Introduction
Jaguar has taken a bold step back into its heritage with the 2025 XK140 DHC, a modern reinterpretation of the beloved 1950s roadster. While the original XK140 was celebrated for its elegant proportions and pure driving pleasure, the new DHC (Drop‑Head Coupe) aims to fuse that classic charm with today’s performance, safety, and convenience standards. The result is a car that feels at home on a Sunday drive along the coast just as comfortably as it does on a high‑speed highway run.
Exterior Design
The silhouette of the 2025 XK140 DHC is instantly recognizable: long, sweeping bonnet, short rear deck, and a rounded, almost sculptural cabin. Jaguar has retained the iconic chrome‑trimmed grille while giving it a subtly narrower, more aggressive bite. LED headlamps replace the vintage round units, offering sharp illumination without compromising the retro feel. The soft‑top mechanism, available in both a classic manually‑operated canvas and an optional electro‑hydraulic spider‑type, folds neatly into a rear deck‑integrated compartment, preserving the clean lines when down.
Alloy wheels come in 18‑inch and 20‑inch finishes, each bearing a design that references the wire‑spoke spokes of the 1950s but with a modern machined look. Subtle aerodynamic tweaks—such as a rear diffuser and a front splitter hidden within the bumper—help to reduce lift and improve stability at higher speeds without detracting from the timeless aesthetic.
Powertrain
Under the sleek hood sits a 5.0‑liter Supercharged V8, tuned to deliver 510 horsepower and 502 lb‑ft of torque. The engine retains the smooth, throaty exhaust note that made the original XK140 a legend, yet it is paired with an 8‑speed automatic transmission that provides rapid, seamless shifts. Power is routed to the rear wheels, preserving the classic rear‑wheel‑drive dynamics that Jaguar is famed for.
The engine’s modern internals—such as forged steel pistons, an advanced cooling system, and a start‑stop technology—ensure both performance and efficiency. The DHC can sprint from 0‑60 mph in just 4.0 seconds, a figure that places it comfortably among today’s performance coupes while still offering a relaxed cruising experience.
Interior & Technology
Inside, Jaguar has struck a delicate balance between nostalgic luxury and contemporary convenience. The dashboard is framed by soft‑touch leather and brushed aluminum, echoing the craftsmanship of the 1950s. A 12.3‑inch digital instrument cluster sits where traditional analog gauges once lived, offering customizable displays that can show classic needle‑style dials for those who prefer a retro look.
The infotainment system runs Jaguar’s latest Pivi Pro platform, supporting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and over‑the‑air updates. A premium 14‑speaker Meridian sound system fills the cabin with crystal‑clear audio, while heated, power‑adjustable seats draped in hand‑stitched leather keep occupants comfortable in all weather.
Safety and driver assistance have been a major focus. Standard equipment includes adaptive cruise control, blind‑spot monitoring, lane‑keeping assist, and a 360‑degree camera system. A new “Heritage Mode” subtly adjusts throttle response and steering weight to emulate the feel of a classic roadster, giving purists a taste of the past while retaining modern safety nets.
Driving Experience
The 2025 XK140 DHC feels like a conversation between two eras. The steering is precise yet light enough to enjoy leisurely cornering, while the suspension—a blend of adaptive dampers and a modestly stiff spring setup—offers a comfortable ride without sacrificing agility. On winding roads, the car’s balance and rear‑wheel‑drive layout provide an engaging, almost visceral experience, reminiscent of the original XK140’s reputation for driver‑focused excitement.
On the highway, the supercharged V8 delivers effortless power, and the 8‑speed gearbox ensures that gear changes are almost imperceptible, allowing the driver to focus on the scenery. The soft‑top, when lowered, introduces an invigorating rush of wind, further enhancing the classic convertible sensation.
Market Position & Pricing
Jaguar positions the XK140 DHC as a niche luxury convertible, targeting enthusiasts who appreciate heritage but demand modern reliability. Pricing is expected to start around $115,000 for the base manual soft‑top version, with the electro‑hydraulic top and additional tech packages pushing the price toward $135,000. While it competes with the likes of the Mercedes‑Benz SL‑Series and the Porsche 911 Cabriolet, its unique blend of vintage styling and contemporary performance gives it a distinct place in the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does the “Heritage Mode” affect driving dynamics?
Heritage Mode softens throttle response and slightly reduces steering assist, giving a more tactile, analog feel while still retaining essential electronic stability controls.
2. Is the soft‑top fully automatic?
Both options are available: a classic manual canvas top that operates with a hand lever, and an optional electro‑hydraulic top that opens and closes at the touch of a button.
3. What fuel economy can be expected?
With the start‑stop system active, the XK140 DHC achieves an estimated 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, respectable for a V8‑powered convertible.
4. Are there any customization options?
Jaguar offers a range of interior leather colors, wheel designs, and exterior paint finishes, including a “heritage palette” inspired by original XK140 hues.
5. What warranty coverage is provided?
The vehicle comes with a 4‑year/50,000‑mile basic warranty, plus a 4‑year/50,000‑mile powertrain warranty and 5‑year roadside assistance.
Disclaimer
All specifications, pricing, and feature details are based on Jaguar’s pre‑release information and may be subject to change before final production. Availability may vary by market. Please consult an authorized Jaguar dealer for the most current data.