Skip advert
Advertisement

Jaguar XK 2006 review

We've already been impressed by the XK, so could the Jaguar XK Coupe be the most exciting new car of the year?

Overall Auto Express rating

4.0

How we review cars
Find your Jaguar XK
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

The XK marks a real return to form for Jaguar. Handsome lines, fantastic performance and superb refinement make it a serious, if costly, contender in the coupé stakes. It doesn't offer the driving thrills of a Porsche 911, but it's a great improvement over the old car.

In Convertible form the Jaguar XK beat the BMW 6-Series on its first UK test, but how does the long-awaited Coupe measure up?

Advertisement - Article continues below

The handsome machine looks better in the metal than in photographs, and is best viewed from the rear, where powerful haunches give it a purposeful stance. The aluminium bodywork clearly pays homage to the classic E-Type, especially at the front, but details such as the fussy light clusters and old-fashioned retractable aerial are a disappointment.

With a proper hatch at the back, there's a fine amount of luggage space. And although the token rear seats are fixed - the Coupe is billed as a 2+2 - the contents of the 330-litre boot are hidden from prying eyes. Up front, the cabin is well equipped and, thanks to multi-adjustable electric chairs, getting comfortable behind the wheel is simple. A red starter button fires up the normally aspirated 300bhp V8, which sounds as purposeful under acceleration as it is muted when cruising. Worked hard, the Jag has a serious turn of pace.

There's also a slick six-speed auto' box that boasts a pair of steering wheel-mounted paddles for sequential manual shifts. In addition, our test car had optional CATS suspension, which adapts the damper settings to individual driving style and speed. Even with the bigger 20-inch alloys fitted, it offers impressive ride comfort yet retains a fine handling balance, so the model is still fun to drive.

While not a truly focused sports car, the XK trades on Jaguar's traditional strengths of refinement and comfort. For fans of the brand, the wait is well and truly over.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £26,995Avg. savings £7,541 off RRP*Used from £12,599
Omoda 5

Omoda 5

RRP £23,990Avg. savings £2,192 off RRP*
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £4,935 off RRP*Used from £13,090
Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £38,140Avg. savings £3,019 off RRP*Used from £11,995
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Xiaomi YU7 2025 review: a world-beating new EV to worry the establishment
Xiaomi YU7 - front cornering

New Xiaomi YU7 2025 review: a world-beating new EV to worry the establishment

BMW or Mercedes would do anything to keep the new Xiaomi YU7 from sale in the UK and Europe, and this is why
Road tests
14 Jul 2025
Electric Car Grant in detail: Which cars will get the UK EV discount?
Auto Express creative director Darren Wilson charging the Lexus RZ

Electric Car Grant in detail: Which cars will get the UK EV discount?

The government has set out its plan to help reduce the cost of affordable EVs by introducing a new £3,750 Electric Car Grant for new EVs sold under £3…
News
18 Jul 2025
Electric Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake will keep going long after rivals need to stop
Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake - front action

Electric Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake will keep going long after rivals need to stop

The second of Merc’s new-era EVs is here in the form of an attractive estate with a huge range
News
14 Jul 2025