Model Strengths:

Choice of high performance or higher performance; coupe or convertible; luxury and sport in one car

Model Overview

The Jaguar XK can be had as either a coupe or convertible, which are nearly identical but for the triple-lined fabric roof of the convertible. Both models feature a 5.0L V8 engine that makes 385 bhp and 380 lb-ft of torque. This means the XK can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds. The XKR comes with a supercharged version of the same 5.0L, which is capable of 510 bhp and 461 lb-ft of torque. An XKR-S model, new for 2012, tunes that same engine to 550 hp output. The engine is mated to a 6-speed ZF transmission with paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. The rear-wheel-drive XK or XKR can also be set in automatic mode using the JaguarDrive Selector, a silvery knob that rises from the center console when the ignition is fired up. Handling and safety systems are comprehensive, and include standard anti-lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, emergency brake assist and stability traction control. Tire pressure monitoring and front and side airbags for the front passengers are also included. The XK's luxurious appointments start on the outside with rain-sensing windshield wipers, heated mirrors, automatic headlights with their own little wipers and a front and rear parking aid. Inside, 16-way leather seats are standard, as is the heated leather steering wheel. A 7-inch touch screen supplies all kinds of information, from the time to the sound system to the parking assist information. The 525-watt stereo has a 6-CD in-dash changer, plus MP3 capabilities and an interface for portable audio players. Bluetooth telephone connectivity is standard, too. What isn't standard on the XK and XKR? Very little. Apart from a generous selection of 19-inch and 20-inch wheel styles, a heated windshield and HD radio can also be added for a couple hundred dollars each. The $2500 Advanced Technology Package adds adaptive cruise control. A new-for-2012 Dynamic Pack on the XKR adds revised suspension tuning, a bigger rear wing and a higher top-speed.

Model Changes

A new "Dynamic Pack" package available on the XKR includes 20-inch wheels, red brake calipers, high-performance tuned suspension, a bigger rear spoiler and a higher top speed. The 75th Anniversary XKR has been dropped for 2012. In its place, a new XKR-S debuts, which adds 20-inch wheels, active exhaust with quad tips and dark exterior trim and 40 more horsepower out of the 5.0L supercharged V8.

Model Value

The XK covers both the ultra high performance and super luxury bases but is priced thousands cheaper than a Maserati Gran Turismo or Aston Martin Vantage. The XK coupe offers remarkable luxury in base trim and in world-class performance in the top-of-the-line XKR-S trim.