Overview & Reviews

Jaguar coupes and convertibles have a long history, starting with the iconic E-Type or XKE. It has been lusted after since its introduction in 1961, appearing on teenage boys' bedroom walls, grown men's garages and in movies like the Austin Powers series, where it served as the international man of mystery's Shaguar.

After 22 years of the unloved XJS coupe, Jaguar revived the XK name and spirit in the late 1990s with the stunning XK8 coupe and convertible. Powered by an all-new 290-horsepower V8, it was quick and capable of keeping up with the best of the sub-$100,000 luxury coupe rivals of the time.

Note that this review only covers the period of time (1997-2006) when Jaguar officially referred to its first-generation XK as the "XK-Series." For full coverage of its successor, please see our Jaguar XK review..

Used Jaguar XK-Series Models
They say cats have nine lives and quite appropriately, it takes a long time for Jaguar coupes and convertibles to die. The XKE survived from 1961-'74 before being replaced by the very different XJS, which languished in mediocrity for 22 years before being mercifully put out of its misery.

The Jaguar XK-Series didn't live quite as long, but 10 years is still a long time for an automobile. The 1997 Jaguar XK8 debuted in coupe and convertible body styles, with the XKR arriving in 2000. The standard 290-hp 4.0-liter engine was Jaguar's first-ever V8 and only the fourth all-new engine in its history. We were impressed with its low-end torque and found that it accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds. We also thought it was "a hoot to drive" with effortless acceleration, precise steering and a supple suspension.

Inside, the XK8 featured a classic Jaguar look with lots of Connolly leather and walnut trim. Although it began to look antiquated later in life with unintuitive controls and subpar materials, in the retro-crazed late '90s, it was certifiably chic. The car's cramped interior dimensions and small trunk were never in style, however.

In 2003, the Jaguar XK-Series engine was upgraded to 294 hp and 303 pound-feet of torque (from 284 lb-ft), sending the coupe from zero to 60 in 6.1 seconds. That year also saw a new six-speed automatic and more than 900 other mostly minor changes, none of which touched the still-attractive sheet metal. After that, the XK8 prowled about through 2006 without any significant updates.

The high-performance XKR featured a supercharged version of the 4.0-liter V8, making 370 hp and 387 lb-ft of torque. Zero to 60 mph in the coupe was accomplished in 5.1 seconds. The 2003 revisions also applied to the XKR, including a power boost to 390 hp and 399 lb-ft of torque.

Prior to the XK8, Jaguar offered the XJS coupe and convertible. The latter appeared in 1989, replacing the odd "Cabriolet" model, which featured a Jeep Wrangler-esque retractable roof that maintained the window frames. By 1990, a 262-hp 5.3-liter V12 was the standard engine. It was briefly replaced in 1993 by a 4.0-liter inline-6 making only 219 hp, but a new 278-hp 6.0-liter V12 emerged in 1994 to complement the standard six-cylinder. A four-speed automatic replaced the ancient GM TH400 three-speed auto in 1993. In 1992, a new head- and taillight design debuted.

User Reviews:

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  Great used car value - 2004 Jaguar XK-Series
  By Wifescar - March 1 - 6:53 am

  At 1/3 the new car cost that is like new,30K miles, documentation, extended 6 yr warranty, just had to get it for my wife. Been great, no problems and she looks great in it!! Brembo brake rotors are very expensive so look at them 1st. Car reminds me of the XKE I had 30 years ago. Great used car value!!

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  Exceeded My Expectations - 2008 Jaguar XK-Series
  By Mark - February 2 - 10:00 am

  Bought a certified used XKR convertible with 9220 miles, 6/100k warranty, and the Jag special financing. Ive owned Mercedes SL, Boxster, Audi, and other luxury automobiles. This vehicle is the perfect blend of all of them. Great ride, neat exhaust notes, unbelievable sound system, and OMG - the power. Does not handle like the mid-engine Boxster, but a small inconvenience. Did I really get nearly 27 MPG on the interstate?! One thing is for sure, the Mini Cooper drivers wont be waving at me!

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  ? - 2004 Jaguar XK-Series
  By BrianLee - January 22 - 2:00 am

  I love this car. All the things one hears about Jaguars arent true. Ive never had a problem with it.

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  Great Auto - 2002 Jaguar XK-Series
  By Garry Hardt - January 21 - 10:00 am

  Best Auto in the World

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  Superb Car - 2006 Jaguar XK-Series
  By Fred - January 13 - 12:40 pm

  Recently traded my XJR for an XKR. This car is so much superior and draws far more attention. The styling is timeless and the performance excellent for a touring car of this type. Not as much raw fun as my old TVR but still the best car Ive ever owned.

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  Malooly review - 2006 Jaguar XK-Series
  By Ray Malooly - January 11 - 12:26 pm

  The only complaint is the front bumper is too low to the ground, you have to be careful not to hit parking guards. Lots of fun to drive. Sure attracts attention from everyone. Lots of power, and looks.

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  A dream car - 2006 Jaguar XK-Series
  By inheritablessing - December 13 - 3:13 am

  Love everything about it!!! There is nothing like the vintage looks of Jaguar. Its smooth as butter. Havent yet been called to have serviced. Absolutely a dream car.

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  THE Car to Buy - 2006 Jaguar XK-Series
  By Bob K - December 9 - 3:56 am

  2 months into this 06 XKR. Love the car. 3rd XK in 5 yrs. XKR is far superior to XK8. For Style and Performance, it is without peer. I park next to an SL600 every day and people stare at the XKR.

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  Best Jaguar - 2007 Jaguar XK-Series
  By Achberger - November 18 - 7:20 am

  The Jaguar I purchased has these additional options: luxury package, premium audio package and 20" wheels. I also had the vehicle coated so that waxing never has to be performed. The car performs very well @ 300 hp but I like the gas mileage it can achieve. I have recorded 31 mpg. With fuel costs rising and the desire to own a fantastic looking performance vehicle, is there any other way to go?

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  Great Cat - 2007 Jaguar XK-Series
  By Goins - October 23 - 3:46 am

  This is my third XK and by far the best. It is a class act and nothing on the road distracts you from the looks.