JAGUARXKR Convertible 2009 - 2014

　　Jaguar introduced the facelifted version of the XK lineup in 2009, and besides aesthetic and interior upgrades, it also improved the engine lineup, including the highest-powered version, the XKR.

　　The British automaker was under Ford’s umbrella in 2005 when it introduced the second generation of the XK range. Then, in late 2007, the American automaker sold the brand to Tata Motors, which secured the funding for the further development of the brand and its products. Furthermore, Europe was ready to switch to the Euro 5 emission standards that required automakers to receive type approval by September 2009. As a result, Jaguar complied and launched the facelifted version of its grand tourer, offered as a coupe or a convertible.

　　Ian Callum designed the XK, and it was difficult to improve an already beautiful and appreciated vehicle without spoiling its clean lines. Still, there were several areas where the automaker could add some modifications and get better results. At the front, the car featured a new bumper that sported vertical side scoops that created an air curtain around the front wheels, improving aerodynamics. In addition, the automaker added a Speed Pack as an option that introduced a lower front splitter that enhanced the car’s stability at high speeds.

　　From its profile, there were no significant changes for the great-looking convertible. Still, a keen eye for detail could notice the new door mirrors that featured slim horizontal turn signals. The body-colored vertical vents mounted on the front doors extracted the air trapped inside the wheel wells. Jaguar made the XKR Convertible with thicker A-pillars that also doubled as roll-over safety systems, and there were no other arches to interrupt the sideline of the vehicle. Jaguar made the canvas roof with three layers of Thinsulate material, creating better weather and sound protection. The power-operated rag-top could open or close the canopy in 18 seconds at the touch of a button.

　　Inside, the automaker created a whole new leather-wrapped cabin centered around the driver. At the front, it installed a pair of high-bolstered seats separated by a narrow center console that housed the gear selector, a couple of cup holders, and a cubby storage under the center armrest. Up on the center stack, Jaguar placed a standard touch-screen display for the infotainment system. Depending on the market, it offered the XKR Convertible with either a satellite radio or a DAB Radio. Inside the instrument cluster, the automaker placed large dials for the speedometer and tachometer that flanked an LCD that showed data from the car’s onboard computer. In the back, the automaker added a bench seat profiled for two, but with such a minimal room that a person could hardly fit there.

　　The most significant upgrade for the 2009 XKR Convertible was found under its aluminum skin. Thanks to the adaptive suspension, the car could provide higher cornering speeds and a more comfortable ride. While that was available for the entire range, the engine was unique. It was a completely new five-liter V8, helped by a supercharger fit inside the engine’s V. As a result, it provided quicker acceleration response. The new powerplant delivered almost 25% more power than the non-facelifted XKR, paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox.

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