I read on Wikipedia that the XK8 Like its predecessor, the XJS, the XK models use a 2+2 seating layout for the interior. An optional "Jaguar boot" option involved the removal of the small rear seats in favour of increased luggage space.
I have never seen this. Has anyone got this extra feature on there XK8? Any pictures?

 

There are several owners here who have permanently removed their rear seat and converted the area to functional storage. Perhaps some of them will chime in here....

 

The (useless) rear seat design on the XK8 and several other marques was done mainly because it is far easier for a manufacturer to obtain Type Approval for a seat/seat belt installation than it is for a luggage space where restraints must be independently submitted for testing and certification.

Some owners have removed the seats and come up with an alternative luggage space area and I've seen pictures of some tidy solutions. This definitely contravenes European Type Approval Regulations but I have no idea whether it is permissable in other World markets.

Graham

 

I don't know why people insist the rear seats are useless - they aren't intended for adults, but children fit just fine.

You can't get two adults and two children in a Boxster or an MX5 for example, but you can in an XK8. You can even fit an adult at a push - better than walking at least.

If you don't need to be able to transport kids, then turning it into more luggage space is an option, but given that the seat base and back aren't that thick you aren't going to gain a great deal of extra space.

 

Ha ha ha. If you think the rear seats in the Jag are useless, try a Mercedes 107 (mine are 560SL and 450SL). No typical human being can sit back there. I put a Dual subwoofer there and it fills the entire area. At least with power seats forward, you couid strap a child in the Jaguar back seat and be confident the kid will not fly out on the highway. Interesting factoid about Type Approval; in the 107 the seats were an option and luggage space was the default.

 

Anyone got pictures? I believe in U.K. we haven’t that option, unless someone proves me wrong?

 

just do a search of the forum - here are a few of the many threads on rear seat deletes. I would say philhef's example in the pic is nicely done - but you will see other examples in the various threads

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...g-97973/page2/

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...project-82601/

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...ptions-103014/