I have not seen the XKR in person but from the description, there is not that much different than some trim, engine and tuning adjustments. I did read a review of the XKR and the writer was upset with the plastic grille, the faulted trunk lining and some of the dash detail (common to the XK also.) But he praised the car. If I got interested it would probably be the XK...I would like the slightly softer ride and really don't need the extra power. It would be a waste of about $8K I think for me.