2009 Jaguar XK-R Convertible

By: Juan G. Robbin

The art of blending luxury and performance!

Jaguar XK-R Convertible (2009)

The current Jaguar XK body style, redesigned in 2006 comes in both coupe and convertible versions. However, due to the unique sloping rear hatch design, the convertible looses its signature distinctive elegance that’s designed into the coupe. Regardless of the difference, the

XK-R convertible is all Jaguar.

You can’t help but to admire and notice the sleek, sloping shape of the hood, the classic front mesh deep grille and the unique to the XK-R optional 20” wheels. All of this plus the retro side vents behind the front wheels, giving the XK-R convertible a contemporary yet an unmistakable Jaguar flair. There are the sporty, quad exhaust tips plus the “R” logo brake calipers, giving subtle hints that this is no ordinary Jaguar.

Once seated, you are greeted by comfortable and fully adjustable leather sports seats. Rear seats are better used for extra storage as opposed to trying to squeeze in passengers. There is simply almost no room even for the smallest of persons. The center mounted multi-function display manages the sound system, vehicle trip data, navigation and ventilation. The unit processor was a bit slow executing the commands and difficult to see if the top is down during a bright, sunny day. Since we last drove the XK-R in 2007 there have been some refinements, namely the obsolete telescoping power antenna is finally gone and it’s now integrated into the rear spoiler. There is more luxurious headliner fabric being used as well as interior upgrades that emphasize luxury.

Steering is superb, with its speed adaptive system that works just as you want it. The handling is crisp and direct, with just the right touch of feedback. The exhaust is fully active, giving way from a subtle rumbling sound when cruising to a full out burbling deep power note that gives you an evil smile every time you floor the throttle. Acceleration is impressive, so are the brakes. Feeling sporty? Then put the gear selector in the sports mode and use the paddle shifters. These will reward you with quick and effortless manual shifts through the six speed range. Downshifting with the paddles will reward you with sports like heel and toe-like throttle blips on the downshift that leave you feeling oh so wonderful. The powerful supercharged V8 in the XK-R was surprisingly miserly giving us over 18 MPG in mixed driving. We noticed a big blind spot in the rear corner of the top behind the passenger’s window due to the inherent design of the soft top. Regardless, it’s the price one pays for having a soft top as compared to a foldable hard top. Trunk space is shallow and tight, but usable, it is an advantage over most hard top convertibles.

The XK-R is a sexy soft-top convertible that does everything well, with understated, yet modern style and elegance.

The 2009 Jaguar XK-R convertible: One sporty, sleek cat!

MSRP: $93,400.00 MSRP (As tested): $103,960.00

Fuel Economy: (Observed): 18.2 MPG

Engine: V8, 4.2 liter, supercharged, 420 HP

Popular options: Adaptive cruise control, Bowers & Wilkins premium sound

Visit: www.jaguarusa.com