By 
ENGINES – Unsurprisingly it’s petrol power all the way with the XK, with a beefy V8 motor Jaguar’s unit of choice. Initially available with 4.2-litres and, after a revision programme, 5.0-litres, the creamy smooth V8 motor delivers refinement and accelerative punch in equal measure. And it sounds good, too.
EXTERIOR – As a logical evolution of the old XK8, this XK is just as distinctive thanks to its long, low profile and its nose is the right side of aggressive-looking. The car’s long bonnet does take some getting used to when behind the wheel, though.
INTERIOR – It might be big on the outside but the XK’s cabin is a modest size. The car’s rear seats are really just for looking at, while headroom is also modest – a consideration if you’re above average height. Overall quality is top notch though, and does much to reinforce the car’s luxury GT market position.
DRIVING – The XK’s front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout is a classic one, and with close to 400 horsepower on tap the XK can get a bit lively if you don’t know what you’re doing. Behind its sophisticated exterior the car can be a hooligan in the right hands – and a lot of fun. It’s also good at playing the refined cruiser, and can make light work of long motorway journeys.
OWNERSHIP – Bargain or not at the point of sale, the real costs start to hit home once you’re living with an XK. It’s a powerful car with a thirsty engine so be prepared to dig deep to fund your habit. That said, these are straightforward cars and servicing should be no more than routine. Its proportions do require some acclimatisation though, especially the low driving position matched to the long bonnet.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR – Used and abused examples do exist – usually because the owner can’t afford to run it properly – so look out for a patchy service history and electrical glitches and parking damage that hasn’t been rectified. In general everything must work flawlessly, and a test drive is a must for peace of mind.
MODEL HISTORY
2006: Jaguar launches a new version of its popular luxury coupe, the XK. Power comes from a petrol V8 engine, initially 4.2-litres then revised upwards to 5.0-litre. Standard and ‘R’ high performance models offered, along with a good level of standard equipment. Auto gearbox is standard fit across the range.
REASONS TO BUY – looks, image, brand values, straight-line performance, refinement
REASONS TO BEWARE – running costs, proportions can make parking tricky, cabin space
PICK OF THE RANGE – XK 4.2 V8 auto
WHAT TO PAY
2006 06 19,730
2006 56 20,515
2007 07 22,695
2007 57 23,580
2008 08 26,305
2008 58 27,070
2009 09 29,965
Figures relate to showroom prices for cars in A1 condition.
