Jaguar XK8 XKR New Book XK EVO Engine Service Buy Fix

The XK Coupe and Convertible line-up has been an illuminating exercise for Jaguar Cars Ltd. After the turbulent early-i 9905, when the company was haunted by the spectre of dire financial troubles, the XK was launched at the Geneva Motor Show in i996. It was the product that the company needed to demonstrate to the world that it was a survivor — the rumours of its demise were sorely exaggerated.

Its curvaceous, expansive and unashamedly retrospective lines have won international acclaim. In fact, it has been variously described as “the world’s most beautiful car” by style and engineering aficionados — the people ‘in the know’. Its gorgeous, E-type inspired style has served the marque well, as both the Coupe and the Convertible models still manage to turn heads to this day, even though they have been on sale for several years. The magical combination of exhilarating performance (especially in the supercharged ‘R’ versions), consummate style and unmistakable luxury has made it an unbeatable package.

Driving an XK8 convertible on a scenic trip to the South of France revealed that, if you thought an XK could cause a stir in ‘Blighty’, you ought to take it across the Channel! As a Jaguar remains a fairly rare sight on French roads, passers-by are mesmerised by the XK’s flowing lines and huge alloy wheels. Yet, it is not just on the Continent that it wins fans; around the world, the XK has been responsible for attracting new customers to the Browns Lane marque.

Through a series of subtle product enhancements, the XK range remains as competitive today as it was immediately after its launch and that aspect is a credit to the dedicated Jaguar people in Coventry, who played a hand in its creation.

The appeal of the XK8 and XKR is undiminished and the increasing number of marque-loyal enthusiasts, who own them, and the specialists that offer a broad choice of modifications for the models are solid proof (if any were needed) of their continued popularity. Such undying adulation will ensure that the XK lives on, way beyond the time of its intended replacement. It is not without its faults, but it is a stunning, modern day classic that has been highly beneficial to the rest of the brand.

• XK8 18 Months On!
• 3000 Miles in an XK8 in Ten Days
• XK8 - Buying Pre-owned
• XK8 - Dipping into the Goody Bag
• Blue is the Colour
• Super Supercharged Sports
• The XKR in the Making
• Buying and Living with a Jaguar XKR
• XKR Silverstone - a Limited Edition
• Hedonist Haven
• Back to Back XK8 vs XJS
• Back to Back XK8 vs E-Type
• Back to Back XK Takes on SL
• This Sporting Life - XKR vs 911
• Barking Cat
• EVO Kick
• The Edge
• First Class Jag
• XK Superstar