2006 Jaguar XK Series: Road Test
2006 Jaguar XK Series ▼
- MSRP: $69,830 - $87,330
- Invoice: $63,546 - $79,471
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Our road test for the 2006 Jaguar XK Series includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Jaguar XK Series from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Jaguar XK Series, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Jaguar XK Series help you decide if a 2006 Jaguar XK Series is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| XK8 cpe | XK8 conv | XKR cpe | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8 | 8.2 |
Both V8s work well with the 6-speed automatic to deliver a smooth rush of power from any speed, though manual shifting requires negotiating Jaguar's unusual J-shaped shift gate. Test XKR coupe did 5.5 sec 0-60 mph. No opportunity to time XK8, but expect about 6.5 sec 0-60.
FUEL ECONOMY
| XK8 cpe | XK8 conv | XKR cpe | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4 | 4.2 |
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 | 6 | 4.3 |
Calibrated for comfort. XKRs have firmer suspension settings, but all models are comfortable on most surfaces with 18-inch tires; larger, lower-profile optional tires increase thump and jiggle.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| XK8 cpe | XK8 conv | XKR cpe | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8 | 8.5 |
XKRs are more agile and controlled than XK8s, but all these 2-ton cats are luxury tourers, not feline sports cars. Standard antiskid system a praiseworthy plus in wet weather. Despite the heft, simulated panic stops are short, undramatic.
QUIETNESS
| XK8 cpe | XK8 conv | XKR cpe | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 4 | 5 | 4.1 |
Nearly silent at idle. XKRs add slight supercharger whine to V8's 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 | 6.3 |
Mostly user-friendly, reflecting influence of Jaguar-parent Ford Motor Co., but some control labels take learning, and shift knob obscures J-gate shift markings in manual mode. Cabins sumptuously trimmed, 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 | 5.7 |
Cockpit cramped, especially for knee room under steering column. Seats comfortable, sit high enough for clear view ahead; otherwise, shallow side and rear glass impedes driver vision. Low build, wide doorsills hamper entry/exit.
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 |
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 | 4.5 |
Interior room is tight and prices are steep. And without a retractable hardtop, XK convertibles lose out to the Lexus SC 430, Mercedes-Benz SL, and Cadillac XLR for solid-roof security. Still, these Jaguars shine for silky performance in an elegant package, but note that redesigned versions are due in spring 2006 as '07 models.
Total Score
| XK8 cpe | XK8 conv | XKR cpe | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 46 | 44 | 45 | 48.5 |
Total Score: 46
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
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