The convertible's center-mounted brake light over the trunk is a sad afterthought, and it may be a problem. We noticed condensation collecting inside the loosely attached appendage, and the light itself scars the otherwise intelligently designed exterior. Our guess is that this car was designed as a coupe first, because the convertible needs some work. Stylistically, the XK8 can best be described as cat-like. Sorry, but the imagination immediately grabs hold of the car's namesake and applies whiskers and claws.
Headlights slope off with a feline's squint, and the oval grille opening is downright scary.
Of course, if you're from a state that requires front-end license plates, you might want to consider relocating before purchasing the XK8. Frontal plates will only blotch the Jag's perfect smile. The hood's subtle contours form two long, graceful indentations that, from inside, nicely conform to the driver and passenger positions. Unfortunately, big black windshield wipers obstruct that view of the hood. All angles provide good visibility, but there is plenty to keep the attention inside.