Jaguar XK series (NEW FOR 2007!)

Impressions: What could possibly happen over the span of a decade? The new Jaguar XK series of coupes and convertibles replaces the previous 10-year-old design with all-aluminum construction, lighter overall weight, more interior room and a higher power-to-weight ratio. Certainly the styling is more up to date, although some might argue that the large grille mouth, while historically significant to the brand, is still somewhat derivative. The platform is all new, but the powertrains are largely based on the previous-generation's 4.2-liter V8. For 2007, the engine is rated at 300 horsepower in base XK models, while the high-performance XKR makes 420 (up 30 horses) with the help of a supercharger. Both are backed by six-speed automatic transmissions with paddle shifters located on the steering wheel. With a 3,670-pound curb weight, the XKR coupe cuts a wicked 0-60 m.p.h. rug at just 4.9 seconds (a second quicker than the base coupe). Base XK curb weights have dropped 200 and 300 pounds for the coupe and convertible, respectively. Bucking the trend toward building a retractable hard top, Jaguar elected to equip its convertible with a triple-layer soft top that folds in just 18 seconds. A folding hard top probably would have required more trunk space and rear passenger room to store, but Jaguar could have built just one model of XK to sell instead of a separate coupe and convertible. Still, the two choices give Jag drivers two completely different images: the only difficulty might be choosing since, according to Jaguar, there's a negligible difference in body strength by removing the roof and thus little difference in ride quality and general performance. Typically, a convertible is far behind a coupe in this respect. The interior of the new XK has been upgraded over previous models, perhaps more as a point of style than quality as Jag typically uses top-notch wood and leather. The style of the XK, however, is more fitting to the use of metal trim now, which is certainly the rage. Base price: $75,500 (coupe); $81,500 (roadster) Type: Two-door coupe/convertible Base engine (hp): 4.2-liter DOHC V8 (300) Optional engine (hp): 4.2-liter DOHC V8, supercharged (420) Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive Transmission: Six-speed automatic Mileage (city/hwy): 18/26 Safety: Front airbags; seat-mounted side-impact airbags; anti-lock brakes; traction control; stability control Weight (lb.): 3,520 Basic warranty: 4/50,000 Roadside assistance: Yes Web: jaguarcars.com