Jaguar I-PACE Electric SUV Gets Official With 240-Mile Range To Battle Tesla Model X

Unlike most concept-to-production transformations, not much has been lost here with respect to styling on the I-PACE. The vehicle advances Jaguar's current design language and applies it to a lifted four-door "coupe" profile (even though we hate the coupe term when used for anything but a two-door).  It's a forward-looking design, without looking somewhat tacky like the Hyundai Kona Electric.

On the inside, the futuristic design trends continue with no less than three LCD screens. There's one behind the steering wheel, one mounted high in the dash (10-inch) to handle navigation and infotainment duties, and a third mounted lower in the dash (5.5-inch) to control HVAC settings (among other things).

But what everyone wants to know, of course, is how well does it perform? Well, for starters, Jaguar has mounted the 90 kWh lithium-ion battery pack low in the vehicle between the front and rear axles. In addition, the I-PACE is said to have ideal 50:50 front/rear weight distribution, which should contribute to increased handling performance (for an SUV).

Powering the I-PACE are two Jaguar-designed electric motors generating a combined 400hp and 512 lb-ft of torque. This potent powertrain can send the I-PACE from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. Top speed is listed at 124 mph. The I-PACE won't beat a Tesla Model X in a drag race, but we'd argue that it would look better doing it.

When it comes to recharging this beast, Jaguar says that owners can achieve 80 percent battery capacity "from empty" in 40 minutes using a 100 kW DC fast charger. Using a 230V AC wall charger at home, you can hit the same 0-80 mark in a leisurely 10 hours. With a full charged battery, the I-PACE is capable of driving up to 240 miles according to Jaguar.

Although pricing hasn't yet been announced, Jaguar will begin delivering the I-PACE to U.S. customers during the second half of 2019.