Jaguar xk8 xkr body kit, headlights, side skirts and bonnet vents

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Certainly! Here's an in-depth appraisal of Grantley Design’s Jaguar XK8 body kit, aimed at enthusiasts considering this bespoke styling upgrade:

Appraisal: Grantley Design Jaguar XK8 Body Kit

The Grantley Design body kit for the Jaguar XK8 brings a bold, custom reinterpretation of the grand tourer's classic lines. Designed to enhance the XK8's presence while respecting its luxurious character, this body kit is a favorite among Jaguar modifiers who want to add a touch of aggressive styling without veering too far from the car’s original DNA.

Design Philosophy

Grantley Design takes a refined approach with their XK8 kit, aiming to give the car a sportier, more contemporary edge while preserving its long, elegant silhouette. The kit often includes a front bumper, rear valance, side skirts, and sometimes a boot spoiler — all crafted to blend with the XK8’s curves, rather than fight against them.

The result is a more aggressive stance, tighter lines, and an appearance that subtly nods to both Aston Martin and modern Jaguar design cues, without making the XK8 look like it’s trying too hard. For many owners, it's the aesthetic update the car should’ve come with from the factory.

Build Quality & Fitment

Grantley Design is known for its high-quality fiberglass work. The panels are generally well-molded, with decent thickness and rigidity — avoiding the flimsy feel that plagues some cheaper kits. Fitment is usually very good, though like any fiberglass bodywork, some fine-tuning and professional prep are often needed to get a truly OEM-level finish.

Most buyers recommend having the kit fitted and painted by an experienced body shop, especially when aligning with the XK8’s factory lines and panel gaps. When installed properly, the parts integrate seamlessly with the stock bodywork, creating a cohesive and factory-like result.

Styling Impact

The transformation is dramatic but tasteful. The front bumper often includes larger intakes and a more sculpted lower lip, giving the XK8 a more purposeful look. The side skirts lower the profile without making it impractical, while the rear diffuser or valance brings in a hint of motorsport influence.

Overall, the kit gives the XK8 a modernized and slightly more muscular appearance — something that appeals to both long-time Jaguar fans and newcomers looking to stand out in a sea of factory-standard examples.

Practical Considerations

• Ground Clearance: The kit generally preserves reasonable ground clearance, making it suitable for daily or weekend use without constant scraping issues.

• Paint Matching: Due to the age of most XK8s, matching original paint can be tricky. A full respray or at least a full panel blend is usually recommended for the best visual outcome.

• Resale Impact: While the kit appeals to a niche market, XK8 values are rising — and a well-fitted, tasteful kit from a respected brand like Grantley Design can enhance desirability for the right buyer. However, purists may prefer the original lines.

Pros

• Stylish, aggressive look that complements the XK8’s shape

• High-quality fiberglass construction

• Good fitment with professional installation

• Makes an aging design feel refreshed and unique

• Maintains the car’s luxury grand tourer feel

Cons

• Requires professional installation for best results

• Paint matching can be challenging on older vehicles

• May not appeal to Jaguar purists

• Slightly niche appeal in the resale market

Final Verdict

Grantley Design’s body kit for the Jaguar XK8 is one of the most tasteful and well-executed visual upgrades available for this iconic grand tourer. It enhances the car’s style without compromising its heritage, delivering a modern yet respectful facelift. For XK8 owners who want to stand apart — whether at shows, on drives, or simply in the car park — this kit offers a high-impact, high-class solution.

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