2005 Jaguar XK-Series XKR Roadster

The 2005 Jaguar XKR Roadster, part of the XK-Series lineup, combined high-performance driving with open-top sportiness and traditional Jaguar luxury. The two-door, four-passenger XKR Roadster was powered by a supercharged 4.2-liter V8 engine that produced 390 horsepower. A six-speed automatic was the only transmission available, which limited the sportiness of the XKR, according to some drivers and reviewers.

The car's interior was definitely upscale, with heated leather seats, extensive use of burl walnut for the trim and dash, a leather-and-wood four-spoke steering wheel, an electrically adjustable steering column, and an Alpine AM/FM stereo with a six-disc CD changer.

The roadster also came with electronic traction control, stability control, brake assist, and anti-lock brakes, but despite those features, it didn't have quite the driving precision and handling capability as the best roadsters from Germany, according to drivers and reviewers. In addition, the car's drop top resulted in some structural wiggle that wasn't evident in the XKR coupe.

Some felt the interior refinements, like the steering wheel, shift knob, and dash, provided more of a luxury feel than a sporty feel -- not necessarily a bad thing but noticeable in a high-performance vehicle like the XKR. Still, upgrades were available to give the car a sportier look for those who preferred it.

Overall, drivers liked the exclusiveness of the XKR Roadster, as well as its smooth ride, aggressive power, and luxury features. Interior leg room was spacious in the front, according to many drivers, although the back seat could feel cramped for adults. Some felt the exterior design was dated, and others were less than impressed with the car's stereo system. Still, drivers felt the high-performance XKR Roaders was the vehicle of choice in the 2005 XK-Series lineup.