Jaguar Cars have established themselves as the inventors of classy, swift and attractive sports cars and sports saloons. The new Jaguar XK (project codename X150) is no exception. Unveiled in 2005, the Jaguar XK is a high perfomance grand tourer with the same stunning looks as the previous model. It features a similar 4.2-litre V8 engine.

 All models are fitted with a 6-speed automatic transmission which operates in two distinct modes - fully automatic and Jaguar Sequential Shift which allows manual control of the gear shifts using paddles mounted behind the steering wheel. Also featured is a unique innovation that replaces the J-gate, the JaguarDrive Selector - a precision-engineered chrome dial-type shifter mounted flush in the centre console which rises into the palm of your hand when you press the start button.

 The XK uses a new all-aluminium body structure which results in an overall weight reduction of up to 40% compared with steel. The use of aluminium brings many benefits in terms of improved fuel efficiency, lower emissions, shorter braking distances and better vehicle dynamics. The XK convertible has a kerb weight of 1,635 kg and the coupé comes in with a kerb weight of 1,595 kg.

 The X150 received a facelift in 2009 with the introduction of a new 5.0-litre V8 engine for both the naturally aspirated XK and the supercharged XKR. The year 2011 saw the launch of the new XKR-S featuring a 5.0-litre AJ-V8 Gen III R direct injection engine with a raised top speed of 300 km/h (186mph) and fitted with the Jaguar High Perfomance Braking System. Production of the XK is set to end in summer 2014.