Jaguar F-PACE vs Volvo XC90 vs Range Rover Velar: which one has the best infotainment system?

The premium SUV segment is a booming section of the automotive landscape right now. Luxury vehicle manufacturers are hedging all their efforts on their respective models in this segment as they're starting to account for a large percentage of their business. As such, great resources and effort are being thrown at these models to make them the pioneers of the respective brands. We're seeing industry-first advances being launched in these models.

Related: New vs used Jaguar F-Pace: what are the top 3 differences?

This also means that you're spoiled for choice when it comes to selecting a compact premium SUV and most offerings will only be separated by minor details. When you're spending just North of R1-million, you can be assured that you're not buying a bad vehicle. A lot of the decision will come down to personal preference and specific features that best fit your lifestyle.

Here's how the infotainment systems compare between three of the non-German offerings in this segment; the Jaguar F-Pace, Volvo XC90, and Range Rover Velar.

 

Jaguar F-Pace

There's good news if you've been considering a Jaguar F-Pace recently. In August 2021 the F-Pace model range was updated with the latest Pivi Pro infotainment system. This system is the latest in infotainment tech from Jaguar Land Rover and is markedly improved over older systems. The 11.4-inch full-colour curved-glass touchscreen rises out and away from the dashboard for a floating effect. It's powered by the latest version of JLR's electronic architecture and the operating system has been simplified for ease of use. You will now be able to access 90% of the features in two taps or less.

 

The system runs off of its own power supply and the system will boot up as soon as you unlock the doors, allowing devices to be connected and operational by the time you climb in. In fact, connectivity has been bolstered in this new system with a dual-SIM connection and two LTE modems to allow for uninterrupted data connections no matter where you travel. This also allows for automatic software updates (with over the air updates) to take place in the background while the system is in use.

It will accept the usual connections from Bluetooth with two devices able to share the connection and offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto along with wireless charging for supported devices. You still get AM/FM reception, iPod integration, voice control, USB input and an external aerial for improved call clarity.

 

Volvo XC90

The XC90 was one of the first Volvo offerings to present the portrait orientated infotainment system with tablet-like swipe functionality. This system has since filtered down into other models in the Volvo portfolio and has aged well considering the advances in infotainment technology and connectivity. The Sensus system is robust and comprehensive and while due for an update in the coming months, still fares rather well.

 

Three primary screens can be accessed on the large touchscreen interface, accessed by simply swiping from one side or the other. The home screen presents a tiled layout with several expandable areas presenting a variety of information on a single screen. Swiping in either direction will allow you to access settings or connectivity options while another is accessed by swiping down on the screen.

Newer systems currently found in the XC90 range offer AM/FM reception, USB input, Bluetooth connections and support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Spotify is also supported when equipped with a data connection. The tactile interface consists of a singular volume/power knob below the screen with several shortcut buttons for frequently accessed functions. Drivers are also provided with a multifunction steering wheel for hands-on control over the audio. 

 

Land Rover Range Rover Velar

For those looking for something a little more svelte, the Range Rover Velar is an attractive offering. Smooth lines and luxurious appointments meet and create a stylish package that's also great to drive. As the Land Rover Range Rover Velar comes from the same stable as the F-Pace, the technology is very similar with the main distinction being the execution. Both Pivi and Pivi Pro systems are offered in the Velar range with the Pro unit offered as standard from S-specification onwards. 

 

This system also offers features like dual-Bluetooth connections and SOTA (Software Over The Air) updates, native Spotify app integration and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone tethering. It too uses the new electronic architecture to provide instantaneous connections and ensure the system is ready to go by the time you sit down. Active Road Noise Cancellation helps create a quieter cabin and greater clarity from the audio system when listening to voice or music.

The Velar uses a dual-screen system with the two screens handling different duties, allowing for multiple displays concurrently. The top screen handles the infotainment and entertainment features with navigation presented in a widescreen format while the lower screen tackles duties pertaining to phone calls, vehicle setup and Terrains Response settings, as well as HVAC and climate controls with seat heating and warming functions displayed in the two dials.