I have discovered that during start on my 2006 XK8, it is not necessary to hold the brake pedal when turning the key to the start the car. Is this normal for a 2006 XK8? Most cars today require the brake pedal to be depressed for the starter to be activated.

 

That's also the case with my 2000 XK8. No brake pedal needed.

 

completely normal.

 

Keep in mind that your car is now pushing 14 years of age. Significant operational differences between then and now....

 

Yeah, that's normal. It's based on old bones, so not so modern in certain ways. Admittedly, I've driven very few cars that require the brake pedal to be depressed before starting. Maybe that says something about what I tend to drive...

 

I believe the brake fail safe is for park to drive.

 

Cars with push button start typically are this way. Older cars with key switch starting typically are not; manual transmission key switch starting systems often require the clutch pedal depressed as you don't want the starter to physically move the car forward.

These cars do need the brake pedal depressed to move the shifter out of park though, that's the real safety feature.