First Drive Review
The 2007 Jaguar XK is beautiful. There's no denying that. And with its technologically advanced, lightweight aluminum structure, it is stronger and more responsive than ever. But in terms of speed, it's more housecat-being-chased-by-a-Doberman quick, not cheetah-chasing-a-gazelle fast.
Enter the XKR, equipped with a supercharged version of the 4.2-liter V-8 found all over the Jaguar lineup. This is the most potent version we've seen yet, with 420 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque being sent to extra-fat 19- or 20-inch rear wheels wrapped with tires aggressive enough not to be transformed into black pools of molten rubber every time you poke the go-pedal. Compared with the previous XKR, the 2007 model features enhanced breathing characteristics that freed up an additional 30 horsepower, whilst quelling supercharger while to allow the baritone exhaust note come through more clearly. 0-60 is said to be 4.9 seconds, a claim we will verify in an upcoming road test.
Enhancements have been made in other areas as well, including the springs, which are about 38 and 24 per cent stiffer front and rear, respectively. A rear shock tower brace was installed to add structural stiffness, but that was the only change made to the body itself. Significantly, both coupe and convertible models have the same suspension tuning, which speaks highly of the stiffness of the convertible's topless structure. Brakes, too, have been upgraded to help the XKR's deceleration match its acceleration.
The XKR's styling has been changed in subtle but significant ways. The metal mesh grille returns, a hallmark of all R-badged Jags. Fog lights are set in chunky surround pieces which are in turn set within a more aggressive front fascia. Functional, two-hole hood vents and a swath of metal on the side vents are represent more jewelry, while fat quad pipes set off the rear end.
The XKR's interior is basically the same as that in the XK, with standard, patterned aluminum trim (which can be swapped for wood, should one desire a more traditional look) and sport seats covered in premium leather. Prices have been set at $86,500 for the coupe and $92,500 for the convertible, placing it below its more powerful competitors such as the BMW M6 and Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG.
