The Opinion: Jaguar XKR, the old cat still has something to offer

Porsche has released the new 911 and Mercedes has unveiled plans for a new XKR rival from AMG. Now, in 2012, I wondered if the current XKR would have anything to offer in the face of newer, fresher, more technologically advanced rivals.

Jaguar upped the power output to 503 bhp in 2009 and fitted a continuously variable damping system which, theoretically at least, responds to driving style and road conditions. Meanwhile, a new electronic differential helps transfer the extra horsepower onto the bitumen.

The first thing you notice when hopping inside the XKR is the new cylindrical gear selector, it freshens up the interior up to a point, but the big Jaguar is now a generation behind its major rivals. The touch screen navigation in particular is not intuitive to use and looks cheap, especially when surrounded with silver colored plastic. It is not an unpleasant place to be, but its replacement will need a significant update.

It is clear that the new engine transformed a quick car into an extremely fast one. Not only does it dispatch the 0-60 mph sprint in 4.6 seconds (down from 4.9 sec for the 4.2 litre engine), but 561 lb ft between 2500 and 5500 rpm means that it is significantly quicker where it counts, in the mid-range (listen to the accompanying video, see below). The XKR can now swat traffic aside with consummate ease.

The chassis strikes a lovely balance between ride comfort and agility. The chassis is composed, with only a small amount of thump emanating through the cabin over aggressive bumps. It feels reasonably eager to turn in and is predictable when pushed close to the limit. However, not many people will push to the chassis extremis. They are more likely to revel in the engine torque and the lazy nature of the chassis when not going quickly.

The XKR represents great value as a used car today, but it would take a wealthy Jaguar enthusiast or a strong deal to persuade you to buy a new one. It is difficult to exceed 20mpg, and the major competitors are now offering diesel engines and gearboxes with more ratios. It will be interesting to see what Jaguar has in store for us. For one, I’m looking forward to Mike Cross’s genius twinned with a powerful diesel and the latest 8 speed ZF automatic gearbox.

In the mean time, the 5.0 XKR is still good enough to command a healthy 4 star rating.

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