Jaguar has made a number of significant changes to the stunning XK – the most significant being a brand new engine range.

Replacing the venerable 4.2-litre motor is a 5-litre V8 with 380bhp, and a massive 500bhp if you go for the supercharged XKR.

We sampled the entry-level V8 at its international launch, based around the incredible roads leading into the mountains from Nice, in the South of France.

Ian Callum – legendary designer of the XK – really hit the nail on the head with this car.

A Jaguar should look effortlessly fast and elegant; traits which this sportscar has in abundance.

The facelifted XK only has subtle changes, including LED rear lights which take a lead from the XF saloon, LED side-repeaters inside sleeker door mirrors and cooling ducts framing the front bumper.

XF-inspired interior

Inside the changes are more noticeable. The rotary gear selector which rises from the centre console in the Jaguar XF has been fitted.

The crisp and clear blue and white dials are new too. Choose the top-level Portfolio specification and 20-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, more luxurious seats, suede headlining and a Bowers and Wilkins stereo are yours for £5k.

The last addition deserves particular mention – it’s one of the best systems we’ve heard in a car, with sound of the highest fidelity.

But, most of the time, you won’t even need to turn it on because the 5-litre V8 is a petrolheads aural dream.

It’s quiet when you cruise, but put your foot down and the noise is pure movie V8 soundtrack – it even pops like a racing car when you lift off the throttle.

Acceleration is brisk, with 0-62mph dispatched in 5.2 seconds (almost a second quicker than the old model) and a top speed limited to 155mph.

Direct fuel injection and continuously variable valve timing help efficiency too – the emissions of 264g/km and combined economy of 25.2mpg are an improvement, despite the extra power.

Speed and suppleness

If you want a car which rides comfortably and handles well, Jaguar is at the head of the pack.

Despite running on big 19 or 20-inch wheels the XK is sublimely comfortable, barely flinching even cruising over motorway expansion gaps at 70mph.

On the tight and twisting roads of the Route Napoleon in Southern France the XK felt light and direct, with massive grip and great balance.

The latest version of Jaguar’s variable suspension technology can adapt instantly to driving conditions and stiffen or relax the car as you corner, brake, accelerate or cruise.

It can even predict what you are going to do next and take appropriate action.

Just how a Jaguar should be

This mixture of great handling and comfort is perfect for the Jaguar badge and gave us the sense we could drive it for hour after hour without getting bored or tired.

Our test car was a convertible and we found it gave the XK an even greater sense of occasion, while letting more of the awesome roar of the engine into the equation.

When it goes on sale in summer the 5-litre XK coupe will cost £59,900 with the drop-top being £6k more. It will go into direct competition with the BMW 6 Series, Porsche 911, Mercedes SL and Audi S5.