2012 Jaguar XK: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2012 Jaguar XK is a mid-cycle refresh, with redesigned front and rear styling, slimmer headlights, and updated cabin trim. This is also the first U.S. model year for the 550-hp XKR-S flagship.
About the 2012 Jaguar XK
2nd-generation XK (X150, 2007-2014); 2012 is the mid-cycle refresh year and the first year for the XKR-S in the U.S. lineup.
Jaguar positions the XK as a grand-touring sports car that blends speed, style, and long-distance comfort. The brand leans on its aluminum structure, V8 power, 2+2 cabin, and richly trimmed interior to present it as a car that feels special on a weekend drive but is still relaxed enough for cross-country travel. Its core appeal is classic Jaguar design with a warmer, more handcrafted feel than many German rivals.
The 2012 XK range spans three distinct personalities: the comfortable 385-hp XK grand tourer, the quicker 510-hp XKR, and the new 550-hp XKR-S. All are richly equipped, while the XKR-S stands apart with sharper suspension tuning, carbon-fiber aerodynamic pieces, and a performance exhaust.
What changed, by category
2012 Jaguar XK specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 5.0 Liter | V8, Supercharged, 5.0 Liter | V8, Supercharged, 5.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Manual Mode | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Manual Mode | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Manual Mode |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 15 mpg | 15 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 22–24 mpg | 22 mpg | 22 mpg |
| Horsepower | 385 hp | 510 hp | 550 hp |
| Torque | 380 lb-ft | 461 lb-ft | 502 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 7.1–11.7 cu-ft | 7.1–11.7 cu-ft | 11.7 cu-ft |
| Seats | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |||
| Adaptive Headlights | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | |||
| Cooled Seats | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
| Wood Interior Trim | |||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2012 Jaguar XK compared with the 2011 model?
The 2012 Jaguar XK received a mid-cycle update with redesigned front and rear styling, slimmer headlights with LED running lights, refreshed cabin materials, and a standard backup camera. The 550-hp XKR-S also joined the U.S. range, while the XKR175 75th Anniversary trim departed.
Was 2012 the first year for the Jaguar XKR-S in the United States?
Yes. The 2012 model year marked the XKR-S debut in the U.S. XK lineup. It used a 550-hp supercharged 5.0-liter V8 and added dedicated suspension tuning, more serious aerodynamic bodywork, and a performance exhaust.
Did every 2012 Jaguar XK come with a backup camera?
Yes. A backup camera became standard across the 2012 XK lineup, along with front and rear parking sensors on the base XK.
How do the 2012 XK, XKR, and XKR-S differ?
The 2012 XK is the comfort-focused 385-hp grand tourer, while the XKR adds a 510-hp supercharged V8, stronger brakes, and sportier trim. The 550-hp XKR-S is the sharpest version, with stiffer and lower suspension, carbon-fiber aerodynamic parts, and a performance exhaust.
Was there a 2012 Jaguar XKR-S Convertible?
Yes. The 2012 U.S. lineup included a very limited run of the XKR-S Convertible, pairing the open-top body with the 550-hp supercharged V8 and XKR-S performance upgrades.