Sharing the show floor in Detroit with the new Jaguar XFR is the updated XKR. Available as either a coupe or a convertible, the new 510-hp all-aluminum Jaguar rips from 0-60 mph in an impressive 4.6-seconds (manufacture supplied data for the coupe). The engine in the updated XKR is the same direct-injection, supercharged 5.0-liter V-8 seen in the XFR. The sole transmission choice is a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters and based on our past experience with this setup, you won't miss a manual or dual-clutch option. There is also a new electronically controlled limited-slip differential and adaptive dampening, both fitted as standard. Click the above link to the XFR if you'd like more info on the engine, differential, and dampers.
The go-fast, two-door Jag also gains some of details from the XF inside. The rotary, JaguarDrive transmission selector is fitted including buttons to select winter and dynamic mode. Cooled seats are a newly available option.
Jaguar claims a big improvement in interior quality. Door casing are upgraded with saddle-stitched lines and softer-touch trim. A wider choice of interior color options, soft-grain leather and chrome highlights also are part of the changes for the 2010 model year. We welcome all of the improvements as our long-term XK was less than stellar when it came to interior quality and general appointments.
Outside, a new front bumper design is utilized and features a new lower mesh grille. Chrome detailing is also added on the window surrounds. A new body-colored rear spoiler and side vents are also fitted, as is a new rear bumper setup. Finally, LED taillights with twin reversing lamps are new.
The base XK model, the Portfolio, is also upgraded with many of the interior and exterior features found on the XKR. The 300-hp, 4.2 is no more, replaced by a 385 hp, normally-aspirated version of the XKR engine. The XK Portfolio forgoes the adaptive dampening and trick limited-slip diff. Nineteen-inch wheels are standard on all XK models, with twenty-inch wheels still available as an option.
We enjoyed our long-term XK as it was wonderful to drive and looked great. We're happy to see that Jaguar has upgraded the engines but, more importantly, the interior as that was one sore spot in our one-year test.
To read more about the 2010 Jaguar XKR, go to our 2009 Detroit auto show blogs coverage. All the latest blogs from the Editors of Automobile Magazine can be found HERE. We've got our whole staff wandering the floor at Cobo Hall bringing back live photos and more information about all the new debuts from Detroit.
For complete coverage of the 2009 Detroit auto show, click HERE.