The First Real Tesla Fighter

The 2019 Jaguar I-Pace is the unlikeliest electric contender.

- Ezra Dyer

JAGUAR IS A COMPANY that I associate with charismatic gasoline engines—big straight sixes and V-12s in the classic Jags, snarling V-6s and V-8s now. Jaguars roar, right?

Not the I-Pace, which is powered by a pair of electric motors that together generate 394 horsepower and send the handsome crossover-ish hatchback to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds.

With a 90-kWh battery, the I-Pace offers 234 miles of range, which points to some serious electron-guzzling. I suppose that, like its internal-combustion Jaguar stablemates, the I-Pace prioritizes looks and performance over ultimate efficiency. Fair enough. I’d bet most buyers would rather have big wheels and some curves in the bodywork than a half-dissolved Werther’s Original rolling on bicycle tires. There are some obvious nods to aero efficiency, though. Like on the Tesla Model S, the I-Pace’s door handles motor out of the bodywork when you need them, but recede flush when you’re moving.

Fun fact: The classic Jaguar hood ornament is called the “Leaper.” That’s also a good term for the I-Pace, which represents an abrupt jump in the narrative for a car company that, until recently, was wedded to nostalgia. But 512 lb-ft of instant torque is enough to convince you that a new kind of glory days is just getting started.

Benz’s Best Tech

Intelligent suspension, augmented reality— the 2020 GLE 450 drives futuristic.

Base price: $54,695

Glove box: Has a fragrance dispenser

Massage seats: Can challenge you to a resistance workout