2007 Jaguar XK8

For 2007, the XK is all-new, with all-aluminum monocoque construction, new styling, and more horsepower and torque, but with better fuel economy and fewer emissions. It’s also lighter and stiffer than the model it replaces; the company says it is the most technologically-advanced Jaguar ever, and is the first of a new generation of performance models.

The XK is available in coupe or convertible form, as the XK with 4.2-litre V8, and as the XKR, with supercharged 4.2-litre V8. All use a six-speed automatic transmission with sequential manual mode.

Features on the XK include 18-inch alloy wheels, enhanced Computer Active Technology System (eCATS) adaptive damping, four-channel ABS with emergency brake assist, driver-selectable second-stage stability control, front-seat head and thorax side airbags, Smart Key keyless entry and start system, six-CD stereo, electronic parking brake, Poplar or Burl Walnut interior trim, driver information centre with seven-inch centre console touchscreen, DVD-based satellite navigation system, dual-zone automatic climate control, ten-way power driver and passenger seats with memory, reverse park control, self-levelling bi-Xenon headlamps with washers, and Bluetooth hands-free telephone interface. Convertible models feature a three-layer power top and rollover protection device.

The XKR adds 19-inch alloy wheels, four-channel ABS with electronic brake force distribution and hydraulic brake assist, performance brakes with R-logo black calipers, fully active exhaust, adaptive front lighting, R-style sports seats, aluminum interior trim, and R-specific front bumper, mesh grille, power side vents and colour-keyed hood louvres.

Available options on the XK include a Luxury Package of 19-inch wheels, soft-grain leather, leather-trimmed instrument and door panels, 16-way power seats and heated wheel, Aluminum Luxury Package with 20-inch wheels, dimpled aluminum trim, soft-grain leather and 16-way power seats, or Advanced Technology Package, with adaptive cruise control and adaptive front lighting. The XKR can be optioned with a Luxury Package of soft-grained leather, leather-trimmed instrument panel and 16-way power seats. Other stand-alone options include a premium sound package, adaptive cruise control (on XK), and wheel or special paint packages.

The XK’s makeover is very well done: the new model is stiffer and more fun to drive, especially with the XKR’s supercharged engine. The convertible is engineered as a drop-top, not as a lopped-off coupe: it’s as solid as the full-roof model, with a top that goes down and self-stows in 18 seconds to let the sun shine in.