Jaguar XK R Automotive Review

amanico · 2021-06-01T09:54:20Z

Explore the Jaguar XK R through amanico's lens, comparing it to the F-Type and delving into collector insights on its design, performance, and market position. Discover why this GT remains a topic of discussion.

amanico

WPS member · Automotive forum

45 replies8597 views3 photos

Nicolas 'amanico' shares a captivating visual exploration of the Jaguar XK R, inviting readers to appreciate its design nuances and consider its place in automotive history. His personal reflections on the XK R's charm, engine, and body lines, contrasted with his preference for the F-Type, provide a compelling starting point for a broader discussion on Jaguar's design evolution and collector appeal. This article delves into why the XK R continues to resonate with enthusiasts, even years after its production.

We posted some pictures of the Jaguar E Type and the XJ S, here are some nice pictures of the XK R, now.

Credit: Carandclassic:

I have to confess that I always turned around the idea of getting a Jaguar, but that I never made the plunge.

Like the two others, the XK R has a lot of charm. I love its engine, the body, but I am less fan of the front lights, and I can live with the rear lights, even if they are not totally my taste.

And, to be honest, the F Type took my heart, as I find it very convincing. And its smaller proportions are perfect for me.

Best,

Nicolas

Key Points from the Discussion

The Jaguar XK R, along with the Type S, represents the last generation of Jaguars that truly embodied the brand's traditional design hallmarks, such as the distinctive front grille, which newer models have moved away from.
A common dilemma for collectors is choosing between the Jaguar XKR and the Aston Martin DB7, often questioning if the DB7 is merely an 'upgraded' Jaguar or if the XKR offers comparable value at a lower price point.
While modern Jaguars have embraced high-tech features, some enthusiasts lament the shift away from the brand's traditional focus on luxury and wood interiors, desiring more offerings that serve as a cheaper alternative to Rolls-Royce or Bentley.
Early models of the XK R could suffer from build quality issues, with reports of interior trim and even door handles detaching during test drives, despite the car's overall appeal.
The Jaguar XK R, particularly older models, falls into a 'dangerous category' regarding Low Emission Zones, being too new for waivers but producing too much CO2 for admission, posing a challenge for owners in certain regions.
For some, the Jaguar XK8 offered a more comfortable fit compared to the Aston Martin DB7, leading to a satisfying ownership experience as a grand tourer.

The Discussion

VinnieD

Jun 1, 2021

But then again, I was too young to think about reliability etc. Superb old school grand tourer, would love to give it a try, probably in convertible form cruising along the Californian oceanside

Arronax

Jun 1, 2021

Brand new model, half the car came apart before and during the test drive. The door handle detached from the body as I got in the driver's seat and several pieces of interior trim fell off during the test drive. I still like them, the backseats are useless but I may get one when I get old(er).

Jp75

Jun 1, 2021

Beautiful car, I really like the design and as mentioned in the thread - a great GT. Every now and then I always (re-)consider it but somehow always struggled with one question (which so-far has hindered a purchase): XKR vs dB7: I always wondered whether the DB was a „upgraded“ Jaguar or if the Jag was the better deal, offering 90% of the Aston-Martin for much less? And accordingly always got stuck in my considerations. Right now I would tend to go for the Aston Martin for emotionale and non-rat

Subexplorer

Jun 1, 2021

You know I love Jaguars... They make some great and beautiful cars today but (in my humble personal opinion) they stopped making Jaguars which look like Jaguars. They abandoned some “hallmarks” which identfied the brand, e.g. the front grille. Rolls, Mercedes and BMW keep their grilles in their modern cars... more stylized of course but keeping the spirit and tradition. Guess the XK R here and the Type S were the last Jaguars that looked like Jaguars. That’s why I like them so much. Abrazos amig

Watchonthewrist

Jun 1, 2021

Wanted to get a AM DB7 but couldn’t fit behind the wheel. Bit to tall for the car😬 , same dealer had also a Jaguar XK8 in the showroom, perfect fit . Got one and drove a lot of years with a big smile on my face.

VinnieD

Jun 1, 2021

They also fall in the dangerous category with regards to Low Emission Zones: too young to get a waiver and producing too much CO2 to be admitted. A friend is trapped in this hole with his Ferrari 456: not a good place to be

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Automotive forum with 45 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →

Key Points from the Discussion

Continue the conversation

More from this Forum