Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles feature what are called InControl systems and services. We find out exactly what they do and whether it is worth it.
While not too long ago, one could only expect a dot matrix screen with Bluetooth connectivity in some of the more premium vehicles, today one would be hard-pressed to find a vehicle without a colour touchscreen infotainment display. As digital technology advances, so does the features in modern vehicles and, for Jaguar and Land Rover products, this statement couldn’t be more accurate.
The British automakers have been incorporating clever infotainment systems as well as safety and security features into their vehicles under the name InControl. In this article, we will be breaking down what exactly falls under the InControl banner for both marques and find out if the optional items are indeed worth it.
What is InControl?
InControl Touch
InControl is a combination of features rather than just one. Owners will most likely first interact with InControl through the touchscreen infotainment system that is fitted to both Jaguar and Land Rover models. On models such as the Jaguar F-Pace and Land Rover Discovery, customers will have a choice between the standard InControl Touch and InControl Touch Pro infotainment configurations.
The standard InControl Touch takes shape as a centrally fitted 8.0-inch display interface that is driven by a powerful multi-core Intel processor. Owners can couple their smart devices to the system utilizing Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through which they can access popular navigation and music streaming apps amongst others. The system also incorporates a solid-state hard drive to store contacts and music.
InControl Touch Pro
The InControl Touch Pro system not only sees the above-mentioned items included but retains a larger display, 10.2-inch in the case of the F-Pace. Furthermore, customers can also expect a secure gigabit Ethernet connection to the internet should a data sim card be installed. This connection not only allows the onboard navigation to provide live traffic information and the latest maps but also allows the vehicle to cast a WiFi hotspot of its own for occupants to connect to.
The internet connectivity also provides owners access to features such as remote access to the vehicle via a smartphone app. The InControl app offers owners functionality such as viewing vehicle information remotely, such as the fuel level, estimated range and location. Furthermore, one can remotely activate the “Beep & Flash” which will turn on the lamps and activate the horn should you struggle to find your vehicle in a crowded parking lot.
Safety
Other functions include remote vehicle lock and unlock functions as well as a theft alert which is triggered should someone try to access the vehicle by force. When a potential threat is detected, the vehicle owner can alert local authorities and relay the vehicle’s location, which can be monitored through the application. The system also provides the functionality to alert local emergency services should it detect the vehicle was in an accident.
All of the standard optional safety systems are also featured under the InControl banner. This includes items such as adaptive cruise control, emergency braking, lane keep assist, blind-spot assist, traffic sign recognition with adaptive speed limiter, driver condition monitor and rear collision monitor for when the owner is busy driving.
For parking, the InControl system offers front and rear parking distance control, rear traffic monitor, clear exit monitor and optionally the impressive 3D Surround Camera.
Is it worth it?
While as standard most Jaguar and Land Rover models will retain even the most basic InControl systems, customers might wonder if upgrading it to the InControl Touch Pro system is worth it. When one takes into account that the upgrades not only bolster the infotainment experience of the vehicle but also the safety equipment, it makes sense to spend a little more on this area of the vehicle. With the dangers associated with travelling on local roads, it makes sense to have every possible safety system available to you.
Keyword: What is Jaguar Land Rover InControl? Is it worth it?