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Jaguar XKR Coupe (2010)
by Barry Green,reviewed December 2010
JAGUAR HAS RARELY had a stable of cars as complete and competent as now.
Arguably. Never is the evidence so compelling as in its performance flagship, the XKR.
Here is a shapely alloy two-door body with enough styling cues to confirm its exalted E-Type peerage of some 50 years ago. Inside is all sumptuous luxury and quality, best emphasised by the R-branded fascia, dials, steering wheel and head rests. There’s superbly shaped leather seats that can be heated and cooled; suave suede headlining; a Bower & Wilkins premium audio system pulsing out 525 watts; and an inventory of features too long to list here.
Then there’s under the skin … In its 5.0-litre supercharged direct fuel injection V8, the XKR has not just the wherewithal to deliver powerhouse performance, but an engine that – mated with a slick-shifting ZF 6-speed automatic – also offers amazing tractability around town.
Even with 20-inch wheels, the ride is agreeably civilised and the steering, though a touch light, remains communicative always.
Handling is superb, thanks to the adaptive dynamic system - which controls body vertical movement, roll rate and pitch rate on the move in micro-seconds – and active differential control system, basically a limited-slip differential controlled via an electric motor capable of providing fully automated adjustment to vary its locking torque.
In all, the XKR is one immensely satisfying drive.
For
Performance, refinement, presence
Against
Minor ergonomic issues, restricted rear seating
Key features
Active differential control, adaptive dynamics, 20-inch alloy wheels, leather, premium audio, satnav, smart key, dual zone climate control airconditioning, immobiliser, alarm
Safety
Front/side airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brake distribution (EBD), emergency brake assist (EBA), 3-mode dynamic stability control (DSC), traction control (TC), tyre pressure sensors
Car Details
Vehicle make |
Jaguar |
Vehicle model |
XKR Coupe |
Vehicle type |
Luxury Sports |
Year |
2010 |
Price when new |
$254,915 MLP |
Current price range |
$ - $
|
Insurance |
Get a quote for car insurance |
Approved Repairers |
Our expert team of approved repairers can perform general and specialist repairs, including auto-electrical, air-conditioning, radiator repairs and automatic transmissions. |
Engine |
5.0-litre, supercharged V8 |
Max power |
375 kW @ 600-6500 rpm |
Max torque |
625 Nm @ 2500-5500 rpm |
Acceleration to 100 km/h |
4.8 sec (as tested, two occupants) |
Braking from 80 km/h |
21.4 m (as tested, two occupants) |
Economy ADR |
12.3-litres/100 km, (16.8, average, as tested) |
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This review is based on road testing conducted by The Road Ahead. Further vehicle reviews, in-depth comparisons and coverage of consumer motoring issues can be found in the Club's magazine. Prices listed were current at the time of review and are manufacturers list prices and do not include statutory and delivery charges. Prices can vary from time to time and dealer to dealer.