REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

Bears its claws…

True, the XK8 is a successful combination of tradition and romanticism typical of the Jaguar models of the past, all in a resolutely modern and reliable packaging. But is the sportiest of the Jaguars? The XK8 can take on two passengers in front and two in the rear, although its configuration leaves very little legroom for bench seat occupants. Its narrow, high-backed bucket seats, elegantly upholstered in Connoly leather, are molded to provide good support but the position is relatively high, which means that shoulders are high above the seat belt line; lateral support could use a bit of improvement. The streamlined console that separates the front seats features a number of controls of similar size and they can be hard to tell apart. In other words, be careful not to deactivate the traction control system when you’re trying to turn off the seat heater! The instrument panel, with rich walnut inlays, houses a number of classic instruments - white on a black background - that stretches all the way to the front-seat passenger’s line of sight. Instead of disappearing completely, the convertible’s electric roof stores discreetly, quickly and elegantly over the trunk area. As for the trunk itself, it’s roomy enough for two golf bags.Jaguar engineers had no qualms about breaking with tradition as they equipped their protйgй with a state-of-the-art V8. In its entire history, the company has only introduced three other engines boasting an entirely new design. Unfortunately, Jaguar gives automobile lovers very little chance to admire the fine materials used to build the V8 as they’re hidden away under an amalgamation of molded plastic, apparently more appealing to someone on the design team. Your right foot will take very little time to realize that the V8 gives up its 290 horses smoothly and willingly. The XK8 provides strong acceleration and it won’t shove you back into your seat. In any case, the five-speed automatic transmission (a manual version is available if you prefer) is smooth and keeps power well under control. Comfortable, graceful and regal, the XK8 doesn’t like rough handling. Of course, its tires (Pirelli P- Zeros) let this model get away with pretending its a sports car, but such behavior doesn’t really come naturally. Lastly, the convertible’s chassis isn’t as sturdy as it could be and the rearview mirror giggles as soon as you hit poor roads.

PROS
Significantly improved reliability
Attractive styling
Undeniable charm

CONS
Cramped interior
Lack of rigidity (convertible)
More well-behaved than truly sporty (except the XKR)