Jaguar XKR Coupe melds high performance, luxury
The Jaguar XK series of automobiles are undeniably good-looking machines. In fact, Ian Callum, the designer of the well-proportioned Aston Martins preferred by James Bond in recent cinematic exploits, and the second-generation Jaguar XK models, was quoted in the London Telegraph as saying he was inspired at the time by his “ideal woman,” actress Kate Winslet.
“She is naturally a very shapely woman, very British with an underlying integrity and ability. Like a car, she has got substance; she is not just a pretty face,” he said.
His first wife and soon-tobe ex, Lesley, was reportedly “devastated” at the news. Oh my.
The 2014 Jaguar XKR carries on with the same lascivious bodywork and sleek lines that, to this day, carry a strong resemblance to its upper-class cousin, the Aston Martin. The classic profile of a long hood, low roofline and sweeping rear hatch look every bit as good today as on the classic English sports cars of yore.
The XKR carries some unique additions to differentiate itself from the normally aspirated XK models. The two most obvious when running your eyes over the hood are the two heat exhaust vents, each with the word “supercharged” embossed on them. These are not just for show, but are functioning vents to aid in reducing the under-hood temperatures generated by the supercharged V-8 engine that lurks below. More on that subject a little bit later.
Jaguar has kept its iconic oval grille opening up front and with the XKR it is filled with black wire diamond mesh.
For 2014, Jaguar is including its Aero Package as standard equipment on all XKR models. Most prominent is the rear deck lid spoiler that aids in stabilizing the car with additional downforce.
The beauty of the 2014 Jaguar XKR is more than skin deep. The XK’s all-aluminum body construction is fundamental to the way the car performs. Using technology derived from the aerospace industry, it delivers a combination of lightness, strength and rigidity — the key to great sports car handling, superior performance limits and fuel efficiency. The high torsional rigidity delivers exceptional agility, reduced body roll and pinsharp cornering; less weight means faster acceleration and shorter braking distances when compared to an equivalent steel-bodied car.
As the driver, you will spend much of your time behind the wheel, where the seductive bodywork will, unfortunately, be less apparent, but you will enjoy one of the best cockpits in the business. A pleasing blend of fine leather, Piano Black veneer and Suedecloth Premium headlining, the Jaguar exudes luxury. The optional XKR Performance Seats ensure comfort and support no matter how fast you’re tempted to go on either road or track. Each front seat has myriad power adjustments and three memory settings.
The thick-rimmed leatherwrapped steering wheel has thumb-operated switches on either side of the centre hub to operate the entertainment system, cruise control and optional Adaptive Cruise Control. The steering wheel also features heating as standard.
If one looks closely, a fine mesh of wires is embedded in the front windshield. The entire glass surface is heated for optimal visibility.
The most popular device to show off to new visitors to the Jaguar cabin is the JaguarDrive Selector, which rises into the driver’s hand once the start button is pressed. The automatic transmission is initially controlled by rotating the large knurled knob, although enthusiastic drivers will appreciate the paddle shifters behind the steering wheel once they come upon a twisting road.
A seven-inch touch screen controls most major functions and keeps the number of conventional switches to a minimum. It is used to operate the in-car audio, Bluetooth, navigation and climate control.
The Jaguar XKR is luxurious, but the R stands for high performance and the long hood covers a supercharged 5.0-litre V-8 R engine that is both powerful and efficient. With twin air intakes, variable camshaft phasing and a sixth-generation Eaton supercharger, it delivers breathtaking acceleration and higher levels of power at all engine speeds. The benefits of the supercharger are instant throttle response and outstanding mid-range acceleration.