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The
first new Jaguar sports car in 21 years is
a visual masterpiece. The XK8's long,
lovely snout, reminiscent of the E-type
sports cars from the 1960s, charms you
immediately. While its curvaceous,
graceful flanks also mimic Jags of the
past, the overall look is distinctly
modern.
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Both coupe and
convertible versions are offered, although the
convertible is the best looking. Prices start at
$64,900 for the coupe and $69,900 for the
convertible, about $7,000 more than the XJS. Not
cheap, but less than competitors from Mercedes-Benz
and BMW.
Under the hood,
an all-new aluminum, 4.0-liter, twin-cam V8 with
290 horsepower waits to do your bidding. While a V8
is not the usual fare for Jaguar, known in the past
for its silken V12s and twin-cam six-cylinders,
this powerplant is as sweet as English jam. Toe the
throttle and the engine responds with a creamy
smooth power delivery. Punch it and you're rewarded
with acceleration that is satisfying but not as
brutal, say, as the new Corvette.
 Getting
in and out requires ducking to miss the low top.
Some folks complained about bumping their heads.
According to Jaguar, about 7000 XK8's will be
available for sale this year. Considering its sharp
looks and powerful V8, I expect them to be sold
quickly as buyers rejoice at again having a new
English sports car.
It's great to
have a new Jag sports car. The XK8 is thoroughly
modern with its aluminum V8, traction control,
anti-lock brakes and 5-speed automatic
transmission. Traditional wood and leather dominate
the interior, and the top is absolutely
effortless.
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Vehicle
Type:
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front-engine,
rear-drive 2+2 sport
coupe/convertible
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Base
Price:
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coupe,
$64,900; convertible, $69,900
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Engine
Type:
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4.0-liter,
aluminium, V8
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Power
(SAE net):
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290
bhp
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Transmission:
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automatic
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Wheelbase:
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101.9
in
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Length:
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187.4
in
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Curb
Weight:
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3867
lb
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EPA
fuel economy, city driving:
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17-24
mpg
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