After 10 long years of existence in the automotive world, Jaguar has finally decided to end the life of the Jaguar XK8, but not without a replacement. As the XK8 leaves the automotive market scene, Jaguar introduces yet another new vehicle in the Jaguar XK. Just like its predecessor, the Jaguar XK would be available in coupe and convertible body styles. But aside from the body styles, the new vehicle seems to have nothing more to share with its predecessor.
Just as everybody could have guessed, the new Jaguar XK is a very luxurious vehicle (for what else can a Jaguar be?). But the company also knows how to pull-off some surprises, and for the Jaguar XK, that surprise came from the vehicle’s construction. Taking the cue from the XJ sedan’s dramatic improvement in performance, Jaguar also used aluminum extensively for the construction of the new XK. With such construction, one can expect that the new Jaguar XK would be quicker, roomier, and lighter than its predecessor.
The 2007 Jaguar XK would come standard with a 4.2-liter V8 engine that produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It is coupled with a new 6-speed sequential gearbox that has three basic modes of operation: (1) manual mode for optimum engine power usage, (2) automatic mode for smooth cruising, and (3) Sport mode for improved braking and downshifting. With these components, the Jaguar XK can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than six seconds (exactly six seconds for the convertible).
Inside, the XK is a typical Jaguar; that is, a typical luxury vehicle. Just like other luxury vehicles, it is also equipped with a generous amount of comfort and convenience features and electronic components. Despite this, the dashboard does not appear as messy as the dashboards of other luxury vehicles. The Jaguar XK’s interior is also roomier compared to that of the Jaguar XK8.
As to the exterior, the XK sports an entirely new design which may be used on future Jaguars as well. Critics claim that the vehicle’s style resembles that of the Aston Martin. The explanation: it was designed by Ian Callum, who, incidentally, also designed some Aston Martin cars. However, Callum implied that the design of new XK is definitely better than his Astons.
Jaguar is all ready to launch the new Jaguar XK coupe and convertible in Jaguar showrooms. Jaguar lovers, however, would have to wait until mid-April for the vehicle to go on sale.