2020 Jaguar E-PACE

Sporty driving dynamics and eye-catching styling have been part of Jaguar's DNA for decades. Even when skeptics scoffed at Jag for capitulating to the demands of the SUV-buying public, nobody argued against the F-Pace's striking design and performance. Two years ago, the luxury automaker introduced the E-Pace, a smaller crossover that, like its big brother, successfully translated the gorgeous sheet metal of the F-Type sports car to a more passenger-friendly package. The 2020 Jaguar E-Pace improves upon last year's model by streamlining the trim structure and adding more features to the standard equipment list.

The 2020 E-Pace lineup is fairly easy to understand. There's the well-equipped base model, followed by the SE that includes additional luxury equipment. If you want more power, the R-Dynamic adds 50 horsepower. Finally, there's an HSE R-Dynamic that includes the high-output engine and even more goodies. Of course, there are also tons of optional extras so you can customize to your heart's content.

Once you spec your ideal configuration and jump behind the wheel, you'll find that the E-Pace is one of the most rewarding small crossovers out there. The turbocharged engine is potent — especially in R-Dynamic tune — and the handling is sublime. We're also huge fans of the luxe cabin materials and design.

There are only a handful of drawbacks, starting with the rear-seat headroom. Taller passengers might find the chopped roof makes it impossible to sit in the back. One more wish list item: a new touchscreen system. Jaguars have long suffered from sluggish, nonintuitive user interfaces, and that trend continues here. Overall, though, the E-Pace is a well-rounded subcompact SUV that brings driving thrills to this otherwise fairly ho-hum class.