2007 Jaguar XK First Drive

From its powertrain to its chassis, suspension and even exhaust note, the 2007 Jaguar XK is a technological feast. Especially the sound: the XK’s Semi-Active Exhaust system creates an intoxicating burble at idle, a mature growl on acceleration, courtesy of a silencer box, acoustically-controlled tailpipes and an underfloor resonator. The result is a sound that driving enthusiasts will quickly fall in love with, especially while driving the convertible model. Even those who are unfamiliar with the joy of a nicely noted engine will perk up their ears when they step on the XK’s accelerator.

Stepping on that accelerator, meanwhile, results in much fun, thanks to several significant advancements in power and performance. Driving the XK’s 4.2-liter V8 engine – one modified with variable valve timing and a better fuel injection technology – is Jaguar’s six-speed transmission, reworked to offer drivers quicker shifts, adaptive gear changes and more control of torque transfer while driving aggressively. For the first time in a Jaguar, the transmission comes with paddle shifters, upping the fun quotient even more.

Balancing the ride is a revised version of Jaguar’s CATS suspension, notable in that it now controls body roll as well as pitch, providing more accurate feedback and amplifying the driving experience. Combine that with the XK’s lighter and stiffer all-aluminum chassis, and you get a true sporting experience behind the wheel, especially if you deselect the XK’s traction control, called TRAC DSC. It’s a driver-selected stage of the standard stability control system that increases the amount of allowable sideways slip for an increased performance envelope. Consider it like driving the XK without an electronic nanny. Choose TRAC DSC by pushing and holding the traction control button for approximately three seconds.