2007-2015 Jaguar XK and XKR buying guide highlights:

• A pre-facelift X150 Jaguar XK or XKR costs less than a brand-new 2022 Ford Mustang EcoBoost, while post-facelift examples cost less than a new Mustang GT
• While its pace roughly matches the modern Mustangs, the XK and XKR are noticeably more comfortable and luxurious and handle better
• Although lack of maintenance and old batteries can cause lingering issues, a well-maintained X150 XK and XKR should be a reliable luxury sports car

Depreciation is the great democratizer, bringing luxury cars and high-end sports cars within reach of the common enthusiast’s wallet. And for some, it’s a tantalizing deal that’s too good to resist. Like, why buy a new Subaru BRZ when you can get a used Porsche Boxster for the same price? Or, for the same price as a new Ford Mustang, you can slide into a used Jaguar XK or XKR.  

Naturally-aspirated or supercharged, a used X150 Jaguar XK costs less than a Ford Mustang, EcoBoost included

Although some V8 models lost a bit of power, the 2022 Ford Mustang still offers a lot of performance for the money. While the range-topping Shelby GT500 can cross the $100,000 threshold with enough options, the EcoBoost model starts at $27,205. And the V8-powered GT is just $10,070 more.

Or, you can take that money and buy a used X150 Jaguar XK. The predecessor to today’s F-Type, the XK was a radical departure from its predecessor, the XK8. But, just like the XK8, Jaguar offered a speedier version, the XKR. And you can get either a pre-facelift (2007-2009) XK or XKR for less than the MSRP of a 2022 Mustang EcoBoost. Stretch the budget to Mustang GT level, and you can get a 2010-2015 example.

One downside of the Jaguar XK/XKR is the lack of a manual. But given that it’s technically a grand-touring (GT) car, that’s not really a drawback. And the British sports car’s other attributes more than make up for it.

It’s sharper than a Ford Mustang and more luxurious

Like its contemporary rival, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage, the Jaguar XK and XKR lean more to the GT side of the sports car world. So, neither is quite as sharp nor as focused as the Porsche 911. But compared to the Ford Mustang, the XK is one slinky sports car. And while the XKR matches the Mustang GT in straight-line speed, in the corners, the Brit pulls ahead.

Even in track-focused Mach 1 guise, the Mustang feels a bit heavy, if stable and accurate. The Jaguar XK, though, feels “balanced and planted,” with steering that combines great feedback without excessive weight, Car and Driver says. And whether you’re driving the XK or XKR, it remains lively, light, and nimble when the road starts curving. Plus, the taunt but compliant ride is even comfier than what the contemporary 911 manages, Car and Driver reports.

Part of the reason why the X150 Jaguar XK feels sporty yet comfy is what makes it so different than the XK8. This is one of the first modern Jaguars with an aluminum chassis and aluminum body panels. Hence why the 2007 XK is roughly 200 pounds lighter than the 2006 XK8, not to mention significantly stiffer. Also, later versions come standard with electronically-adjustable adaptive shocks, PistonHeads notes.

Speaking of fancy shocks, some 2022 Ford Mustang trims and packages offer magnetorheological dampers, no ‘Stang is as luxurious as the XK. True, you can get GPS navigation in a Mustang, but what about two-tone leather and wood/aluminum trim? Also, in 2007, the XKR offered a center touchscreen as well as optional adaptive cruise control. And even a base post-facelift Jaguar XK comes standard with a heated leather steering wheel, heated and ventilated seats, and a Bowers & Wilkins audio system with a six-disc CD changer.

Plus, while the 2022 Ford Mustang isn’t a bad-looking car by any means, it wasn’t penned by Ian Callum.

Is a used 2007-2015 Jaguar XK reliable?

Now, Jaguar’s vehicles don’t have the best reputation for reliability. Furthermore, Car and Driver reported some scattered electronic glitches in its various XKs and XKRs. And like its predecessor, this cheap sports car can develop expensive issues, particularly if a previous owner didn’t take care of it. Plus, while they’re light, the XK’s various aluminum parts aren’t cheap to repair.

However, if maintained properly, the X150 Jaguar XK and XKR are surprisingly “tough…old bruisers,” PH reports. Firstly, the X150-gen V8s have redesigned water pumps and timing-chain tensioners that don’t fail like the XK8’s versions do. In addition, if owners regularly change the oil and follow the 10,000-mile engine service intervals, these V8s “should be trouble-free,” PH claims. And while early XKR electronic differentials had some faults, Jaguar reportedly replaced them under warranty.

Admittedly, the XK/XKR can overheat if the thermostat fails or the radiator gets clogged with leaves, but the former issue isn’t Jaguar-specific. Also, PH says the XKR can start rattling if its variable valve timing’s hydraulic components fail. But again, Jaguars aren’t the only luxury cars with such age-related problems. Speaking of, the XK/XKR six-speed automatic is a common ZF unit, so massive issues are rare. However, despite initial claims that it was maintenance-free, experts recommend changing the fluid every 60,000 miles as well as the filter.

As far as electronics go, the electronically-controlled dampers often wear out after 60,000 miles and need to be replaced. Though to be fair, shocks are a replacement item on every car—the Jag just has ‘fancy’ ones. Same thing with the battery: PH recommends changing it every four years. Otherwise, low voltage can cause electronic issues and weird warning lights. And if you don’t drive your Jaguar XK/XKR often, put it on a trickle charger.

Furthermore, XK and XKR electronic handbrakes can fail as these sports cars age. For safety reasons, this isn’t a DIY repair, PH says, and it requires a special diagnostic tool. Ditto repairing a clogged A/C drain tube—an independent shop can lower the transmission and trim the tube.

Should you buy a used Jaguar XK or XKR?

Because a used 2007-2015 Jaguar XK or XKR is still a used luxury car, it won’t be as cheap to own as a new Ford Mustang. Not only will it lack a warranty, but some parts will undoubtedly cost more. Still, if you want a luxury GT that can devour miles or claw through backcountry corners, it’s a great value. Just get a pre-purchase inspection first.

If you’re on the fence about which to buy, know that the XKR doesn’t just have more power. It also has larger front brakes and more standard features, including the previously mentioned electronic differential. However, be mindful of that supercharger, as it can fail over time. More maintenance is the price of more performance, after all.

Ultimately, as with any used car, buying a secondhand XK comes with pros, cons, and some risks. But it does mean that, instead of a pony, you can get one cool cat.

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