Jaguar XK8

Jaguar has announced a September 1 release date for its revamped – and now even faster – Jaguar XK8 coup and cabriolet.

New engines and cosmetic tweaks have been introduced to the range to boost performance against rivals including the Porsche 911.

A power hike – up 10bhp in the Jaguar XK8 and 30bhp in the XKR – cuts the 0-60mph times to 6.1 seconds and 5.2 seconds respectively.

Mid-range acceleration has also been improved, according to Jaguar, while top speed remains 155mph.

Jaguar say that 900 new parts have been used in the overhaul. Styling revisions include new detailing on the headlamps, different wheel designs and four new paint colours, plus new badging.
Prices for the Jaguar XK8 are pounds 48,700 for the coup and pounds 55,350 for the convertible. The XKR retails for pounds 56,700 or pounds 63,350.

The Jaguar XK8 was introduced in 1996, with the supercharged XKR arriving two years later. An all-new successor for the Jaguar XK8 is expected for 2005.