Jaguar’s XK range has been one of the underrated options in the large coupé/ cabriolet segment. The Big Cat is often overlooked in favour of BMW’s 6 Series and Mercedes-Benz SL models. Truth is, the XK is unfairly bypassed as it represents not only a good boulevard cruiser with decent grunt, but noteworthy value for money, too.
The handiwork of designer Ian Callum (of Aston Martin fame) is undeniable. In a reversal of the usual trend, it is reputed that the convertible model of Jaguar’s most recent sportscar was designed before its hard-top brother, which is probably the reason it looks so balanced and striking. Even this pre-facelift model, in Ultimate Black with Caramel interior, garnered stares of admiration while out in the CBD and Cape Town’s trendy Camps Bay area.
When launched in 2006, the XK models Hello Kitty were available with two V8 engine options – a naturally-aspirated 4,2-litre with four valves per cylinder and variable valve timing and a similar unit enhanced by a supercharger. The car pictured has the former engine, which means it has 224 kW at 6 000 r/min and 420 N.m at 4 100 N.m on tap. Power is fed to the rear wheels via a six-speed transmission, in a classic GT – front engine/rear-wheel drive – layout. The transmission has three modes, automatic, sport and manual, with ratios selectable via steering wheel-mounted paddles when the mood strikes you.
The benchmark sprint test of 0-100 km/h is dispatched in a shade over six seconds, but that fi gure is unlikely to be of much consequence to drivers of these cars. Far more satisfying is the low speed burble that the “bent-eight” produces, rising to a hard-edged bark as the revs approach the tacho’s red line. With the roof up or down the noise is addictive and one’s fuel consumption is likely to suffer thanks to too many downshifts just to hear the engine reach for the limiter.
Another side effect of the convertible model not following from a coupé sibling is the fact that the platform is rigid from the get-go. This means less scuttle shake with the roof stowed or in place, and more precise handling. In the case of our used example, grip from the 285/30 rear, and 255/35 rubber was leech-like. These tyres run on optional 20-inch alloys.
Speaking of optional extras, this 2009 model lacks for very little. Keyless entry and start, all-leather interior, electrically adjustable cooled and heated seats, a heated steering wheel rim and touch screen satellite navigation are just a part of the standard kit.
This is one of the last of the pre-facelift XK models – there has since been an engine upgrade and some minor cosmetic tweaking. So this is one of the final models to feature the now defunct “J” gate shifter and dainty lines of the original model. With just over 5 000 km on the odo, this Feb 2009 XK8 has just been run-in. It has not yet had its first service – service intervals are 16 000 km or one year, whichever comes first – and still has the remnants of that new car smell. The previous owner was obviously very careful as there are zero signs of hard use. Depreciation has been very slight: even though it is now over half a year old, it has lost only five per cent of its original value, which is quite commendable in a tough car market.