IT'S been the fastest selling sports car in Jaguar’s history, eclipsing luminaries like the XK120 and the E-Type.

The latest set of changes ensure the XK series remains one of the most desirable shapes on the road. The main difference is a revised front end with a cleaner nose cone, most evident on the supercharged XKR versions that also benefit from a lower ‘mouth profile’ in the front bumper.

The rear has also been tidied up slightly with larger exhaust pipe finishers for the XK8 and quad version on the XKR.

The XK8 features a rear spoiler as standard, the XKR version again being that bit bigger and bolder. Side sills have also been introduced.

The wheels have been perennial targets for the stylists and there are now three revised multi-spoke designs to choose from; the 18-inch Aris, the 19-inch Atlas and the 20-inch BBS Sepang rims.

All XK buyers will also have the option of increasing the specification of their car by opting for Premium and Technology packs. The SE option packs add features such as reverse park control, sports seats, bigger wheels and revised interior trim according to taste at reasonable prices.

The interior also features a revised array of veneers including a rich elm and a beautiful piano black finish. A choice of 15 body colours is also available, 11 of which are metallic.

Some of the best bits haven’t changed. The XK8’s engine is still a 4.2-litre 300bhp unit marshalled by an electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission first seen in the S-TYPE R.

A whole raft of electronic safety and control functions harness that prodigious power. Although top speed is artificially mandated at 155mph, the sprint to 60mph will detain you for a mere 6.1 seconds, only 0.9 seconds slower than the 400bhp supercharged XKR.

Without the whinnying of the supercharger to mask it, the XK8’s engine is possibly a more satisfying companion. Built in Wales at the Bridgend plant, it certainly has a great set of lungs, the maximum power being extracted at a heady 6,000rpm.

The classic Jaguar J-gate gear selector remains as simple to use as ever and the innovations which debuted in 2003 are welcome.

Traffic sensing adaptive cruise control made an appearance as an option, the system featuring Forward Alert, an additional feature that warns drivers of slowing traffic ahead.

Emergency Brake Assist and Dynamic Stability Control help keep all the physics firmly in check if you didn’t tick the Forward Alert box when specifying your XK8.

Both Coupe and Convertible bodystyles are 2+2s - which means that you get a pair of occasional rear seats. In the case of the convertible, it’s tempting to wonder why Jaguar didn’t do away with them completely in order to feature a stow-away hood.

Having to fiddle with a tonneau cover is usually a hassle you can do without at the side of the road when the sun suddenly comes out.

Although few would deny that there are more technologically advanced big coupes about, there’s nothing that can touch the XK8 for sheer elegance.

The latest set of changes keep the big Jaguar at the top of the tree. One can but sympathise with Ian Callum, the man tasked to pen the replacement for the XK8. He’s got a tough task on his hands.

FACTFILE

Jaguar XK8 range

Prices: £49,920 (Coupe) £56,720 Convertible - on the road

CO2 emissions: 279-284g/km

Performance: Coupe Max Speed 155mph / 0-60mph 6.1s

Fuel consumption: Coupe - (urban) 16.9mpg (extra urban) 34mpg (combined) 24.9mpg

Safety features: Twin front and side airbags / ABS / EBD / ARTS