The car uses a transponder key system, allowing us to enter and start the car without taking out the key. A red starter button fires up a mellifluous eight-cylinder engine. The V8 displaces 4.2 liters, again a nod to its famous ancestor, the E-Type. This delivers 300 bhp and 400 Nm of torque. Because of the lighter body shell, the standard XK is only half a second slower to the quarter-mile than the previous supercharged XKR. A six-speed automatic with paddle shifters makes quick work of going through the gears.

The power output climbs to 420 bhp in the supercharged XKR; torque is a massive 560 Nm. 0-100 km/h time drops to 4.9 seconds, with an electronically-limited 248 km/h top speed.

New for this year is the special-edition Portfolio model. Revised styling cues include deep “Celestial Black” exterior paint, and 20-inch polished Cremona five-spoke alloy wheels. Interior trim features aluminum veneer, alloy gearshift selector, and doorsill trim. The audio system is by Bowers & Wilkins, complete with the trademark yellow speaker cones made from Kevlar. Performance enhancements include more powerful brakes,

The XK (and similarly-constructed XJ sedan) have a unique, lightweight feel. The chassis feels alive and responsive. The car changes direction quickly and willingly, in defiance of its large exterior dimensions. The exterior view is good all around, making maneuvering and driving easy on tight streets.

Another Jaguar hallmark is a pillow-soft ride. The suspension is tuned for long-distance driving comfort. Computer-controlled dampers vary the stiffness at each individual corner to provide a supple ride while reducing roll and pitch.

Jaguar’s focus now is on getting its limited lineup right, with cars that are reliable, well-engineered, and downright desirable. The all-new XK embodies all of those qualities, and is a major step in the right direction.

V8 engine upfront and a trunk big enough for golf bags at the back. The XK is a proper sports tourer.

Gauges are clear, concise and very sports car like indeed.