JAGUAR XK COUPE FULL REVIEW

Jaguar XK Coupe full 9 point review

Performance

5 out of 5 stars

The standard XK has a 380bhp 5.0-litre V8, while the XKR and XKR-S use supercharged versions of this engine that produce 503bhp and 542bhp respectively. Even the XK delivers scorching performance, while the supercharged models are simply staggering. Although mere figures can’t begin to convey the intensity of the acceleration when you crush the accelerator to the floor, we can tell you that blasting from 0-60mph takes 5.6 seconds in the XK and just 4.2 in the XKR-S. Get the picture?
Ride & Handling

4 out of 5 stars

The XK’s ride can be quite unsettled over patched-up urban roads, but it gets better with speed, where it feels firm, but nicely damped. The steering weights up nicely in bends, too, and the XK always feels like a smaller car than it is, changing direction quickly and precisely. The XKR has stiffer suspension, but its ride is still far from terrible. Only XKR-S is overly firm.
Refinement

4 out of 5 stars

You'll love the V8 gurgle and growl, though it disappears when cruising. Less welcome is the tyre noise on coarse roads. The automatic gearchanges are smooth, though you notice them a bit more when braking hard with the gearbox in its sport setting.

Buying & Owning

2 out of 5 stars

This is an expensive car and it has running costs to match. So, whether bought privately or as a company car, it will cost you for the privilege of ownership - but then you wouldn’t even be contemplating it if you couldn’t afford it. Depreciation losses over three years could be over £50,000 (for the XKR-S).
Quality & Reliability

3 out of 5 stars

Jaguar’s reliability has been impressive in recent years, and the XK’s cabin feels solidly built. Unfortunately, many of the materials feel a little cheap given the XK’s hefty list price – the gearshift paddles, steering column and touch-screen surround are particularly disappointing.
Safety & Security

4 out of 5 stars

The XK has a pyrotechnically triggered bonnet lid, which pops up to protect pedestrians in the event of a crash. It's the only way Jaguar could retain a sleek, low nose while providing decent protection to people on foot. The expected active and passive safety features are all present and correct, and Jaguar security is usually very good.

Behind The Wheel

3 out of 5 stars

The XK's driving position is excellent and electric adjustment for the seat and steering wheel makes it easy to get comfy. It’s a shame, then, that the seats themselves are rather narrow. The touch-screen centre console minimises clutter, but it can be fiddly and hard to read in strong sunlight. A narrow rear window means that view behind is rather compromised too.
Space & Practicality

3 out of 5 stars

The XK has four seats, but the rear pair are so cramped and awkwardly shaped that it’s best to view them as storage space. There’s plenty of space in the front seats, with enough head-and legroom for tall adults. The hatchback tailgate gives better access than some rivals, but although the boot is long, it’s also rather shallow.
Equipment

4 out of 5 stars

Leather upholstery, heated seats, satellite-navigation, keyless starting, Bluetooth and dual-zone climate control are all fitted as standard, but you may want to add active suspension if you opt for the standard XK (it’s standard on the XKR and XKR-S). Portfolio trim brings higher quality interior fittings.