There's a 380bhp 5.0-litre V8 and a 503bhp supercharged version, both driving through a six-speed automatic gearbox. The standard engine delivers scorching performance but the supercharged version is simply staggering. Although mere figures can't begin to convey the intensity of the forces unleashed when you crush the accelerator to the floor, we can tell you that blasting from 0-60mph in the coupe takes just 4.6 seconds, and its 50-70mph time is only 1.9 seconds. Get the picture?

The latest convertible isn't as rigid as the coupe, so it doesn't ride quite as sure-footedly on bad roads. However, the standard active damping - which assesses road conditions and adjusts the electronically controlled suspension - means it's nearly as good to drive as the coupe. It delivers grand tourer comfort along with impressive grip, control and accurate feedback if you want to press on.

You'll love the V8 gurgle and growl, though it disappears when cruising. Less welcome is the tyre noise on coarse roads. The automatic gearchanges are smooth, though you notice them a bit more when braking hard with the gearbox in its sport setting.

This is a £60,000 car and it has running costs to match. So, whether bought privately or as a company car, it will cost you for the privilege of ownership – but then you wouldn't even be contemplating it if you couldn't afford it. Depreciation losses over three years could be as much as £30,000.

The XK is built from fine materials, with wood or aluminium dashboard trim options available. You might spot one or two inferior surfaces nearer your feet, though, and the switchgear doesn't feel as slick as it should in a car that costs this much.

The XK has a pyrotechnically triggered bonnet lid, which pops up to protect pedestrians in the event of a crash. It's the only way Jaguar could retain a sleek, low nose while providing decent protection to people on foot. The expected active and passive safety features are all present and correct, and Jaguar security is usually very good.

There's plenty of space around the driver, but the cabin retains a snug, intimate feel when the roof is up. There is plenty of electric seat adjustment to help you get comfortable. The modern, heavily stylised dashboard looks great and is easy to use. Visibility is pretty good, too.

Nominally, the XK is a two-plus-two, but it would be optimistic to try to accommodate anyone bigger than a small child in the rear. However, the XK still gives you a big boot in convertible format, so you won't need to commandeer rear-seat space on trips to the golf club.

Leather, satellite-navigation, an in-dash, six-CD changer, keyless starting, 10-way electrically adjustable heated seats, Bluetooth phone connectivity, dual-zone climate control, an active cruise control that helps prevent nose-to-tail shunts and stability control are standard, and the canvas hood folds electrically in just 18 seconds.