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A Jaguar Smorgasbord

Rita Cook Jul 9, 2008

Jaguar, the name roles off the tongue with the same kind of style that makes the Jaguar brand itself so enviable. When folks say Jaguar they stand a little taller, look a little prouder and, these days with the choices of Jaguar makes and models (and price ranges) there is certainly one of these old world, but at the same time ultra-hip cars for just about everyone (discerning taste not included).

Jaguar XK Convertible

Always convertible time, the Jaguar XK Convertible is especially hot because it has not only a refined interior matched with a style and grace, but great handling too. It is safe to say this particular Jaguar knows how to drive itself, and with the advanced technology it offers, this super-charged V-8 is a thing of beauty. For speed racers who like to feel the wind in their hair it’s a 0 – 60 ride in 6.4 seconds, not the fastest, but you could do worse and not look as good doing it.

What to Know: Starting with a 4.2-liter and V-8, of course, you also get 300 hp and 310 pound-feet of torque. The steering wheel mounted paddle shifter means ultimate control and, take note that the "J-gate" shifter has been replaced with a look too.

Miles Per Gallon: Gets 16 miles in the city and 25 miles per gallon on the highway.

Price Tag: $94,250 – indeed, a good deal for Jaguar enthusiasts.

Jaguar XKR Coupe

Possibly, the ONE, this Jaguar offers a lightweight aluminum structure for improved handling and you get one smooth ride even if it is a sport’s car. It just looks to good and with the strong acceleration complimenting the supercharged engine, you will look oh, so good too.

What to Know: Another V-8, the 4.2-liter is 420 hp and a six-speed automatic transmission with a high performance factor and all the goodies. Think 0 – 60 and you can get it in 4.7 seconds, but whose counting? Makes one wonder if that adaptive cruise control, a must option, can adapt to breakneck speeds while you’re driving it.

Miles Per Gallon: It’s a 15 mile per gallon ride in the city and 23 miles when on the open road.

Price Tag: Coming in around $98,000, a real classic style and, you can go lower if you must.

Jaguar XJR

Not sure which Jaguar to pick for your very own, this one is all style and grace. Classy with a capital "C" the XJR is at the top of the Jaguar sedan lineup. Go aggressive in this one, even the 20-inch tires have an attitude. It’s a ride that will heat you up and if the car doesn’t do it the seats (all of them) and the steering wheel will, these are heated as well.

What to Know: A sedan that means business you get 400 hp with a supercharged V-8 engine. Super V-8 trim is an added luxury plus the interior add on options – go for the long-wheelbase Vanden Plas version, yeah baby!

Miles Per Gallon: This one will get you 15 miles per gallon in the city and 22 miles per gallon on the highway.

Price Tag: A mere $85,000, but still hot, hot, hot!!!!

Jaguar XJ8L

Let’s go over the list; new grille, new bumper style with aero spoiler, revised tailpipe finishers, interior pluses as in new seats, more inside room and more cargo space. Opt for the XJ Vanden Plas and get lambswool rugs and Peruvian boxwood inlays too.

What to Know: At 4.2-liter and a V-8 engine the 300 hp six-speed, ZF automatic transmission on this one is good for the soul. Looking at revised exterior styling, 19-inch alloy wheels and a new seat design, it won’t be easy to get out of, but only cause you look so good inside.

Miles Per Gallon: It’s 17 miles per gallon street driving and 24 miles per gallon on the highway.

Price Tag: $93,000 and some change, kabling!

Jaguar XF

Want to play with the big boys, we got no problem with that. Even though this one is a little bit less expensive (not cheaper) than the other Jags you won’t get your feelings hurt driving it. It’s brand new for 2009 and the coupe-styling, four-door sedan look is a step above in all areas and, you don’t even have to worry about hitting pedestrians (you never know) it has a Pedestrian Contact Sensing System, in other words, it thinks for you.

What to Know: With a 300 hp to 420 hp range, a standard shift-by-wire six-speed automatic transmission and let’s see, what else, JaguarSense sensing controls too.

Miles Per Gallon: Okay, it’s 17 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon on highway, pretty normal for the Jaguar.

Price Tag: Up to $62,000, for a Jaguar, you say, that’s so reasonable!