Jaguar XK

Overview: Is the Jaguar XK a Good Luxury Sports Car?

The Jaguar XK, a grand tourer that blends luxury with high performance, represents Jaguar's commitment to combining elegance and power. While the XK nameplate has a rich history dating back to the iconic XK120 of the 1940s, this overview focuses on the second-generation XK (X150), which debuted for the 2007 model year and was sold in the U.S. through 2015. Available in both coupe and convertible body styles, the XK aimed to compete with high-end sports cars while maintaining Jaguar's reputation for refined luxury.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Jaguar XK cars for sale.

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Related: The Jaguar XK Years To Avoid

Key Features

The Jaguar XK offers:

• Coupe or convertible body style
• All-aluminum monocoque body structure
• Choice of naturally aspirated or supercharged V8 engines
• Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
• Six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters
• Adaptive suspension system
• Available active exhaust system (XKR models)
• Jaguar Drive Control with dynamic mode
• Brembo high-performance brakes

Trims

The Jaguar XK-series included several configurations:

• XK: Base model with naturally aspirated V8
• XKR: Supercharged V8 for enhanced performance
• XKR-S: High-performance variant with more power and sportier tuning
• XKR-S GT: Limited-edition, track-focused model (2014 only)

Each trim was available with the Jaguar XK Coupe or Jaguar XK Convertible.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

British luxury is on full display in the XK’s cabin. The interior, designed under the direction of Ian Callum, features a driver-focused cockpit with an ideal blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology. Soft leather upholstery covers the seats and much of the dashboard, complemented by wood or aluminum trim.

The centerpiece of the dashboard is a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which, while not as advanced as some competitors', offers control over navigation, audio, and vehicle settings. The instrument cluster combines analog dials with a digital display, combining classic and contemporary design.

As a 2+2 grand tourer, the XK prioritizes front-seat comfort. The rear seats are best suited for occasional use or additional storage. Cargo space is modest, with the coupe offering 11.7 cubic feet and the convertible providing 11.1 cubic feet with the top-up.

Review: Which Years Of Used Jaguar XKs Are Most Reliable?

How It Drives

The Jaguar XK delivers an exhilarating driving experience that lives up to its sporting heritage. Engine options include:

• 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8: 385 hp (XK)
• 5.0-liter supercharged V8: 510 hp (XKR), up to 550 hp (XKR-S)

Power is transmitted to the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters for manual control. The XKR can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds, and its top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph (higher in some special editions).

The adaptive suspension system provides a comfortable ride in normal driving conditions but can firm up for more dynamic handling as needed. The Jaguar Drive Control system allows drivers to tailor throttle response, transmission shifts, and suspension settings to their preferences.

Despite its performance capabilities, the XK maintains Jaguar's reputation for refined cruising. The cabin remains quiet at high speeds, making it an excellent choice for long-distance touring.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) didn’t evaluate the Jaguar XK due to its low sales volume and niche market position.

Reviews

Jaguar XK consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book are overwhelmingly positive, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5. Owners praise several XK traits, including reliability, quality, performance, styling, and comfort.

Learn More: Are Jaguars Reliable? A Complete Breakdown

Jaguar XK FAQs

Is the Jaguar XK supercharged?

The base XK model features a naturally aspirated V8, while the XKR and XKR-S variants have supercharged V8 engines for increased performance.

Is the Jaguar XK a reliable car?

Jaguars have a mixed reputation for reliability, and the XK is no exception. Reviewing owner comments on Kelly Blue Book and other sites finds experiences ranging from no significant problems to mechanical nightmares. As a result, the XK’s dependability is hit or miss. It’s also essential to know that maintenance costs can be higher than average for a high-performance luxury car, and proper care is crucial for long-term reliability.

What does XK mean on a Jaguar?

Jaguar has used the XK designation since the 1940s, originally denoting a specific engine series. In modern usage, it represents Jaguar's grand touring models, carrying on the legacy of the iconic XK120, XK140, and XK150 sports cars of the past.

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