Jaguar I-Pace EV400 HSE

The 2022 Jaguar I-Pace EV400 HSE is another member of the electric revolution that is changing the face of the automotive world as we know it. It’s an electric small crossover SUV with style, luxury and Jaguar class that has made it one of the most desirable EVs on the road today. Napleton News had a week to charge it up to see if we could live with it. Here’s our review.

Electrified Leaper: The Jaguar I-Pace EV400 HSE

The Jaguar I-Pace EV400 HSE is not exactly new, but it is certainly improved over the model it was when introduced in 2019. There were just a few EVs on the road back in those days. Electric vehicle designs from Tesla, Nissan (Leaf) and Chevrolet (Bolt) were early competitors. Today, there are many more. These include the Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai’s Ioniq 5, Kia’s EV6, Volkswagen’s ID-4, Volvo’s Polestar lineup, BMW I-series of EVs, and the Audi E-Tron. And then there are the trucks, including the Ford F150 Lightning and the Chevrolet Silverado EV.

In the past, the Jaguar lineup has had several trim levels for buyers to choose from. They have tightened up on those offerings in a drive towards simplification. In the case of this vehicle, it is available in a singular trim choice, namely the Jaguar I-Pace EV400 HSE. HSE is the top-range trim, so rest assured you would be getting the high-line model rather than a stripped-down version.

Power for the I-Pace comes from two permanent magnet electric motors. Since this is an all-wheel drive model, it has one on each axle. Total power output between the two motors adds up to 394 horsepower and 512 lb-ft of torque. That’s quite formidable for such a lightweight, aluminum-based platform. Power is stored in a 90-kWh lithium-ion battery that can carry it up to 234 miles. New for 2022: an 11-kW pack, it can do a full recharge in about nine hours using a 240 volt supply. A DC fast charger can accomplish the feat in 45 minutes for up to 80-percent. Expect a full (100%) charge in about an hour and a half.

How does the I-Pace EV400 look?

The Jaguar I-Pace is a compact SUV EV. It features a grille that is the unmistakable face of the cat, with a short hood and a swoopy backlight hatch. Broad wings (front fenders) and shoulders (rear fenders) give it a solid appearance and fill up a parking space rather quickly.

The grille is non-functional since there is nothing under the hood to cool. Instead, any air coming in is quickly released through a largish hood vent. Pop the hood release to see a Frunk (a front trunk) large enough to carry a few shopping or duffle bags. At the rear is a blocky, wide hatchback opening that features a power-opening function.

Inside the I-Pace

The Jaguar I-Pace E400 HSE interior is a combination of luxury and comfort in one svelte package. Start with Windsor leather seating surfaces covering well-formed bucket seats and a comfortable bench in the second row. Carry four people comfortably all day long or five in a pinch if needed. The rear seat is a 40/20/40 combination with 25.3 cubic feet of storage space behind it. Fold the seatback forward, and that space grows to 51 cubic feet.

Technology has never shined brighter on the Jaguars. The I-Pace includes an infotainment system based on an 825-watt Meridian surround-sound premium audio kit. There are 17 speakers, five USB ports, Sirius XM Radio and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.

There’s even a trick navigation system that lets you know where all available EV chargers are located and then calculates your charge level once you get there.

Behind the wheel of the Jaguar I-Pace EV400 HSE

The beauty of an electric vehicle is that its power is instantaneous. It’s like racing a slot car, except that instead of being in HO or 1:24^th scale, you are now 1:1. In other words: Lifesize. As a result, 0-60 mph comes on in 4.5 seconds. It’s fast!

This Jaguar has varying degrees of battery regeneration. This enables batteries to recoup some of the energy used by the electric motors. At its mildest setting, it occurs by simply applying the brakes. A more aggressive form allows one-pedal driving where pressing the accelerator makes the I-Pace go. Lifting it applies braking and regenerative power at the same time.

Adaptive air suspension helps the I-Pace handle twisty turns with ease. Brake-based torque vectoring provides an assist that helps carve the turns with even more agility. Credit goes to its ability to brake an inside wheel during a turn.

Learn more about electric vehicles to see if the Jaguar I-Pace EV400 is right for you.

Jaguar I-Pace EV400 Specifications