I’ve just driven the new Jaguar electric I-PACE AWD SUV – the mid-spec SE EV400 to be more specific – priced at $130,200. First up, just last week the Jaguar i-PACE was voted 2019 World Car of the Year, 2019 World Green Car and 2019 World Car Design of the Year – impressive accolades from a very distinguished panel of world design experts and supported by a jury of prominent motoring journalists. In Jaguar’s words “the I-PACE’S dramatic cab- forward profile, short overhangs and taut muscular haunches give it a sense of drama which set it apart from other SUV’s” a very apt description as this is a very clever design by any measure and above all else, before your actually drive it, the architecture of this electric SUV is different to say the least. The design, helped by the lack of a large internal combustion engine up front allows a very spacious interior while Jaguar has gone all out with premium finishes. Externally, the SE grade I-Pace with its larger 20-inch wheels has a real presence on the road. From a sheer design sense it makes Tesla’s high roof Model X look dated and bulky. Jaguar has achieved a clever packaging size with rear seat legroom and headroom impressive despite its sporty profile. The moment you step into this new premium electric SUV it has a certain wow factor – My test car had a fixed glass sunroof which at $3,380 is expensive but provides a soft lit interior. But importantly perhaps how does it drive – more in coming segments. I’m David Berthon

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