2013 Jaguar XK-Series Review
The magnificent 2013 Jaguar XK is offered as a coup and convertible in three models representing increasing levels of performance: XK, XKR and XKR-S. Power ranges from a 5.0 liter V8 producing 385hp/380lb-ft of torque up to a mind-blowing supercharged 5.0 liter that cranks out 550hp/502lb-ft of torque. Even the base XK is loaded with luxury and performance features, such as; an adjustable suspension, heated/ventilated, heated/power adjustable tilt-telescoping steering wheel, auto dimming/power folding mirrors and a rearview camera to name a few of the standard features.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The 2013 Jaguar XK offers incomparable luxury and performance, at a surprisingly good value compared to others in its class that require expensive add-on features to match the XK’s impressive list of standard amenities.
What’s New For 2013:
The 2013 Jaguar XK received 20” wheels standard, along with a new Portfolio Pack that upgrades interior materials and offers unique interior color combinations and paint selections.
What is the Predicted Reliability:
In a previous initial quality study conducted by J.D. Power and Associates, the overall quality rating was a 3 out of a possible 5; with overall design quality earning a 4 and overall mechanical quality picking up a 3. Receiving a top score of 5 was the body and interior design quality, with powertrain mechanical and design quality earning a 4.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The 2013 Jaguar XK is equipped with safety equipment and systems, including; emergency brake assist, anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brake-force distribution,traction control, dynamic stability control, Adaptive Restraint Technology System, Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS) as well as tire pressure monitors. The convertible model adds pop-up rollover bars.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Powerful V8 engines
+ Luxurious, well-crafted interior
+ Loaded with standard features; less expensive than many competitors
Cons
– Backseat is small
– Touchscreen can wash out by sun’s glare
Head-To-Head Competition:
While the Jaguar XK has a higher base starting price than the Porsche 911 Carrera and BMW 6 Series 640i, it offers several standard features that would be an upgrade/higher trim in the others; including a more powerful 385hp V8, compared to the Porsche 911’s 345hp Flat 6 and the BMW 6 Series with a Inline 6 rated at 315hp. The XK also offers a basic warranty of 5years/50,000miles with both the 911 and 6 Series with 4years/50,000miles.
What Others Are Saying:
"With all its special features and badges, the XKR-S convertible will surely catch the eye of the neighbors who thought their XK or even their XKR convertible was special. When they go for a ride, they’ll also note that the R-S is the fastest and most powerful Jaguar convertible ever." –Automobile Magazine
"Atop these Southern California mountain crests, the long Jag doesn’t disappoint and dances as if it were 1500 pounds lighter and 2 feet shorter; it jinks left and right on tight passes with surprising agility, flatness, and surefootedness." –MotorTrend
"The XKR-S manages to balance Jaguar’s historic mantle of grace with pace, a surprisingly cohesive package that can be driven every day and savaged on weekends." –AutoBlog
Read more about the magnificent 2013 Jaguar XK, at the Jaguar manufacturer site.