Introduction:

A 10-year duration might be a good thing for the effects of a redwood deck-sealing product, but it's a rather distressingly long time for a car to be in production awaiting a full redesign. And indeed, the Jaguar XK8, sold from 1997 to 2006, was increasingly outclassed in its later years. Change is afoot for the 2007 model year, though, with the introduction of the new, second-generation XK. The Jaguar XK (the "8" has been dropped from its name) is still a two-door luxury car sold as either a coupe or a convertible. It's also still V8-powered, rear-drive and priced well under the $100,000 barrier. The important changes relate to its new aluminum body structure, larger interior and more luxurious features.

Like the XJ sedan, the Jaguar XK features all-aluminum construction for its body structure and body panels. In the XK's case, the main advantages to aluminum construction are weight reduction and body stiffness. The new XK is a bit lighter than the previous-generation XK8 and noticeably lighter than its main competitors. Jaguar also claims that the extra body stiffness has improved handling, ride quality and crashworthiness. Bigger brakes and a more sophisticated Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS) are also part of the upgrade, and a lengthened wheelbase has freed up considerably more room for front occupants.

These changes, along with a more comprehensive features list, have dramatically changed the fortunes of Jaguar's coupe. Previously, the XK8 had its eye-catching styling and not much else to recommend it. Now, the XK is more luxurious and entertaining to drive. (In an odd twist, though, Jaguar's attempt to make the new XK more aggressive-looking has made it less attractive to some eyes.) Certainly, there's a wide range of coupes and convertibles available for those buyers with about $90,000 to spend. For the power hungry, the Jag's carryover 300-hp V8 and lack of a manual transmission will probably be off-putting. And those wanting the latest in techno-gadgets will find that this new Jag comes up a bit short. But for most people, the XK should strike a nice balance between performance and luxury. It's a little early for us to predict a winner among cars like the BMW 6 Series, Lexus SC 430, Maserati Coupe and Spyder and Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class, but there's no doubt that the Jaguar XK is one you'll want to consider.

Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:

The Jaguar XK is available as a two-door coupe or a two-door convertible. Highlights of the car's standard equipment include 18-inch wheels, an adaptive suspension system, bi-HID headlights, parking sensors, keyless start, leather upholstery, power-adjustable and heated front seats with memory settings for the driver, Bluetooth connectivity, a DVD navigation system, and an in-dash, six-CD changer with MP3 compatibility. Major options include 19-inch wheels with run-flat tires, an adaptive front-lighting system, adaptive cruise control, upgraded front seats with higher-quality leather and a premium surround-sound system. Buyers are also able to choose between burl walnut and poplar wood trim.

Powertrains and Performance:

The rear-drive Jaguar XK is powered by a 4.2-liter V8. It develops 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard, and steering-wheel-mounted paddles allow drivers to shift manually should they desire. According to Jaguar, the XK coupe can accelerate to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds.

Safety:

The Jaguar XK comes with front-seat-mounted side airbags, whiplash-reducing front seats, a tire-pressure-monitoring system, traction control, antilock brakes and stability control. The stability control system has two stages, one of which gives the driver more responsibility for the car's handling before the system activates. The XK convertible has two aluminum hoops that auto-deploy in the case of a rollover accident to better protect occupants.

Interior Design and Special Features:

Inside the new XK, traditional craftsmanship and contemporary luxury materials contrast with a choice of high-tech trim surfaces. The layout is driver-focused and sporty, and the control-organizing Driver Interface Center system is relatively easy to use. (Clearly, though, Jaguar never bothered to predict what this system's acronym would sound like before naming it.) Consumers used to the XK8's cramped quarters will be pleased to find that the XK is much more accommodating, though the two-position rear seat is still suitable only for children or emergency use. The XK's trunk can hold about 11 cubic feet of cargo. With its top down (a process that takes less than 18 seconds), the XK convertible can still hold 8 cubic feet.

Driving Impressions:

Accelerating hard through the gears, the Jaguar XK's V8 makes up for its relatively modest punch with an enjoyable intake and exhaust soundtrack. Shifts from the six-speed transmission are quick. Sent through corners, the XK displays the advantages of its aluminum construction, as both versions of the car feel nimble and precise.