2008 Jaguar XKR Coupe

Leaping Higher

The curvaceous Jaguar XKR gets a new top model for 2008 that takes its luxury and performance to higher levels.

The XKR Coupe is Jaguar's highest-performing model. It is one of the most technically advanced Jaguars ever. For all its sophistication, it harks back to the classic XKE from the 1960s, with seductive, flowing lines, a low-to-the-ground stance, long sloping hood, and oval mesh grille.

What most impresses us about the Jaguar XKR Coupe is how it balances high performance and sharp handling with coddling comfort and luxury. It's actually rather large for a sports car, which translates to a placid ride on the highway. The downside is that, despite making use of a lightweight aluminum structure, the XKR Coupe feels at times unwieldy when being hustled around hairpin turns on a racetrack. But that's something most owners likely won't do anyway.

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The XKR goes a step further than the standard XK Coupe styling-wise, adding a unique color-keyed front bumper with integrated fog lamps, aluminum-finished side “power vents,” hood vents, exclusive wheels, and a new rear bumper with quad exhaust tips. Passengers are treated to supportive sport seats, and the cabin is dressed up with aluminum trim (more traditional burl walnut is a no-cost option). Meanwhile, the limited edition XKR Portfolio version gets a more luxurious interior, with Spun Aluminum trim (Satin American Walnut is optional), an alloy and leather-trimmed gear selector, contrast stitching on leather surfaces, and a high-performance Bowers & Wilkins audio system.

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The most significant enhancements to the Jaguar XKR Coupe lie beneath the surface. Foremost is a supercharged version of the standard XK’s V8 engine, which produces 40 percent more power.

• Jaguar XKR Coupe Vehicle Summary

The Jaguar XKR Coupe shares the same extensive use of aluminum as the standard XK Coupe. The rigid body structure affords sporty but secure vehicle dynamics and a quiet, sophisticated ride. A six-speed automatic transmission allows manual operation via racing-style paddles mounted on the steering wheel. The transmission's fully automatic drive mode adapts to individual driving styles, while a sport mode can also be selected for more aggressive shifts.

The Jaguar XKR Coupe rides on a stiffer suspension than the XK Coupe, and the car’s steering has been upgraded for improved handling. Settings for the advanced suspension system have been recalibrated to handle the supercharged engine’s added muscle. As with the standard model, the suspension system in the Jaguar XKR Coupe lets the driver switch between comfort and sport modes.

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The XKR Coupe gets larger brake rotors at the front and rear, as well as an improved braking system. The XKR Portfolio edition gets the largest discs installed in a Jaguar for even greater stopping abilities. Electronic brake-force distribution and hydraulic brake assist afford quick and confident stopping. Dynamic stability and traction control systems are included to keep the XKR in check under less than optimal conditions.