Jaguar

There's no mistaking the 2011 XK as anything other than a Jaguar. With its new more "performance oriented" nose, revamped sleek rear quarters and rear end, the XK is a beautiful machine that, especially with the top down, drew many approving glances. While the Jaguar XK's predecessors are sometimes accused of looking like an out-of-date sports car for the older set, the 2011 model has struck back with a dramatic new look. Jaguar changed the front, added chrome grilles inside the bumpers and – a neat detail – placed a serious set of louvers on the hood. The new side profile looks as good as the artfully executed rear end and it all comes together to give the XK a sleek, powerful look.

My metallic blue XK had a light beige interior that was quintessential Jaguar: An abundance of fine leather and beautiful wood trim. It's not only beautiful to look at, but that quality British leather smells…well, it just smells great.

The XK convertible has a standard 5.0-liter V8 engine that delivers 385 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. This engine is smooth, fast and superb in every way – including its sound. While you can always hear the XK's powerful voice rumbling out of those big rear tailpipes, Jaguar has done a fine job of noise control; the cabin's quiet with the top up and there's little wind buffeting with the top down.Read more

January 12, 2009 /PRNewswire/ -- Jaguar has revealed the new XKR and XFR at the 2009 North American International Auto Show -- two cars that are true to the heritage of Jaguar's legendary performance, delivering a superb balance of high performance, dynamic ability and refinement.

Mike O'Driscoll, Managing Director of Jaguar Cars said: "We've started 2009 with the introduction of an advanced new generation engine that set new benchmarks in terms of performance, economy and efficiency. Our cars meet the challenges of the modern world and the needs of today's consumers -- and they're also true to the Jaguar philosophy of creating beautiful fast cars." Read more