Even bigger cat!

zoom

The dash is pretty good, with a central screen that seems to control almost everything. It's all pretty obvious stuff, even down to programming the stereo. Steering is light and the wheel holds a range of sensitive controls.

The XKR isn't the easiest of cars to drive in traffic, mainly due to its long bonnet and low front, but on a highway or winding road, it really comes alive. This is a car that can travel vast distances very quickly indeed. Handling is hindered by its sheer size and weight, but it can still dance when asked. The car corners flat and has little roll. With the traction control off it can be a real handful, although it's no hooligan.

The engine is a joy, picking up power and accelerating from any speed. The torque available is immense and allows seemingly impossible overtaking manoeuvres.

The gearbox is accurate and the paddle shifts excellent, giving a positive change when used. Or drivers can simply put it in D and enjoy the ride, which is unusually entertaining for a fully auto. The exhaust note is superb, even at a standstill and echo filled streets will have you returning for another go. The deep V8 burble is quite loud for a change, but it's very satisfying.

This is understated elegance with a large dose of attitude. Forget it if you have a family to cram in the back and it's not much use for towing a trailer, but if you want to get up before everyone else, put on your old Ray Bans and go for a blast through the mountains with the soundtrack of ‘Shaft' playing in the background, there really isn't anything better.

People may say ‘wow' at a Ferrari or Lamborghini, but with the Jaguar they just nod knowingly. The XK is a supercar that people can actually see themselves driving and with the extra power of the excellent R it manages to live up to its superstar looks.

Verdict: The XKR is your thinking man's sports car, as it's less hectic than some of the opposition. It's also better than the Maserati Gran Turismo, better looking than the BMW 6-Series and more exclusive than an SL and that's really saying something!

Engine
4.2 Litre V8 Supercharged

0-100 kph
4.9 secs

Top speed
250 km/h (Limited)

HP
250 km/h (Limited)

ME price
From US$106,300

Print | Email | Discuss this article

| Share |

READERS' COMMENTS

Click here to post a comment

Add your Comment All posts are sent to the administrator for review and are published only after approval. ArabianBusiness.com reserves the right to remove any comment at any time for any reason. Please keep your responses appropriate and on topic. Arabian Business would like to point out that only comments relevant to the story will be published. Any containing personal insults or inappropriate language will not be approved.
Name *
Remember me on this computer
Email *	(Your email address will not be published)
City
Country
Subject *
Comment *
Notify me of further comments
Enter the words above *
Please click post only once - your comment will not be published immediately.

MORE FROM ARABIANBUSINESS.COM