The 2019 Cullinan breaks a lot of new ground for Rolls-Royce. It is the first Rolls to have all-wheel drive, the first with a hatchback, and—in a more modest step forward—the first to use touchscreens for its infotainment system. Yet all that fades into insignificance next to the most obvious difference between this and every other vehicle Rolls has made throughout its 112-year history: This is the company’s first SUV. The production version is keeping its development code name, Cullinan being the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever found. With V-12 power and a price that we’re told will eclipse all its obvious rivals’, that model name seems appropriate. In what we can only assume is a knowing reference to Get Shorty, company CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös says it is the “Rolls-Royce of SUVs.”
The 2019 Cullinan is Rolls-Royce's first foray into the premium luxury SUV class.Part of the first Cullinan generation introduced for 2019.
Pros Unmistakable Rolls-Royce presence Interior craftsmanship is unparalleled An abundance of power from a turbocharged V12 Endless customization options
Cons Prohibitively expensive, even for the class Styling is awkward and bulky from many angles
For 2021, Jaguar gives the I-Pace a handful of improvements. The SUV now offers a complimentary 4G data plan, a 360-degree camera system, and wireless charging. The optional Bright package adds chrome exterior trim, Atlas Grey accents, and other minor styling changes. Inside, there's a new infotainment system that's said to be easier to operate than the one it replaces. Plus, it gains a feature that tells you where the nearest charging stations are and how long it should take to restore the battery.
PROS Quick and serene operation, graceful and engaging driving manners, branding and styling make a statement.
CONS Brake pedal has uneven feedback, underachieving range in the real world, sluggish 240-volt charging time.
The I-Pace won’t be for everyone, but hats off to Jaguar for making a car that steps boldly into the unknown, and shows those pesky Germans the way.
PROS Acceleration, interior space, big boot, brave exterior design
CONS Not cheap, better infotainment systems out there, claimed range is ambitious
PROS Genuinely innovative design Brings mainstream credibility to luxury EV market Responsive, accessible, seamless performance
CONS Lacklustre infotainment system Lack of 100kW charging infrastructure Intrusive stability control
