2008 Jaguar XK-Series Review
The XK is a luxury sports coupe/convertible that replaced the XJS in 1997. A supercharged version, the XKR, debuted in 2000. The second and current generation dawned in 2007, with a stiffer body and more power. Top Gear named the XK the “GT of the Year” and “Car of the Year” in 2006.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Jaguar XK-Series is a new hope for this long-struggling company. Bold, muscular, the XK is everything a Jaguar should be. Quick on its feet, it can take the tightest of turns with ease. And it’s priced much lower than similar competitors. The XK will be the car to watch for years to come.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the XK only 2.5 stars for mechanical quality, but 5 stars for performance and design. Problems with the last generation included troublesome transmissions, wire chafing in the seats and damaged brake seals. It was recalled five times for issues including displaced suspension rings, displaced throttle brackets, cracked gear teeth, and incorrectly assembled pedal arms. Expect average to above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
Crash test scores are not available. Anti-lock brakes, front side airbags, active head restraints and stability and traction control come standard. The stability control system uses a two stage design, giving the driver more control.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Super stylish
+ Fantastic handling
+ Very reasonably priced
Cons
- Unknown crashworthiness
- Some awkward controls
- Cramped backseat
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Audi R8 includes standard AWD and over 100 more hp, but costs several thousand more, and lacks ABS, navigation, and a CD changer. The BMW M6 has a larger V10 engine with 200 more hp and a moonroof. However, it also costs much more. The Lexus SC 430 convertible is very similar, but costs several thousand less.
What Others Are Saying:
“If all future Jaguars turn out to be as good as the XK then after all these years Ford’s investment will ultimately pay dividends. They certainly deserve it as do the hard-working boys and girls back in the UK.” – The Auto Channel
“Stop holding your breath. The successor to Jaguar’s long-in-the-tooth XK8 and XKR is finally here and looks promising.” – Forbes
“The all-new 2007 Jaguar XK is an absolutely gorgeous sports car for today that will appeal broadly to successful men and women looking for the latest in sleek affordability. It has a couple of styling and design items we’d change instantly if we bought one, like the badges on the front fenders, but otherwise, we are simply smitten by this beautiful new Jag and the way it drives down the road, changing direction like the big cat it’s named for, but coddling the couple of adventurers inside like an English nanny.” – The New York Times
Read more about the 2008 Jaguar XK-Series at the Jaguar manufacturer web site.
