2007 Jaguar XK-Series

An entirely new XK Series emerges for 2007. Jaguar has offered the XK for ten years now, as a car that embodies the balance between performance and refinement, as well as between classic and cutting edge. The designer of the new XK is Ian Callum, who is also behind the Aston Martin DB7. With this new design, Callum pays tribute to the well-respected E-Type Jaguars of the early 1960s. Traditionally, Jaguar has embraced many of their previous styling attributes on new models, offering visible reminders of the British marque's glorious past.

The 2007 XK is roomier thanks to a longer wheelbase, better equipped, and lighter (due to an all-aluminum construction) than its predecessors. There are four models available for 2007, created from the combination of two trims and two body styles. The XK is the entry point in price, offered as either a coupe or convertible. The XKR is a high-performance variation also available with both body styles.

The standard features are similar for both trims, but the XKR adds some performance-oriented extras like larger wheels, larger brakes, more responsive steering, and a firmer suspension. Every XK includes xenon HID headlamps, leather/power/heated seats, wood trim, parking sensors, keyless start, DVD navigation, an in-dash CD changer, a steering wheel-mounted paddle shifter and Bluetooth.

Both trims are powered by a 4.2-liter V8 that generates 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque on its own. Upgrading to the XKR adds a supercharger, bumping horsepower up to 420. This power supply propels the XKR from 0 to 60 in about 5 seconds. All XKs include a six-speed automatic transmission, sending the power to the rear wheels.