2007 Jaguar XK Convertible

The arrival of the brand new Jaguar XK Convertible in Spring 2006 represents a new era in Jaguar design and engineering, as well as reinforcing Jaguar’s reputation for creating innovative models, which are both attractive and rewarding to drive.

The new XL Convertible is both sportier and more assertive than its predecessor, yet retains the traditional Jaguar elegance, maturity and modesty. With the hard top fitted, it has the classic, low stance of a Coupe, boasting a long hood, step windscreen, wheels that fill their enormous arches and minimal overhang. Inside, the XK Convertible combines modern luxury materials with traditional craftsmanship, contrasting finely stitched leather with high-tech, metallic finishes. The body-hugging seats and ergonomic layout reflect the driver-centricity of the XK Convertible, and give the interior a “cockpit”-like feel. The extended wheelbase and 2+2 layout of the new model mean that the front seat occupants have significantly more space that was the case in the old XK models.

The triple-layer roof is fully lined, and provides superb wind and road noise buffering capabilities. It is button-operated, and opens and closes in under 18 seconds. When down, the hood folds neatly under an aluminium tonneau cover, yet does not cause an undue reduction in the ample storage space that the XK Convertible provides. The soft-top design means that the exterior body could be designed with clearer, straighter lines, and the door waist line is carried from the front to the rear of the vehicle in one smooth sweep.

The XK Convertible employs the most recent version of Jaguar’s 6-speed epicyclic automatic transmission, seen by many as among the best automatic setups available in the luxury sports car market. It boasts Bosch Mechatronic shift – an electro-hydraulic setup that is capable of adapting to driving style and road conditions to ensure smooth shifts and maximum performance.

The Jaguar XK Convertible is powered by a four-cam, naturally aspirated AJ-V8 4.2-litre engine. This is a lightweight, compact powerplant and is based on the engine used in the latest XJ saloon model. There has been significant development in comparison with the old XK engine, and the new version now features brand new fuel-injection technology, as well as satisfying strict US ELEV II emissions requirements.

This impressive powerplant produces 300 bhp and peak torque of 303 lb/ft is reached at 4,100 rpm. An impressive 85% of the torque is available in the range between 2,000 and 6,000 rpm, adding to the sportiness and effortlessness of the XK Convertible. Despite these statistics, the car is still capable of delivering good fuel economy and emissions figures, including a lowering of CO2 emissions by five percent.






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© 2006 Martin Hemmings and Rod Brito for www.sport-cars.org