Our recommendations
Which used Jaguar XK sports should I buy?
From launch, you could have a 300bhp 4.2-litre V8 or a 420bhp supercharged 4.2-litre R model. Both are fitted with a slick automatic gearbox that has a sports mode and F1-style steering wheel-mounted gearshift paddles.
The R is a much more aggressive-looking car, with a bodykit, larger wheels and sportier cabin trim. The standard car sounds great, but the R swaps the V8's growl for a roar under hard acceleration.
An active suspension system was available as an option on the 4.2 and standard on the R. This enhances the car's dynamics, giving a sportier and more stable feel - especially at speed.
The XK was overhauled in early 2009, with revised styling and new engines. The entry-level model has a 380bhp 5.0-litre V8, while the R gets a 503bhp supercharged version. Along with the new engines, Jaguar fitted the adaptive suspension as standard to all XKs.
