Not-so-special 'k'

Auto Express was first behind the wheel of the facelifted machine, which now offers 400bhp, courtesy of the 4.2-litre V8 that launched the S-Type R. The XKR also sports a six-speed gearbox and revised suspension. Physical changes have been kept to a minimum, and you'll have to be an XK expert to spot the alterations to the front lights, wheels and badging.

The modifications are clearer inside, where new seats and a revised console dominate. Fire the engine and it's clear work has been done to improve the XK's refinement, too. The V8 is smooth and quiet and, although you can hear the supercharger whine under heavy acceleration, the exhaust remains muted.

It's here that the challenge begins to falter. While the Jag wears its R badges with pride, it's more cruiser than focused sports car. The steering, which has always felt light, seems to offer less bite than before. With the traction control turned off, it's easy to spin power away through the inside rear wheel. If you do force the car to oversteer, the limited slip differential howls loudly. The brakes are powerful, but lack feel and make the XK squirm on the road. In Jaguar's defence, the ΂£4,250 handling pack, not fitted to our car, may improve the dynamics.

For high-mileage drivers, it's worth noting that the XKR rides incredibly well. Cruising at 60mph, the cabin is silent. The suspension glides over uneven roads, and the gears shift seamlessly between ratios. Clearly, the Big Cat still has class, even if it's lost some of its reflexes. But if it really wants to run with the class-leading Porsche and Maserati, it may need more than comfort alone.