What does it cost?
Jaguar XK Convertible full 9 point review
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Performance
The standard XK has a 380bhp 5.0-litre V8, while the XKR and XKR-S use supercharged versions of this engine that produce 503bhp and 542bhp respectively. Even the XK delivers scorching performance, while the supercharged models are simply staggering. Although mere figures can’t begin to convey the intensity of the acceleration when you crush the accelerator to the floor, we can tell you that blasting from 0-60mph takes 5.3 seconds in the XK and just 4.4 in the XKR-S. Get the picture?
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Ride & Handling
The XK Convertible isn’t quite as stiff as the Coupe, you’ll feel some wobbles and thumps over patched-up urban roads. It gets better with speed, though, feeling firm, but nicely damped. The steering weights up nicely in bends, too, and the XK always feels like a smaller car than it is, changing direction quickly and precisely. The XKR has stiffer suspension, but its ride is still far from terrible. Only XKR-S is overly firm.
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Refinement
You'll love the V8 gurgle and growl, though it disappears when cruising. Less welcome is the tyre noise on coarse roads. The automatic gearchanges are smooth, though you notice them a bit more when braking hard with the gearbox in its sport setting. With the roof down, you’re reasonably well protected from wind buffeting.
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Buying & Owning
This is an expensive car and it has running costs to match. So, whether bought privately or as a company car, it will cost you for the privilege of ownership - but then you wouldn’t even be contemplating it if you couldn’t afford it. Depreciation losses over three years could be over £50,000 (for the XKR-S).
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Quality & Reliability
Jaguar’s reliability has been impressive in recent years, and the XK’s cabin feels solidly built. Unfortunately, many of the materials feel a little cheap given the XK’s hefty list price – the gearshift paddles, steering column and touch-screen surround are particularly disappointing.
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Safety & Security
The XK has a pyrotechnically triggered bonnet lid, which pops up to protect pedestrians in the event of a crash. It's the only way Jaguar could retain a sleek, low nose while providing decent protection to people on foot. The expected active and passive safety features are all present and correct, and Jaguar security is usually very good.
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Behind The Wheel
The XK's driving position is excellent and electric adjustment for the seat and steering wheel makes it easy to get comfy. It’s a shame, then, that the seats themselves are rather narrow. The touch-screen centre console minimises clutter, but it can be fiddly and hard to read in strong sunlight. A narrow rear window means that view behind is rather compromised, too.
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Space & Practicality
Nominally, the XK Convertible is a two-plus-two, but it would be optimistic to try to accommodate anyone bigger than a small child in the rear. However, the XK still gives you a big boot in convertible format, so you won't need to commandeer rear-seat space on trips to the golf club.
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Equipment
Leather upholstery, heated seats, satellite-navigation, keyless starting, Bluetooth and dual-zone climate control are all fitted as standard, but you may want to add active suspension if you opt for the standard XK (it’s standard on the XKR and XKR-S). Portfolio trim brings higher quality interior fittings.
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Our pick of the range
Jaguar XK Convertible 5.0 V8 2dr
The XKR may be more desirable, but we reckon this standard XK is more than enough car for anyone. And, given how much less it costs, we think it's better value.
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