Following the debut of the updated F-Pace SUV, Jaguar has now also given the performance-oriented SVR variant a refresh, with more grunt under the hood alongside some performance-oriented tweaks, a nip and tuck to its exterior design, and pretty much an all-new interior to match.
Like before, the Jaguar F-Pace SVR is powered by the tried-and-true 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine. While horsepower output is unchanged, the new F-Pace SVR gains an additional 20 Nm of torque to make 550 hp and 700 Nm of torque. As a result, the century sprint is now completed three-tenths faster than before at 4.0 seconds, while top speed is increased by 3 km/h to 286 km/h.
To handle the extra torque from the powertrain, Jaguar has given the new SVR the same torque converter eight-speed automatic gearbox from the Nurburgring record-breaking XE SV Project 8. Other changes include a retuned rear Electronic Active Differential for better torque distribution, new electronic steering power-assistance system, as well as revised chassis bushes to go alongside the retuned adaptive suspension system.
The configurable driving modes also received an update to its software, resulting in a more defined difference between the different driving modes, in particular between Dynamic and Comfort; Jaguar says the new F-Pace SVR is now “more comfortable and enjoyable to drive at a relaxed pace”, without compromising its high-speed dynamics.
There’s also a new Dynamic Launch feature, which uses driveline inertia to maintain power to the wheels during gear changes, which supposedly helps with the F-Pace SVR’s acceleration from a standstill. The SVR also receives a new Integrated Power Booster for the brakes, which uses an electric booster rather than a vacuum system to deliver improved stopping performance and enhanced brake feel.
As for visual changes, the SVR receives pretty much the same set of changes to the facelifted “regular” Jaguar F-Pace, including the slimmer LED headlights, “double chicane” tail lights, and larger grille. There’s a new front bumper with bigger side air intakes which according to Jaguar helps with brake and engine cooling, and while changes look to be minimal, the overall drag coefficient has actually dropped from 0.37 Cd to 0.36 Cd.
Changes to the interior are more obvious, headlined by the new 11.4-inch curved touchscreen infotainment display running on Jaguar’s latest Pivi Pro software with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Connectivity, over-the-air software update capabilities, and an optional wireless charging pad.
The overall dashboard architecture has also been simplified, alongside a newly-redesigned steering wheel with zinc-alloy pedal shifters, and a new chunkier gear selector. The racing-inspired front bucket seats are wrapped in Alcantara as standard, but can also be optioned with Windsor leather.
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