2010 Jaguar XKR: it’s all style! October 10, 2009
Some cars you just fall in love at first glance – and that’s certainly the case with the Jaguar XK, and especially the super-juiced R model. To truly appreciate its style, you have to see it in person, since photos don’t seem to do it justice. It really is one of the most sexy vehicles available on the market today. And while limited numbers of the XK may indicate that Jaguar’s had a hard time finding buyers for this vehicle, it also means that this baby is all the more exclusive.
Aston Martin or Jaguar?
I realize I’m not the only one to have fallen hard for this British beauty. Or should I say Indian beauty? After all, Tata acquired both Jaguar and Land Rover two years ago. Several of my neighbours and other passers-by commented on its exotic, distinguished lines, though few of them realized it was a Jaguar. Many mistook it for an Aston Martin, no less. I guess that’s not surprising when you consider that the XK had the very same designer who was behind many Aston Martins back in the day when these brands were under Ford’ ownership.
There’s something deliciously sweet about being at the wheel of a car with Aston Martin lines, and especially when you know that the XK is available for significantly less. So you get an exceptionally exotic car with a much lighter price tag attached to it. The only danger is offending Aston Martin clients, but given that there are so few of them to begin with, why worry about that?
For its part, the XK has few rivals other than the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, which is the most popular of luxury coupes and roadsters. Challenging this vehicle is no easy task, considering its history and reputation.
The XK, however, is a definite charmer thanks to its lines – particularly when it’s decked out with the optional 20-inch tires. Its stature commands respect, and yet you can tell that it’s always ready to rumble. Its proportions are typical roadster dimensions, with reduced overhang and the interior cabin set further back behind a long hood.
Two engines
Under the hood the XK gets a little added power this year with a 5.0-litre V8 that pumps out 385 hp and a similar amount of torque. Drivers with a penchant for superior performances will like the XK R, as this vehicle comes with a supercharged version of the same 5.0-litre V8 engine. This means you get 510 horses – and a real beast of a vehicle. These two new engines allow the XK and XK R to give their competitors a run for their money, as they had more limited numbers last year compared to Mercedes or BMW, which offered the 6 Series and its sportier derivative, the M6. While competing with the diversity and especially the power of the Mercedes-Benz SL, at very least now Jaguar can consider itself in their league without blushing so much. Power is transferred to the rear wheels via an outstanding six-speed automatic transmission (the only gearbox available for it). Using a sequential mode instead, you can change gears manually with the paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. And yet I’ve got to admit that the automatic transmission has proven to be efficient. In manual mode, it takes less than 600 milliseconds to change gears.
The interior is just what you’d expect from a Jaguar: exemplary fit and trim and top-notch materials. The centre portion features a touch screen that lets you control all the different vehicle parameters, including the on-board computer, sound system, air conditioning and navigation system. Since both the XK and the XK R are considered 2+2s, don’t try packing in a bunch of friends for a joy ride. The back seats are much better suited for children because of their size, angle and seatbacks. The front seats, however, are comfortable and can be adjusted with all kinds of controls located in the doors.
On the road
Get behind the wheel of the XK and you’ll find that although it’s sporty, it’s more of a grand touring car. In fact, it’s really not a hard and fast sports car the way the BMW M6 or the Mercedes SL AMG are. But if you enjoy a vehicle that strikes a balance between performance and comfort, the XK is worth trying.
The steering on the XK is precise, though somewhat over-assisted. The chassis is pleasantly rigid, but there is perhaps too much weight in the front of the vehicle, which causes some oversteering when you drive it particularly hard. The XK R is even sportier thanks to its sport suspension and settings. But its primary appeal is without a doubt its 511 horses. Put your foot to the pedal and you’ll be nailed to your seat, as the sound of the V8 resonates around you. And the most notable element is clearly the power and torque this engine delivers, even at faster speeds. This vehicle just never seems to run out of breath!
The double-clutch sequential gearbox is an absolute pleasure. Thanks to the paddle shifters behind the steering wheel, you can go from gear to gear in the blink of an eye, without ever taking your hands off the wheel. Big brake callipers ensure that this vehicle can stop as quickly as it starts. In short, the XK R is generally a better example of what an XK should be, despite its heftier price.
In the end, it’s hard not to become smitten for the XK. Exotic lines and exclusivity earn this vehicle some longing glances. Unfortunately, Jaguar just doesn’t enjoy the same appeal it once had, and reliability remains erratic. Something to improve on!
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