2007 Jaguar XK Review | Buyer Guide
New Jaguar XK Delivers with Style, Performance
What is it about Jaguar sports cars that makes them so special? Performance is one thing, but styling has been equally important. As long as I can remember, Jaguars have had great looks. The post-war XK120 was a show-stopper. The XKE of 1961 was an instant classic. And when the XK8 debuted a decade ago, it blew away the automotive press. Now, there’s a new XK, and it is carrying on the tradition of past Jaguars with terrific styling. This is a car that causes you to step back and say “wow,” when you first see it.
The new XK, which comes as a coupe and a convertible, looks a lot like its predecessor at a distance, but it is much more muscular when viewed close-up. Although the length is the same, the wheels are pushed out further to the corners on the ’07, giving it a more powerful stance. Viewed from the front, it looks like it’s crouched and ready to spring.
The interior is classic Jaguar. It is as inviting as an English drawing room, with lots of leather and burled walnut trim. My test car even had leather on the dash. Yet, the instrument panel was a simple affair, with just two analog gauges and a clever digital clock (made to look analog) in between them.
This latest Jag is roomier than its predecessor, thanks to a longer wheelbase. Most noticeable for me was the extra two inches of seat travel up front. There was plenty of room for my 6’2″ frame, which is something that was lacking before. The backseat is devoid of legroom, and is good only for stowing odds and ends. However, the hatchback trunk in my test car would swallow up enough luggage for a weekend trip.
Jaguar equips the XK with standard luxury features, like back-up sensors to help with parking, and a touch-screen system for audio, telephone and navigation. This latter system is not as intuitive as some others available, and surprisingly, it doesn’t include satellite radio. However, one feature that received no complaints was Jaguar’s Smart Key. This feature enables the driver to open the doors and start the engine, just by having the key on their person. It is something you really appreciate on a rainy day.
Under the hood, the XK uses Jaguar’s 4.2-liter, V-8, with improved fuel injection, that pumps out 300 horsepower. This engine emits a sexy growl when you hit the accelerator. Completing the drive train is an updated six-speed automatic. Jaguar has abandoned the old “J-gate” shifter, and has adopted a sequential system, with a sport mode, and paddle shifters on the steering wheel. The XK is responsive enough in the drive position, but slide the gear selector into the sport mode, and the transmission holds the engine in gear longer for heart-pounding performance. Sixty-mph can come up in less than six seconds.
The XK gets an all-aluminum body, which is lighter and stronger than the one on its predecessor. The new XK feels more nimble tackling twisty roads. The steering is razor sharp, and the suspension is tuned for true sports car driving. The Jag takes corners with speed and poise. Furthermore the brakes will haul you down from 60 in a mere114 feet. However, those who have driven the old XK8 may not find the ride quite as supple on the new model. Back roads, with uneven pavement, caused the XK to bounce around more than I expected. However, on the freeway, it’s an absolute delight.
Pricing for the 2007 XK starts at $75,500 for the coupe and $81,500 for the convertible.
Snapshot Review
Dynamite Styling
Responsive Power Train
Sporty Handling
Sometimes Bumpy Ride
Specifications
Base Price (Coupe) $75,500
Engine 4.2-ltr, DOHC, V-8
Horsepower 300
Transmission 5-sp auto
Brakes disc, ABS
Gas Mileage 18-27 mpg
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