The Jaguar F-Pace has been in existence for quite some time, and it appears that it may have slipped from the spotlight. Despite this, my recent experience with the F-Pace, particularly the R-Dynamic S with the P400 engine, has left a lasting impression.
It holds its own alongside top-tier SUVs like the Porsche Macan and Aston Martin DBX, offering a driving experience that is truly commendable. The steering alone deserves a chef’s kiss.
However, let’s shift our focus to cargo capacity, setting aside driving impressions. While the F-Pace is larger than compact SUVs such as the Mercedes GLC and BMW X3, it falls short of the dimensions of a GLE or X5.
Its size is comparable to the Lexus RX, a vehicle I happened to have tested for luggage space just last week – talk about perfect timing!
According to the specs, the F-Pace boasts 26.6 cubic feet of space behind the back seat. I suspect this volume measurement considers the space from the floor to the top of the seat back or approximately the cargo cover.
This assumption is not only based on my findings during this test but also because the F-Pace was initially reported to have 33.5 cubic feet when it was introduced in 2017. Regardless, this ambiguity is precisely why I conduct these tests.
Examining the cargo area, it is deep and wide, with a reasonable lift-over height. The sliding rail system that originally ran the length of the cargo area has been replaced by fixed tie-down points.
A rigid cargo cover is in place, likely beneficial for noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), but less practical for cargo hauling. I will conduct tests both with and without this cover.
In my standard Luggage Test, featuring two midsize roller suitcases, two roll-aboard suitcases, and a smaller roll-aboard, all bags fit underneath the cargo cover, confirming the suspicion about the current cargo volume measurement.
Although the fancy bag is slightly squished, it fits. Comparatively, the Lexus RX performed better, possibly due to its wider cargo area.
Removing the cargo cover reveals that everything fits comfortably, surpassing the performance of many compact luxury SUVs I’ve tested.
Adding bonus items like a 38-quart Coleman cooler and a small cylindrical duffle bag leaves some extra room, making the F-Pace marginally better than the RX due to its greater cargo area height.
Attempting to categorize the F-Pace’s size remains a challenge. If considered compact, it excels in its class; if deemed midsize, it aligns with typical expectations based on its price.
Addressing other aspects of the F-Pace’s cargo area, a fold-up box/bag for securing groceries is a thoughtful addition. This accessory, which perfectly fits in the underfloor storage area, showcases well-engineered packaging.
Notably, it wasn’t listed on the window sticker but proved to be a great feature. However, it may not be included with the $550 full-size spare tire option.
On the downside, a less favorable feature is the oversized plastic liftgate latch that hangs down, posing a potential head-bumping hazard. Additionally, the F-Pace’s remote pulls for dropping the back seat down are convenient for maximizing cargo capacity but are not frequently discussed.
