Jaguar Reveals New F-PACE SVR Extreme Performance SUV
550 supercharged horsepower make for the fastest Jaguar SUV to date.
We told you it was coming. This is the 2019 Jaguar F-PACE SVR, the fastest road-going version of Jaguar’s F-PACE SUV line-up. This Jaguar super SUV debuted just days before it’s public unveiling at the New York International Auto Show. The Jaguar F-PACE SVR is jam-packed with go-fast upgrades to improve performance and further up the ante on driver satisfaction.
To start, the F-PACE SVR receives a 170 horsepower bump over the next most powerful F-PACE, the V6 S model. That 44% power bump comes courtesy of a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine, which in the F-PACE SVR, produces 550 horsepower and 502 lb-ft of torque. As a result of this massive power increase, the SVR will do the 0-60 MPH sprint in just 4.1 seconds. That increased pace (pun intended) helps this Jaguar SUV on to a claimed top speed on 176 MPH.
“The F-PACE SVR delivers the handling and agility to match its performance,” said Mike Cross, Chief Engineer of Vehicle Integrity at Jaguar Land Rover. “Everything from the steering to the bespoke suspension set-up has been tuned specifically for our performance SUV and the result is a vehicle that lives up to the promise of both the F-PACE and SVR names.”
Did we mention it features an F-TYPE inspired variable valve active exhaust system. Not only does it offer different sound levels and modes, like the raucous F-TYPE, but it also saves 14.5-lbs of weight. And based on the video, it definitely delivers when it comes to decibels.
It’s more than just a monster engine, too.
Extensive aerodynamic and body modifications occurred by the SVR team to get the F-PACE where they wanted it.
Aerodynamic enhancements include larger air intakes at the front and side fender vents that lower pressure in the wheel arches, reducing lift and providing additional cooling while also assisting with high-speed stability.
Additionally, unique wheel arch extensions and lower body moldings provide a low-slung muscularity that sets the SVR apart. From there, an exclusive SVR hood features vents to help extract hot air from the engine bay. It’s also a visual clue that lesser sports SUVs shoudn’t take this Jag lightly. At the rear, a unique spoiler is joined by a new bumper housing the Active Exhaust system’s quad tailpipes. The bumper incorporates side strakes designed to aid aerodynamic performance by smoothing airflow away from the rear of the vehicle.
Inside, the F-PACE SVR features slimline performance front seats, which offer improved lateral support and have the signature Jaguar lozenge quilting and embossed SVR logo. From there, unique rear seats echo the heavily sculpted designs of the seats up front.
Interestingly, in order to better signify its sporting intentions, the F-PACE SVR has a very unique interior touch. This SUV’s sports car character is underlined by a SportShift gear selector like what is found in the F-TYPE. No rotary shifter here. Finally, the SVR branded steering wheel is enhanced with tactile aluminum paddle shifters.
Under the skin
Chassis upgrades begin with new progressive coil springs, which are 30% stiffer in the front, and 10% stiffer in the rear. Jaguar touts how flat the F-PACE SVR is under hard braking. SVR-tuned shock absorbers are paired with those stiffer springs. The anti-roll bars (sway bars) have also been changed to further reduce cornering roll be a claimed 5%.
New, lightweight forged 21- and optional 22-inch alloy wheels feature staggered widths. The rear wheels are an inch wider than the front and contribute to the vehicle’s enhanced handling. The 22-inch wheels are 5.3lbs lighter on the front and 3.7lbs lighter on the rear and are designed to deliver greater airflow to the brakes.
Speaking of brakes, in order to better woah some of the F-PACE SVR’s go, larger brakes have been fitted front and rear. Interestingly, the front brake rotors measure 15.5-inches (395mm), while rear brakes are slightly larger at 15.6-inches (396mm). Huh. The brake discs feature an advanced two piece construction on the front and rear, and when combined with the lighter wheels reduce unsprung mass, further contributing to the new car’s agile handling.
Interestingly, the F-PACE SVR utilizes a rear Electronic Active Differential (EAD). The SVR differential works in conjunction with a comprehensive range of advanced technologies, each calibrated to deliver increased on-road performance and handling. The All-Wheel Drive system has been optimized to maximize the benefit of that diff. Meanwhile, the software for the Adaptive Dynamics suspension, Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) and Dynamic Driving Mode are all unique to the F-PACE SVR. Engaging Dynamic mode initiates faster, more responsive gearshifts, and offers sharper throttle responses and increased steering response. Jaguar claims this makes for a more engaging driving experience in all conditions. We can’t wait to find out.
The Jaguar F-PACE SVR goes on sale in the United States in Summer 2018, with a starting MSRP of $79,990.
