Test Drive: 2014 Jaguar XKR-S

Available from 2,500 to 5,500 rpm, the torque is enough to slam you back into the seat. With a top speed of 300 km/h and 0–100 time of 4.4 seconds, it’s laughably easy to find yourself in big-ticket territory when pulling out to pass. Disrespecting this car is not a wise idea, as it’s not as forgiving as either the R8 Spyder or 911 Turbo S Cabrio. A foolhardy tromping of the pedal could reward you with a rear end slide when the electronic differential delivers all of the torque to the rear wheels during hard acceleration. It’s particularly squirmy on wet pavement. Choosing Sport mode not only quickens up throttle and transmission response, it triggers the adaptive suspension to lower the car by 10 mm.

Jaguar’s done a fine job of alleviating any of the typical flex inherent in most convertibles – the car feels as stiff as any of the XK coupes I’ve previously driven. Revised springs are some 28 percent stiffer than the regular XK’s, but the adaptive suspension keeps the ride supple and compliant.

While the steering isn’t as reassuringly solid as the Porsche’s, it’s sharp, accurate and the suede-wrapped wheel feels great in the hands.

2014 Jaguar XKR-S, wheel detail, paddle shifter. Click image to enlarge

Official fuel consumption numbers are 14.2 L/100 km city/9.2 – exactly the same as the regular XK. Over a week of admittedly “spirited” driving, I averaged 13.6 L/100 km.

The Jaguar XKR-S is certainly not my first choice for a track car – it’s a bloody handful when pushed to the limit. But as an outrageously gorgeous grand tourer, it has few equals.

There are a few rare cars that, through a mysterious sort of alchemy, become more than the sum of their parts – transcending their constructions of metal, rubber and glass, almost seeming alive. There are a few in its segment that offer just as much luxury and equal or greater power. But few deliver that sense of occasion that is the essence of Jaguar. A drive made even more special in knowing it’s probably the last – the XK is expected to be discontinued after 2015.

Pity.

Pricing: 2014 Jaguar XKR-S Convertible
Base price: $146,000
Options: Carbon Fibre Exterior Pack ($1600), Heated front windshield ($425), Carbon Fibre engine cover ($2300)
Destination: $1350
Price as tested: $149,900

Competitors:
Audi R8 Spyder
Mercedes Benz SLS AMG Convertible
Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet