Jaguar XK Convertible: First Look

Motoring Channel Staff - 15/9/2005

Following the World Premiere of the XK Coupe - check out Feann's write-up here - Jaguar is proud to announce that it will be joined by the all-new XK convertible.

From the outset Jaguar knew it needed to create a convertible version of the XK and designed and developed it in parallel with the Coupe.

The XK Convertible uses the same advanced aluminium body structure technology to achieve excellent body rigidity and torsional stiffness while minimising weight: at just 1705kg (3759lbs) the new Convertible is one of the lightest cars in its competitive set.

With a 224kW (300hp), 4.2-litre V8 engine and Jaguar Sequential Shift steering-wheel-mounted gear change controls, the new drop top is ensured of rapid performance: 0-60mph takes just 6.0 seconds (0-100km/h in 6.3 seconds) and an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h (155mph).

The luxurious triple-lined, fabric roof - which can be powered up or down in less than 18 seconds – when retracted it stows fully out of sight beneath an aluminium tonneau cover. A roll-over protection system comprising two 'hidden' aluminium hoops that deploy in the event of an incident or roll over is standard on all XK Convertibles.

"The all-new XK was designed from the outset to be a beautiful convertible. It is a statement of confident Jaguar design, elegant as well as powerful and with the performance and driving dynamics to match its looks," commented Jaguar Design Director, Ian Callum.

The XK Convertible will be available from (Northern hemisphere) spring 2006. The XK Convertible is manufactured and assembled in a state-of-the-art production facility at Jaguar's Castle Bromwich plant in the West Midlands region of the United Kingdom.