When Jaguar introduced the XKR in '99, it deftly followed its forebear's lineage: curvaceous body lines, supple leather interior, taut suspension, and a positive power-to-weight ratio. Powered by a supercharged 4.0L AJ V-8, the Jag ran 0-60 mph in 5.0 sec flat and the quarter-mile in 13.50 sec at 106.50 mph in our testing.
Specifications
Base price: $81,975
Vehicle layout: Front engine, rwd, 2-door, 4-pass
Engine: 4.2L/390-hp V-8 supercharged, DOHC, 4 valves/cyl
0-60 mph, sec: 5.2
1/4 mile, sec/mph: 13.63/102.97
Braking, 60-0, ft: 116
On sale in U.S.: Currently
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For '03, the XKR powerplant is enlarged to 4.2L, good for an additional 20 hp (to 390), and is now backed by a ZF six-ratio automatic, replete with a detent-rich J-gate shifter. Evidently, a weight gain of 106 lb for this year doesn't help things, as test numbers show an increase in the 0-60 time to 5.21 and 13.63 sec at 102.97 mph in the quarter mile. The power band is still strong and linear throughout the rpm range, with quick, precise shifts regardless of throttle position. Four-wheel Brembo disc brakes with ABS (and Emergency Brake Assist) stop it from 60 in 116 ft.
Underpinning upgrades include electronic dampers that continuously optimize ride and handling in milliseconds (good for a 63.9-mph slalom pass), and Dynamic Stability Control should the tail get a bit frisky in the canyons. Long-distance cruising is enhanced with optional radar-based adaptive cruise control.
Outside, the feline's flanks remain relatively unchanged, save the new standard Xenon headlamps, bonnet louvers, and badging. Inside, upgraded Recaro high-bolster seats are available, as well as leather-wrapped Momo steering wheel and shift knob.
Pricing holds steady, with the coupe starting at $81,975 and a fully equipped convertible topping at nearly $99,000--about the same as the new Maserati.