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Now in its third your of production, the latest Jaguar XK is a thoroughly modern car that competes well with the latest versions of the Mercedes-Benz SL, BMW 6-Series, and Cadillac XLR.

Benefiting from the lightweight aluminum chassis, the 4.2-liter V8 propels the XK from 0 to 60 mph in less than six seconds, says Jaguar. Its rigid chassis and the latest CATS adaptive suspension provides a smooth ride and demonic cornering, coupled with accurate steering and powerful brakes. The XKR adds even more power courtesy of a supercharger.

For 2009, the Jaguar XK8 upgrades to 19-inch alloy wheels shod with P245/40 ZR19 tires in front and P275/35 ZR19 in the rear. The previously optional 525-watt Alpine surround sound system now replaces the former 160-watt system on all models. This new audio system includes 8 speakers and SIRIUS Satellite radio. In addition, parking sensors in front join the ones in the rear that were standard last year already.

The XK heritage dates back to the fast and sensual XK-120 of 1949. This latest design of the XK is beautiful and evocative of the breakthrough XK-E of the early 1960s, with some Aston Martin and Ford styling cues thrown in. (Jaguar's Scottish chief designer, Ian Callum, designed the Aston Martin DB7 and DB9.)

Like its luscious ancestors, this latest XK is a tasty combination of Jaguar style and traditional British luxury-car wood, leather, and quietness.

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The 2008 Jaguar XK coupe ($77,200) and convertible ($83,200) come with a 4.2-liter, 300-horsepower V8 engine and six-speed automatic transmission. For 2009, 19-inch alloy wheels are standard.

The Jaguar XKR coupe ($87,700) and convertible ($93,700) add a supercharger to the same engine for 420 horsepower. XKRs come with high-performance brakes and active front lighting. Inside are sport seats with added lateral support, polished stainless pedals, a suede-like Alston headliner and aluminum trim. Outside, the XKR is distinguished by a deeper front valance, mesh grille inserts, and body-color hood louvers.

Standard equipment for all XK models includes all the power accessories and other amenities you'd expect at this level, plus 10-way power seats with memory and lumbar support, DVD navigation, keyless entry and keyless start, a seven-inch video display, Bluetooth capability, cruise control, 525-watt Alpine stereo with 6-disc changer and SIRIUS Satellite radio, park assist, and an electronic parking brake.

The Luxury Package for the XK ($2,300) adds 16-way power seats with adjustable bolsters, soft-grain leather interior, heated leather steering-wheel, leather gearshift knob. A similar package is also available for the XKR ($2,300). The Aluminum Luxury Package for the XK ($8,125) combines the soft leather 16-way seats with aluminum interior trim and 20-inch alloy wheels. The Advanced Technology Package for the XK ($2,500) adds adaptive cruise control and active front lighting.

Several wheel options are available as stand-alones, including 19-inch chromed alloys ($1,400), 19-inch chromed alloys with run-flat tires ($1,700), and 20-inch alloys ($5,000).

The Portfolio limited edition ($7,500) for the XKR adds Alcon brakes with six-piston calipers in front and four-piston calipers in the rear, 20-inch polished alloy wheels, polished aluminum power side vents, and leather-edged floor mats.

Safety features for all XKs include front and side airbags, ABS with EBD, traction control, dynamic stability control, and tire-pressure monitor. Also included on convertible models is electronic roll-over protection: If the convertible should roll over, two rollover bars come blasting up through the rear glass to stabilize the rear of the compartment.