Jaguar XKR Coupe (2010)

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.