Top Cat

Model: Jaguar XK8 Convertible, £64,955. XK8 from £58,995.

Engine: 4.2-litre V8 petrol unit developing 300bhp.

Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission, driving rear wheels.

Performance: Maximum speed 155mph, 0-60mph 6.0 seconds.

CO2 emissions: 269g/km.

Economy: 25.0mpg combined.

Warranty: Three years/60,000 miles

WITH only three models in its range, the launch of an all-new Jaguar is inevitably preceded by an avalanche of hype and general rubbing together of hands enough to leave some wondering if any car could possibly match up to the slavering expectation of those waiting.

Well, the truth is that the XK, whether fixed roof or cabrio, is a fabulous piece of kit.

The key is the aluminium construction, first used on the big XJ saloon, making it significantly lighter and stronger than the old version, 50% stiffer than the old convertible. With the convertible version planned from the start, it also made it much easier to incorporate the folding mechanism without intruding on boot space or spoiling the lines.

What lines they are too: muscular like the best Jaguars are, but with grace. It should age very well indeed, which says a lot about the design team moving away from overtly retro designs.

Once you've managed to tear yourself away from the outside, you can slot into the cosy cabin that sticks to the traditional 2+2 layout, though Jaguar maintains that buyers want the rear seats, even though they are better suited to carry non-human items. The seats are comfortable and supportive, while the layout of the cabin is simple and attractive. A touch screen takes care of most of the functions, while the steering wheel and gear lever are leather covered.

Under the bonnet is the 4.2-litre V8 that appears in other Jaguars and also powered the old XK but, with less weight to pull and a revised transmission, it is even more engaging. Pull away in auto mode and it is effortless. The gearbox slurs the changes well, but won't leave you floundering in too high a gear. Switch to sport and the revs will soar under a heavy right foot, blasting forward with real urgency and an engaging exhaust note. Better still is manual. A pair of paddles behind the steering wheel allow full control and the shifts are carried out with no perceptible delay. The quibbles are minor. Those rear seats are understandably small, though the boot is quite shallow which is more of an issue. There are one or two bits of plastic in the cabin which feel a little out of place in a car of this class and expense, but that is it.

It is arguably the best luxury convertible car in the market, and even more satisfying is the fact that it wears a Jaguar badge.

Ten second tests . . . ten second tests . . . Ten second tests . .

WHAT IS IT?

Volvo's all-conquering family SUV with a brawny V8 petrol engine ushers in a mid-life facelift.

WHY SHOULD I BUY ONE?

Because other XC90s aren't showy enough for you.

WHAT ARE THE ALTERNATIVES?

The Range Rover Sport, BMW X5 and Mercedes M-Class can all be had with V8s as well and all cost more.

RANDOM FACT

The V8 has been on sale in other markets for some time, and it was customer demand that persuaded Volvo to bring it to the UK.

WHAT IS IT?

It's not just a Boxster with a roof. Porsche's Cayman S is a more driver focused tool - even more than the stalwart 911.

WHY SHOULD I BUY ONE?

If you don't yet feel old enough for a 911 and don't fancy a soft top Porsche, this is the one. A little less forgiving than either, but huge fun when you're in the mood.

WHAT ARE THE ALTERNATIVES?

You're not short of choice in this sector, but prices vary wildly. The trick is to forget the asking prices and buy what you're heart wants. Take your pick from the likes of the Nissan 350Z, BMW Z4 Coupe, Mercedes SLK and Audi TT.

WHAT IS IT?

A big saloon to rival BMW's 7 Series and the Mercedes S-Class, Audi's A8 leans more to pleasing enthusiastic drivers.

WHY SHOULD I BUY ONE?

Fed up with wallowy luxo-barges? Then you need an A8. The big aluminium Audi is more driver focused than most, and can be hustled at great speed but with minimal drama.

WHAT ARE THE ALTERNATIVES?

Mercedes, Jaguar and BMW are the usual suspects and all provide similar levels of quality and refinement. Lexus offers a bit more of everything for less cash. However, some buyers still judge a car by its the badge.