Model tested: Jaguar XKR Convertible
Price: £76,097
Date tested: June 2008
Road tester: Stuart Milne

Overall rating: 87%
Few cars are more beautiful than the XK, and with the convertible's roof down it looks even better. Unlike many rivals, the XK convertible has a traditional canvas roof – but that doesn't mean the big cat is dated.

1. Looks
The XK's looks are as sensational as anything from Italy. Thanks to the canvas roof there's no need for a hunched back, which is is reminiscent of the iconic E-Type, with circular elements in the lights and a high-mounted numberplate.
10/10

2. Looks inside
The cabin is also sensational, with the ability to make the driver feel special. The dash is simple, there's a pleasantly chunky steering wheel, and the seats are supportive but wonderfully comfortable.
10/10

3. Practicality
The rear seats are unusable for adults, with no legroom if a six footer is up front. But it has a surprisingly large 283-litre boot, which is radically reduced when the roof is folded.
6/10

4. Ride and Handling
The XK convertible is wonderfully controlled at all speeds, with a taut chassis. The extensive use of aluminium means weight is reduced, while it's a textbook high-speed cruiser.
9/10

5. Performance
The XKR has a supercharged 4.2-litre V8 that delivers 420bhp to dispatch the 0-62mph sprint in five seconds; top speed is limited to 155mph. The six-speed automatic gearbox has steering wheel-mounted paddles for lightning-quick gearshifts.
10/10

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6. Running Costs
The XKR should retain around 55% of its value after three years/36,000 miles, but running costs will be high. Tax band G costs £400 a year thanks to CO2 emissions of 294g/km; insurance is group 20. The lightweight construction helps fuel economy; expect 25mpg or so.
6/10

7. Reliability
Jaguar scores well in ownership surveys these days, and the XK Convertible appears to be built impeccably, using high quality materials.
8/10

8. Safety
The XK hasn't been EuroNCAP tested, but should perform well. There are pop-up roll bars and front, and side head and thorax airbags plus whiplash-reducing headrests. Traction control and ESP plus electronic brake force distribution are all standard.
9/10

9. Equipment
The XK convertible has leather trim, cruise control, keyless start, plus front and rear parking sensors. There's also sat-nav, Bluetooth communication, six-CD autochanger and a 525-watt sound system.
9/10

10. X-Factor
The XK Convertible is excellent in almost every respect, but the standout feature is its looks. It still looks fresh and turns heads like few others, and unlike some luxury sportscars, the XK gets nothing but smiles and compliments.
10/10