2008-XK-4.2-ZF6HP
If in S mode does the car still use all six speeds?
wj

 

Yes to your question. Just different shift points. From the owners manual:Automatic operating modes

There are two available automatic modes:

D - Drive: All six gears are changed automatically. The shift points are determined by accelerator pedal position and road speed to provide the best balance of performance, refinement and fuel economy for the large majority of driving conditions.

S - Sport: The transmission operates automatically, but the gearshift points are modified to maximise the vehicle response in demanding driving conditions. This mode is not suitable for town or highway cruising.

 

Dunno about that. Those throttle blip downshifts sound great in town.

 

yes they do!
Until I do something with all shocks (two in garage looking for more but may go with some coil over) I find that in s mode there is less wallowing when going down our roadways at speed so I'm spending a lot of time in S simply for the improved handling.
wj

 

The 2008 has paddles, right? Use a paddle once in SPORT MODE and you'll be in MANUAL SPORT MODE. Gotta hold the right paddle for three seconds to go back to AutoSport.

 

yes I have paddles but haven't come to terms with them while pretending the xk is a sports car going through switchbacks. In time I'm certain....great fun.
I spoke with a fellow yesterday, purchased an F type v8, great deal 40K miles, 29K out the door! He's in love with it, he also looks @ right. sitting in it..mid 30s where as I'm early 70's and truthfully comparing the body styles side by side I prefer the xks lines enough to give up on the F type fun factor.
wj