Jaguar XK8 Convertible (96-05) - Review

Review by Parkers on
The convertible version of the XK8 is a beautiful machine with the electrically-powered hood either up or down. It's been about since 1996, but like all good Jags is timelessly elegant. It's been refreshed over the years to keep it on course dynamically and if you need to be in Saint Tropez in time for cocktails then it's a fine way to get there. With the roof down you can better hear the V8 doing its thing. An all-new car was launched in 2006.
4 out of 5

Other Jaguar reviews

3.5 out of 5

Safety

There’s no shortage of safety equipment, with an abundance of airbags, a traction control system and cruise control that reacts to vehicles in front of you. An alarm and immobiliser are standard.

NCAP Test

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3.5 out of 5

Reliability

It's been around for a while now, so it's all well proven. Conventional wisdom says you might be better served by a German marque but reliability surveys don't support this. Enjoy buying British.

Car check problem points

Body

Must be absolutely pristine.

Engine/Gearbox

Generally tough but needs full service history.

Other

Has been recalled for possible disengagement of diff output shaft, possibility of restricted throttle opening, gearbox lock-ups and for an auto box that mistakenly engages reverse while in a forward gear.