It has just has been crowned 'Car of the Year' and 'GT of the Year' at the Top Gear awards, the first time Jaguar has done so.

Editor Michael Harvey said the XK was a car everyone recognised as beautiful and reclaimed the lost role of the Grand Tourer. Jamie Kidman, USA contributor, said this model was not only the best Jaguar in 40 years, it was a real Jaguar.

Globally, Jaguar has already sold over 10,000 XKs since its launch.

The XK has already picked up some notable awards in the UK and across Europe this year, including 'Most Exciting Car to be launched in 2006' by What Car? magazine and 'Car of the Year' and 'Best Coupe' at the Auto Express new car honours.

Other awards were in recognition of exceptional safety features.