The XK8 (also known as the X100 model after its product code) was produced from 1996 to 2005, and was then replaced by the new X150 model, launched to the public at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2005. The new sports car was simply called the XK, followed by the engine size. This car is the first official production model, which was completed on 20 December 2005, in Jaguar’s Castle Bromwich factory, and immediately handed over to the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust for preservation.

Although sharing many mechanical features of the model that it replaced, including the 300 bhp 4.2 litre V8 engine, the new XK was notable as it followed the XJ saloon by adopting all-aluminium construction for the body and chassis. An industry first was the reactive bonnet system, designed to cushion the impact on any pedestrian who might be hit in an accident. A six-speed automatic transmission was standard, and top speed was limited to 155 mph (250 km/h). Acceleration to 60 mph or 100 km/h took just 6 seconds.

The styling of the new car was of particular interest. This was the first new Jaguar production model to be entirely styled under the direction of Jaguar Design Director, Ian Callum. The design combined traditional Jaguar elements, such as the radiator air intake, and the rear hatch seen on the E-type coupé of the 1960s, with a new, more modern, and aggressive stance, although the result was still a handsome and elegant car in keeping with Jaguar traditions.

Initially shown in coupé form, a convertible version was quickly added to the XK range, and it was expected that there would be additional engine variations in the future, including a supercharged version of the V8 engine. The XK was given a tremendous send-off with a press launch held in South Africa in the winter of 2006, and was acclaimed by road testers as the best Jaguar sports car since the E-type.

The new model went on sale in the UK and export markets in the spring of 2006.