Our local Jaguar dealer who had done servicing on my XJ6 (X350 model) invited us to a test day at a local up-market hotel, (it used to be a stately home, now hotel and golf course).

I was able to drive the XJ diesel, which is not exported to the USA. This is a tubocharged 3 litre V6. Well, I have to say it is a magnificent car, but even bigger than my current XJ which is quite big enough ! The car drove superbly, and one cannot tell it is a diesel the engine is so quiet, yet has a power equal to my petrol model. The 'virtual' instruments seem to work very well, although one has to query the replacement cost if it goes wrong.

One thing I thought was not very good was the headroom in the car. I am very short (5'6"), yet I found the top of my head brushing against the roof lining, so I lowered the seat, which then made me sit lower than I normally like. I suppose the car has a very high waistline compared to the old model. Of course affording one is impossible right now, but 2-year old cars are now coming in at a lot less money, so who knows what next year will hold.

As for the XK, this is a lovely car, but for a younger man. I think it will be very easy to lose one's licence with this car. I was up to 90 in about 200 yards, on a by-pass well-known for police attention. David Beckham got caught there some years ago trying out his Ferrari !!