2002 Jaguar XK Series: Road Test

2002 Jaguar XK Series 

  • MSRP: $69,330 - $86,330
  • Invoice: $62,397 - $77,697
CG Rating

46

out of 100

View Another Vehicle

Our road test for the 2002 Jaguar XK Series includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Jaguar XK Series from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Jaguar XK Series, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Jaguar XK Series help you decide if a 2002 Jaguar XK Series is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

XK8 conv XKR cpe Class Average
7 8 7.8

Test XK8 convertible clocked 0-60 mph in 6.9 sec. Jaguar says XKRs take 5.3 sec, which seems accurate based on our test drives.

FUEL ECONOMY

XK8 conv XKR cpe Class Average
4 4 4.6

Test XK8 convertibles averaged 15-16 mpg, test XKR convertible 16.2. All versions require premium fuel.

RIDE QUALITY

XK8 conv XKR cpe Class Average
8 7 4

Calibrated for comfort. XKRs have tauter damping, but all models ride comfortably on most surfaces.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

XK8 conv XKR cpe Class Average
7 8 8.3

XKRs are more agile and controlled than XK8s, but these 2-ton cats are luxury tourers, not feline-reflex sports cars. Brakes make short, undramatic simulated panic stops.

QUIETNESS

XK8 conv XKR cpe Class Average
5 5 3.6

Jaguar's V8 is nearly silent at idle. XKRs add a modest whine to the muted full-throttle growl, but never annoy. Low tire noise too, but convertibles suffer noticeable top-up wind rush.

CONTROLS

XK8 conv XKR cpe Class Average
5 5 5.3

Attractive and generally hassle-free, reflecting the influence of Jaguar parent Ford, though some control markings aren't that obvious. Cabin ambiance is Old World leather and wood, and assembled with appropriate care.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

XK8 conv XKR cpe Class Average
4 4 5.1

Comfortable seats, but cockpit is cramped for tall folks. Low build, wide door sills hamper entry/exit. Shallow side and rear glass impede driver visibility.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

XK8 conv XKR cpe Class Average
1 1 .6

Seat shaped and sized only for two tiny toddlers, so use it for cargo instead--as you may need to.

CARGO ROOM

XK8 conv XKR cpe Class Average
2 2 2.1

Not much unless you use the back seat. Coupes have 11.1 cu ft on paper but not in practice, convertible trunks only 9.5.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

XK8 conv XKR cpe Class Average
3 2 4.2

XKs shine for silky performance in an elegant package with Jaguar's usual charm. Interior room is tight and prices are steep, however, while resale value pales against BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz rivals.

Total Score

XK8 conv XKR cpe Class Average
46 46 45.6

Total Score: 46

Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars

Low Score
34
Average Score
45
High Score
61

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