank? We investigate…

The Jaguar F-Pace has set new sales records and standards for the brand since its introduction in 2016. It's the first SUV built by Jaguar and itsattractive styling and performance credentials have left a mark on consumers. This particular model also features the entry-level turbodiesel engine, but don’t think it’s underpowered as Jaguar Land Rover’s Ingenium engines continue to impress with power and torque delivery.

3 Reasons Why the Jaguar F-Pace 20d is #CarsAwards Finalist

1. Performance and economy

Powered by a 2.0-litre turbodiesel that’s good for 132 kW and 430 Nm of torque, the F-Pace delivers adequate surge and accelerates briskly with plenty mid-range overtaking grunt. The major drawcard of this 2.0-litre unit is the fuel consumption figure of just 5.3L/100 km that gives the F-Pace a theoretical range of 1 132 km.

2. Luxury and tech

As standard, the F-Pace 20d R Sport comes with most nice-to-have features fitted to create a sense of luxury. The perforated Taurus leather upholstery looks and smells “proper”, there’s keyless start, bi-zone climate control, a 380W Meridian sound system, auto lights/wipers, cruise control, front and rear park distance control and a rear-view camera. There are other worthwhile features on offer too such a waterproof Activity Key and the InControl Connect Pro pack with handy phone apps and useful navigation functions.

3. Sporty driving dynamics

The F-Pace is essentially a sports car that just happens to be a practical SUV and in our experience, it performs astoundingly well. It corners without body lean, which is counter-intuitive given its SUV heft. The barriers of grip are beyond that of the average large SUV and it’s probably the closest example of a sports car in an SUV body that we’ve sampled.

The F-Pace rides pristinely and Jaguar’s new suspension design has really improved the dynamism and comfort of its modern offerings. The F-Pace iscomposed on all surfaces, making it a confident car to drive.

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What cars are the F-Pace's rivals in #CarsAwards?

The 2017/18 #CarsAwards finalists:Executive SUV Category

Compare the F-Pace's specs with the Mercedes-Benz GLC 250d 4Matic AMG Line andtheAudiQ5 2.0 TDI Quattro Sport

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2017/18 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank; Finalists