2003 Jaguar XK Series: Road Test
2003 Jaguar XK Series ▼
- MSRP: $69,330 - $86,330
- Invoice: $63,091 - $78,561
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Our road test for the 2003 Jaguar XK Series includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Jaguar XK Series from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Jaguar XK Series, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Jaguar XK Series help you decide if a 2003 Jaguar XK Series is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| XK8 cpe | XK8 conv | XKR cpe | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8 | 7.7 |
Test XKR coupe did 5.5 sec 0-60 mph. No opportunity to time 2003 XK8, but it feels strong from all speeds; based on tests of last year's 4.0-liter models, expect about 6.5 sec 0-60. All XKs work well with the new 6-speed automatic to deliver a smooth rush of power from virtually any speed, though manual shifting requires negotiating Jaguar's unusual J-shaped shift gate.
FUEL ECONOMY
| XK8 cpe | XK8 conv | XKR cpe | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4 | 4.8 |
Test XKR averaged 15.8 mpg. Test XK8 coupe averaged 19.9 mpg in mostly highway driving. Both require premium fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| XK8 cpe | XK8 conv | XKR cpe | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 4.1 |
Calibrated for comfort. XKRs have tauter suspension settings, but all models are comfortable on most surfaces--at least with standard tires; larger, lower-profile optional tires increase thump and jiggle.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| XK8 cpe | XK8 conv | XKR cpe | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8 | 8.6 |
XKRs are more agile and controlled than XK8s, but all these 2-ton cats are luxury tourers, not feline sports cars. Newly standard antiskid system a praiseworthy plus in wet weather. Despite the heft, brakes make short, undramatic simulated panic stops.
QUIETNESS
| XK8 cpe | XK8 conv | XKR cpe | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 4 | 5 | 4 |
Nearly silent at idle. XKRs add slight supercharger whine to the muted full-throttle growl, but never annoy. Road noise unobtrusive with standard tires. Convertibles suffer top-up wind rush.
CONTROLS
| XK8 cpe | XK8 conv | XKR cpe | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 6 |
Generally hassle-free, reflecting the influence of Jaguar parent Ford Motor Co., though some control markings take learning, and shift knob obscures J-gate shift pattern in manual mode. Cabin ambience is "olde English" leather and wood, assembled with appropriate care. Convertibles' power tops are beautifully finished, operate precisely.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| XK8 cpe | XK8 conv | XKR cpe | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 5.4 |
Comfortable seats sit high enough to provide a good view of the road, but cockpit is cramped--especially knee room under steering column. Low build, wide door sills hamper entry/exit. Shallow side and rear glass impede driver visibility.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| XK8 cpe | XK8 conv | XKR cpe | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | 1 | .7 |
Seat shaped and sized for two tiny toddlers.
CARGO ROOM
| XK8 cpe | XK8 conv | XKR cpe | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2 | 2.2 |
Not much unless you use the back seat. Coupe trunks have 11.1 cu ft on paper but not in practice, convertible only 9.5.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| XK8 cpe | XK8 conv | XKR cpe | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2 | 4.6 |
Without a retractable hardtop, XK loses out to its newer Lexus SC 430 and Mercedes-Benz SL rivals. And interior room is tight and prices are steep. Still, XKs shine for silky performance in an elegant package with Jaguar's unique charm.
Total Score
| XK8 cpe | XK8 conv | XKR cpe | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 46 | 44 | 46 | 48.1 |
Total Score: 46
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
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