The compact luxury crossover SUV market is fiercely competitive, with manufacturers constantly vying for the top spot. Back in 2018, two titans clashed: the established Audi Q5 and the newcomer, the Jaguar F-PACE. While the Audi Q5, a veteran in the segment, boasted a strong reputation, the 2018 Jaguar F-pace emerged as a compelling alternative, quickly capturing attention and sales. Both vehicles were their respective brands’ top sellers, indicating their significance in the luxury SUV landscape. In 2017, the Q5 achieved record sales in the US, exceeding 57,000 units, while the F-PACE, in its debut year, impressively sold over 17,000 units. But when it comes to choosing between these two luxury SUVs, which one truly comes out on top? Let’s delve deeper into a comprehensive comparison.
Brand Legacy and Reputation: A Tale of Two Histories
Audi and Jaguar, while both prestigious automotive brands, possess distinct heritages that shape their identities. Audi’s roots trace back to Germany in 1909, undergoing periods under Daimler (Mercedes-Benz’s parent company) and eventually becoming part of the Volkswagen Group in 1966. This German engineering pedigree is often associated with precision, technology, and a somewhat understated luxury.
Jaguar, on the other hand, began its journey as the Swallow Sidecar Company in 1922, officially becoming Jaguar Cars in 1945. The brand’s history is marked by British automotive artistry, a focus on elegant design, and a sporting heritage. Jaguar’s path included mergers and acquisitions, including periods under British Motor Corporation, British Leyland, Ford, and finally, Tata Motors in 2008, which formed Jaguar Land Rover Limited in 2013.
Both brands have navigated challenging times and emerged stronger, earning high ratings for design, technology, performance, initial quality, and long-term reliability. While both brands have overcome past hurdles, their distinct origins contribute to their unique brand perceptions and appeals.
Exterior Styling: Assertive German Precision vs. British Athletic Elegance
The 2018 Audi Q5 presents a design that is undeniably Audi – crisp, athletic, and meticulously tailored. Its sharp lines and assertive stance are hallmarks of modern German automotive design. The prominent single-frame grille, adorned with the iconic four rings, immediately establishes its Audi identity. The sculpted hood and body panels, characterized by strong lines and deep contours, contribute to its dynamic appearance. The Q5’s tall wheel arches and integrated rear spoiler complete its polished and refined aesthetic.
In contrast, the 2018 Jaguar F-PACE exudes a distinctly Jaguar presence, showcasing the brand’s signature grille and purposeful air intakes. The muscular hood design seamlessly connects the grille to the flowing roofline, creating a sense of motion even when stationary. The body sides are elegantly sculpted, subtly flared fenders and a convex tailgate add to its athletic yet sophisticated profile. While the F-PACE boasts a slightly longer wheelbase (113.2 inches vs. 111.0 inches) and overall length (186.3 inches vs. 183.6 inches) compared to the Q5, its design language makes it appear even more substantial and visually striking on the road.
Alt text: Side profile comparison of the 2018 Jaguar F-PACE and Audi Q5, highlighting their different design languages.
Interior Ambiance: Minimalist Bauhaus vs. Driver-Focused Cockpit
Audi interiors are renowned for their minimalist design, often drawing inspiration from the Bauhaus movement. The Q5’s cabin embodies this philosophy with a wraparound dashboard featuring strong horizontal lines, creating a sense of spaciousness and width. The prominent infotainment screen is strategically positioned high on the center stack, ensuring optimal driver visibility. Audi’s virtual cockpit, an available 12.3-inch digital TFT instrument cluster, is a standout feature, blending functionality and visual appeal seamlessly.
The Jaguar F-PACE interior adopts a more driver-centric approach, crafting a cockpit-like environment. The instrument panel, center stack, and center console are thoughtfully arranged to envelop the driver. The infotainment screen is positioned lower on the dashboard compared to the Q5, situated below the HVAC vents. While both vehicles offer seating for five, the rear center seat in both is best suited for occasional use due to limited space and comfort. The F-PACE interior emphasizes a sporty and engaging driving experience, while the Q5 leans towards a more technologically advanced and minimalist aesthetic.
Alt text: Interior view of the 2018 Jaguar F-PACE showcasing its driver-focused cockpit design.
Alt text: Minimalist and technologically advanced interior of the 2018 Audi Q5 with virtual cockpit.
Engine Options and Performance: Diverse Jaguar Lineup vs. Efficient Audi Power
The 2018 Jaguar F-PACE offers a wider array of engine choices, catering to different performance preferences. The base engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine producing 247 horsepower (25t models), with a higher-output version delivering 296 horsepower (30t models). For enthusiasts seeking more power, the S model boasts a 380-horsepower 3.0-liter supercharged V6 gasoline engine. At the top of the range, the SVR model packs a formidable 550-horsepower 5.0-liter supercharged V8 gasoline engine. A fuel-efficient 180-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel four-cylinder engine is also available in the 20d version. Fuel economy for the 25t and 30t is rated at 22 mpg city/27 mpg highway/24 mpg combined, while the S achieves 18 mpg city/23 mpg highway/20 mpg combined, and the 20d excels at 26 mpg city/33 mpg highway/29 mpg combined.
The Audi Q5 presents a more streamlined engine lineup. The standard engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine producing 252 horsepower. The performance-oriented SQ5 variant features a 354-horsepower 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 gasoline engine. The Q5 is rated at 23 mpg city/27 mpg highway/25 mpg combined, while the SQ5 achieves 19 mpg city/24 mpg highway/21 mpg combined. While the Q5 offers efficient power, the F-PACE provides a broader spectrum of performance options, including a diesel and high-performance V8, appealing to a wider range of drivers.
