THE success of the Jaguar F-PACE is much documented since it arrived with not so much a bang, as an explosion a couple of years ago.

Since it went on sale in April 2016 and has become the best-selling Jaguar ever, achieving worldwide sales success and receiving numerous global awards.

Instantly recognisable, it has something of the look of the firecracker F-Type about it with the big open mesh grille and slim headlights, huge front air scoops and eyecatching alloy wheels.

It was certainly a head turner and still is. Latest model enhancements this year include adaptive cruise control with steering assist and Touch Pro infotainment with 10-inch touchscreen.

The already excellent cabin quality has been further enhanced with suede cloth headlining and illuminated treadplates and optional new slimline sports seats.

The interior is real executive quality with the frameless rear view mirror, bright metal pedals, premium carpet mats and chrome seat switches on the 10-way adjustable seats.

Much of the interior equipment is familiar, having been round for a while now,with the likes of the rising rotary automatic gearchange controller, pulsing starter button and ambient lighting.

However, it still has a fresh modern look with the centrepiece touchscreen featuring 3D map viewing and control of digital entertainment, navigation, climate and safety. It can link to phone for voice control and access to compatible mobile apps, and gives you a Wi-Fi hotspot that's faster.

Safety gear is further enhanced and includes radar-based high-speed emergency braking which detects an imminent collision, alerting the driver and applying the brakes if the driver fails to respond.

Also standard now are a rear camera, front and rear parking aids, Driver Condition Monitor, Emergency Braking and Lane Keep Assist.

This is on top of the the normal kit you would expect of an executive class vehicle.

Available with a number of engines and trims and the choice of two or four-wheel drive it is no surprise it is Jag's best seller.

Which is pretty impressive when you think of the opposition from Audi, sister Range Rover Sport, BMW and Mercedes, not to mention the Volvo XC 60.

This model featured the powerful, yet surprisingly frugal three-litre V6 diesel.

Pumping out 300ps and bags of torque, it powers this heavy vehicle to 60mph in just under six seconds, with the excellent torque giving it that mid range boost when on the motorway.

Power is delivered instantly through the seamless eight-speed automatic gearbox and for a more engaging drive, theConfigurable Dynamics system allows you to set your own preferences for throttle, transmission and steering.

Considering the size and power of the engine, it is pretty economical with the claimed47.1mpg, which seemed pretty near the mark, certainly comfortably in the 40s mpg.

Emissions for such a big car are pretty good at 159g/km, but still enough to attract a 32 per cent Benefit in Kind tax rating.

Its nimble handling allows it to tackle most challenges twisting country lanes with confidence. The, double-wishbone front and integral rear link suspension gives better control at speed.

While its unlikely it will be used offroad that often, the on-demand all wheel drive capability means it will cope with most 'soft' off road conditions.

Plenty of performance then, but also practical. Boot space is impressive with space for four full-size suitcases, or twenty pieces of carry-on hand luggage, says Jaguar. The 40:20:40 split rear seats open up huge amounts of space when folded, while there are various other cubby holes and storage areas.