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By Autotropolis Editors
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Strengths: |
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Great performance; standard navigation system; Jaguar luxury and cachet. |
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Changes: |
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The superb Jaguar XK was redesigned for 2007 and undergoes little change for 2008. Base prices for the coupe and convertible are unchanged, while the up-level XKR versions increase just $200. On the XKRs, a new Portfolio Package is available for $12,000 in either aluminum or walnut themes and include, among other goodies, 20-inch staggered-width wheels and tires with a new high-performance braking system, a 525-watt sound system with Bowers & Wilkins speakers, Sirius satellite radio, soft grain leather seating, and aluminum side vents. |
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Value: |
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Jaguar premiered this generation of the XK in 2007 with fresh styling and more powerful engines. Jaguar's traditional attention to luxury is present, with lots of leather, standard navigation, and a quiet ride, even in convertible form. The 2008 XKs are handsome vehicles, with styling reminiscent of Aston Martin, but with a base sticker price almost half that of the DB9. |
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Overview: |
Constructed mostly of aluminum, the 2008 Jaguar XK is significantly stiffer than prior generations. The 4.2L V8 engine is refined and powerful, and is mated to a six-speed sequential transmission with steering wheel paddle shifters. Underneath, the eCATS system actively adjusts the suspension to keep the ride smooth yet sporty.
Traction control and dynamic stability control are standard, and the roomy interior is even stocked with a standard DVD-based navigation system. The four-model lineup includes the normally-aspirated V8 XK coupe and convertible (with 300 horsepower) and their rakish alter egos, the supercharged XKRs (420 horsepower).
Jaguar aimed for a thoroughbred sports car with the XK and succeeded. The chassis has many aluminum components, helping the convertibles remain stiff enough to handle as respectable sports cars.
The transmission, with three settings, can be luxury smooth or razor sharp depending on the driver's mood.
Luxury is Jaguar's signature, and both XK and XKR come well-appointed and offer several customization options. On the XK, plenty of leather, aluminum, and two choices of interior wood trim make for a classy interior. Opt for the Aluminum Luxury package ($8,125) and 20-inch staggered-width wheels and tires are added, the dashboard gets wrapped in leather, the seats receive 16-way power adjusters, and the steering wheel is heated.
A Premium Sound Package ($1,875) adds a 525-watt amplifier and Dolby surround sound with Sirius satellite radio. An Advanced Technology Package ($2,500) adds adaptive cruise control and active front lighting.
The XKR can be made even more opulent. Owners select from either aluminum or three wood trims to begin with. |
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