Jaguar XK is one fast beauty
By: Nancy Dunham
Special to The Examiner
October 29, 2009
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| The 2010 Jaguar XK boasts curvy good looks and a 5-liter V-8 engine. (Courtesy photo) |
You know how people always say that photographs don't do certain celebrities justice?
That's also true of one of the celebrities in the auto world, the 2010 Jaguar XK. Even "non-car people" take an extra minute or two to check out this long, curvy beauty. Yes, photos show this car is a looker -- but there's no way an image can truly show you the beauty of this sports car.
2010 Jaguar XK
» Engine: 5.0-liter V8
» Transmission: Six-speed automatic
» MSRP: Starting at $83,000
I drove the coupe, not the convertible, but just as you'd expect, both have ground-hugging bodies and long hoods. They also boast sport mesh grilles and side power vents, twin hood louvers and quad exhaust tailpipes.
A turn of the key, and the heated side mirrors slowly power out. They're angled a bit low for some but have special glass that reduces glare. That's a nice feature.
But don't be surprised if you don't even notice the mirrors thanks to the growl of the motor, a 5.0-liter, naturally aspirated V-8 direct-injection engine.
That's a nice extra, but what does it really give you? Basically this engine provides a superb, flexible driving experience with split-second throttle response.
Now Jaguar boasts about the efficiency of the engine. You might find that laughable considering the 16 mpg city and 24 mpg highway ratings, but when you feel the power behind the wheel, you'll understand. This is a sports car that's ready to run, fully living up to the Jaguar name.
Anecdotal reports note the XK goes from zero to 60 in under six seconds. The best way to express the speed is to steal a line from an enthusiast who says it looks like it's traveling 200 mph when it's standing still.
Add to that the finely tuned exhaust that emits that growl and you're ready for some fun. Of course, Jaguar has all kinds of bells and whistles, including double wishbone coil springs, Dynamic Stability Control and anti-roll bars to keep you safe as you're cruising along.
As you'd expect, the car's handling and braking are both incredibly responsive.
But let's go back to creature comforts such as those found in the cockpit. Slipping behind the wheel is like fitting into a smooth glove. Soft leather, highly polish wood, knobs and buttons, and all kinds of high-tech extras -- there's no scrimping on luxury here.
This car is built for four, but you're likely never going to use the back seat for passengers -- at least none that are over 18. This car isn't built for families, but really, who cares? This is the car for someone who adores driving.
You can tell that right away, just moving your hand from the Jaguar logo on the steering wheel to all the high-tech controls in the center console.
This is a sophisticated car with intuitive systems that fire up a Bower and Wilkins sound system, dual climate controls, navigation, system preferences and all kinds of audio extras, including Bluetooth.
The Jaguar XK is a true beauty you have to experience to appreciate.
