There is something about a car you've driven. You never forget it and even if it is not the most exotic car in the world, you tend to remember what you did in it or with. Now, there were tears in my eyes when we bid adieu to the Maruti Suzuki 800. The car was an icon and more so one that defined the way we Indians made it a success overnight. It was the best thing to have.
Now those tears have grown two-fold as Jaguar announces that they will cease production of the XK 2+2 GT coupe and convertible after ruling at the top of the model range for 18 years. The decision to stop making the XK comes after the hugely successful launch of the F-Type. The sales figures of the XK have seen a drop ever since the F-Type came along.
Now that's extremely sad, considering that the XK was the first car to be created by current Jaguar design director Ian Callum. It was this second generation XK that brought back the Jaguar fans and it was a turn-around for the company too.
The GT flagship, since its introduction in 2006, has sold more than 54000 cars globally and you would think that Jaguar would reconsider bringing it back, but no. the concentration now is on the baby Jag saloon - the XE.
For now, Jaguar will give this XK a big farewell, so expect some limited editions on their way. It's sad that the XK will no longer be a part of the line-up. I guess, that is how evolution works!