Alt text: Engine bay of a 2018 Jaguar F-PACE showcasing its powerful engine.
Transmission and Drivetrain: Jaguar’s Standard AWD Advantage
All 2018 Jaguar F-PACE models come equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard, featuring Active Driveline torque on demand to the rear axle. The Audi Q5 and SQ5 also offer Quattro all-wheel drive, but it is not standard on all Q5 trims. The F-PACE utilizes a smooth and responsive ZF eight-speed automatic transmission across its range. The Q5 employs a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT), while the SQ5 is paired with an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. Paddle shifters are standard on both for manual gear selection.
A notable advantage of the F-PACE is the availability of Adaptive Surface Response, a sophisticated traction control system designed to optimize performance in various low-grip conditions, enhancing driver confidence and control in challenging weather or terrains.
Alt text: Close-up of the Jaguar F-PACE’s all-wheel drive system components.
Technology and Features: Jaguar’s Innovation vs. Audi’s Tech Prowess
The Jaguar F-PACE offers Jaguar’s InControl Touch Pro infotainment system, featuring a 10.2-inch capacitive touchscreen and an optional virtual 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster with full-screen navigation display and laser head-up display. InControl Wi-Fi, capable of supporting up to eight devices, is also available. A unique feature is the Activity Key, a waterproof, wearable wristband that allows drivers to leave their key fob securely locked inside the vehicle.
The Audi Q5 comes with a standard 7.0-inch high-mounted TFT infotainment display, upgradeable to an 8.3-inch TFT display. Audi’s “virtual cockpit,” MMI all-in-touch with handwriting recognition, a premium Bang & Olufsen audio system with 3D surround sound, and advanced keyless start, stop, and entry are among the available technology features. Both vehicles offer a compelling suite of technology features, with Jaguar emphasizing innovative convenience features and Audi focusing on cutting-edge infotainment and audio systems.
Alt text: Jaguar F-PACE infotainment system display showcasing navigation and vehicle functions.
Ride, Handling, and Braking: Balanced Dynamics vs. Sport-Tuned Agility
The Jaguar F-PACE utilizes a four-wheel independent suspension system (double-wishbone front/Integral Link rear), constructed largely from aluminum for reduced weight and enhanced stiffness. Ventilated disc brakes are standard on all models, with larger front discs on higher-performance variants. Torque vectoring and electronically assisted power steering contribute to its agile handling.
The Audi Q5 and SQ5 feature five-link front and rear independent suspension. Adaptive damping suspension is available on the Q5 and standard on the SQ5, while adaptive air suspension is an option for the SQ5. Ventilated disc brakes are standard on all four wheels. Steering is an electromechanical speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion system. Torque vectoring is integrated into the Quattro all-wheel drive system. The F-PACE is praised for its balanced ride and handling, while the Q5, particularly with optional suspension upgrades, offers a more sport-tuned driving experience.
Alt text: Audi Q5 demonstrating its handling and cornering capabilities.
Cargo Capacity and Towing: Practicality and Utility
Crossover SUVs are popular for their blend of passenger comfort and cargo versatility. The Audi Q5 and SQ5 offer 26.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 60.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Q5 has a towing capacity of 4,400 lbs when properly equipped.
The Jaguar F-PACE surpasses the Q5 in both cargo and towing capacities. It provides 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 63.5 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. The F-PACE also boasts a higher towing capacity of 5,291 lbs (with trailer brakes). For buyers prioritizing cargo space and towing capability, the F-PACE offers a clear advantage.
Alt text: Rear cargo area of the Jaguar F-PACE demonstrating its spaciousness and practicality.
Trim Levels, Features, and Pricing: Jaguar’s Value Proposition
The 2018 Audi Q5 is available in three trim levels: Premium (starting around $41,500), Premium Plus (around $45,500), and Prestige (around $50,800). The SQ5 performance variant comes in Premium Plus (around $54,300) and Prestige (around $58,500) trims. Audi provides a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and complimentary first scheduled maintenance.
Jaguar offers a wider range of seven 2018 F-PACE trims: base (starting around $42,065), Premium (around $44,775), Prestige (around $49,125), R-Sport (around $54,175), S (around $59,775), Portfolio (around $62,000), and the high-performance SVR (around $79,990). Jaguar’s warranty coverage surpasses Audi’s, with a five-year/60,000-mile limited warranty, five years/60,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance and roadside assistance, and five years/unlimited miles of Jaguar InControl Remote & Protect. While the base prices are comparable, Jaguar’s more comprehensive warranty and included maintenance add significant value over the ownership period.
Alt text: Lineup of 2018 Jaguar F-PACE trim levels showcasing different styling and features.
Final Verdict: The 2018 Jaguar F-PACE – A More Compelling Choice
When considering the 2018 Audi Q5 and Jaguar F-PACE, both are excellent choices in the luxury compact SUV segment. You might also consider competitors like the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Porsche Macan, Lexus RX, Infiniti QX50, Mercedes-Benz GLC Class, and BMW X3.
However, if you’ve narrowed your choice to the Q5 and F-PACE, the 2018 Jaguar F-PACE emerges as the more compelling option. While potentially requiring a slightly higher initial investment for comparable equipment, the F-PACE delivers a more distinctive and exclusive ownership experience, representing Jaguar’s pinnacle of achievement. You’ll benefit from greater interior space, enhanced towing capability, and the added peace of mind offered by a longer factory warranty and complimentary scheduled maintenance. The 2018 Jaguar F-PACE is not just a luxury SUV; it’s a statement.
Alt text: Front three-quarter view of the 2018 Jaguar F-PACE in motion, emphasizing its dynamic styling.
