Jaguar New XK 2005-2014: The Essential Buyer’s Guide

1 Is it the right vehicle for you?

– marriage guidance

Tall & short drivers

The X-150 was built with similar internal dimensions to previous X-100 (XK8) models – not renowned for their spaciousness. However, due to better space/fittings planning, these later cars are marginally better. Front seat movement is somewhat limited, so very tall drivers may still experience some issues. As the cars are quite low set, entry and exit is also not as easy as with a saloon.

Leg and headroom will be adequate for most drivers; certainly better than some sports cars.

Weight of controls

The car is light and easy to handle, all models having power assisted steering and brakes. The handbrake is electronic, operated by a chromed lever on the centre console. Pedals are light to the touch yet positive, and with the paddle gear change facility on the steering wheel, all is light to the touch and easy to hand.

Will it fit in the garage?

Length: 189in / 4800mm

Width: 80in / 2030mm

Height: 53in / 1325mm

Interior space:

Although identified as a 2+2, the rear seat is a mere token and only really suitable for young children – primarily due to lack of legroom. Headroom at the front is okay but there is plenty of elbow room, and most front seat occupants find these cars very comfortable.

Rear seating isn’t very practical!

Luggage capacity

The X-150 Coupé was designed to take one of the largest Samsonite suitcases, and its hatchback style, with a wide opening one piece door, means good use can be made of the space available. However, the Convertible has a conventional boot with limited space: it has good width, reasonable depth, (but!) height is restricted – especially at the back of the boot, because of the space reserved for the hood. This is secured by a shelf which can be retracted or even removed to allow more luggage accommodation, but at the cost of not being able to retract the hood.

Boot space shouldn’t be a priority if you want a Convertible.

Running costs

The V8 engines are quite economical and 26mpg should easily be achievable, slightly more with the earlier 4.2-litre models. Normal servicing costs are not high with 10,000 or 15,000 mile intervals, but extra maintenance on items like gearbox oil/filter changes, can rake the bills up considerably. Diagnosing problems can be an issue for the DIY mechanic without specialist equipment.

Usability

A practical car in all conditions.

Parts availability

Nearly everything is still available or accessible through the many specialists around. Good, tested used parts can also be acquired.

Parts cost

Still a modern car, many items, only available directly from Jaguar are not cheap. There is always the tendency for some garages to replace, rather than attempt to repair items, which can prove more costly.

Overall Jaguar XK parts prices are cheaper than many other contemporary prestige models.

Insurance

Insurance costs can be cheaper than you would think. Being a member of a Jaguar club can provide access to specialist schemes with discounts for limited use, multiple vehicle ownership, etc.

Investment potential

Not yet, but it will come, particularly for special editions and extremely low mileage examples. The X-150 will probably follow the route of all previous Jaguar sports cars.

Alternatives

Rivals have traditionally tended to be the Mercedes SL, BMW 6 Series and Lexus Coupé. These days a Porsche 911, Maserati Grand Tourismo are strong contenders too, as is the Aston Martin DB7, but the X-150 wins out on cost and refinement.

2 Cost considerations

– affordable, or a money pit?

Purchase price

Buying the best car you can afford is advice that holds for the X-150, as it does for any complex, high-performance prestige car. The buyer must consider the amount of work that may be necessary to put a cheap car in to good order.

A service history is vital, although these days not necessarily one stamped by a franchised dealership. A fully stamped-up service book is a good sign, but look for proof of the work actually being done. Never take an XK on face value, as there are hidden issues that could cost a lot of money to rectify.

Servicing

Typical intervals are:

Regular service 10,000 miles early cars; 15,000 miles later cars

Renew spark plugs 100,000 miles 4.2-litre engines; 105,000 miles 5.0-litre engines

Renew air filter 40,000 miles 4.2-litre engines; 45,000 miles 5.0-litre engines

Major service 60,000/100,000 miles

Parts price (approximate 4.2/5.0)

A good choice of models to suit most requirements for a sporting car.

Spares availability is excellent for these models.

Mechanical

Brake pads (front) lx100

Brake pads (front high-performance) lx150

Brake discs (front) lx160

Brake discs (front high-performance) lx250

Brake pads (rear) lx65

Brake pads (rear high-performance) lx285

Brake discs (rear) lx160

Brake discs (rear high-performance) lx175

Water pump lx125/lx325

Thermostat lx30

Front spring unit lx40/lx65

Rear spring units lx40/lx70

Wheel bearings lx55/lx270

Front wishbone bushes lx20

Top wishbone bushes lx25

Headlamp unit lx1000

Used parts

Presently, the supply of used parts is down to the few vehicles scrapped due to accident damage. Certain specialist dismantlers can help. The majority of parts are unique to the X-150, so interchanging parts with models like the X-350 saloon is not practical. This also applies to electrical modules.

The main issue is to ensure non-OE or used parts are thoroughly tested before purchase.

3 Living with a New XK

– will you get along together?

Good points

Great looks

Refinement

Ride and handling

Smooth V8 engine

Performance and relative economy

Luxurious interior

Prestige

Good support back up

Reliability

Bad points

Aluminium body can be costly to repair

Minor degradation of aluminium on earlier cars

Rear seat accommodation

Boot