He's Back Baby! Jaguar Unveils Austin Powers XK8 in New York

He's Back Baby! Jaguar Unveils Austin Powers XK8 in New York

Jaguar introduced Austin Powers' latest lady magnet, the Jaguar XK8 at the New York International Auto Show today. Mike Myers, the actor who plays Austin Powers, International Man of Mystery, will drive a special Union Jack painted version of the Jaguar XK8 in the much anticipated third installment of the wildly popular comedy sketch due out this summer.

Jaguar vehicles have been driven by the character Austin Powers since the first film in the series, when the historical Jaguar E-Type painted in the Union Jack got the spotlight as his hip mode of transportation.

The Jaguar E-Type was first introduced in the early sixties and was one of the first examples of applying the principles of aerodynamics to motor car design. Much like Austin Powers himself, it was considered a stylish balance of adventure and prowess.

"The sensuous curves, powerful engine, and imposing stance of the XK8 make it the ideal mode of transportation for a character like Austin Powers," said Susan Callaway, Vice President and General Manager of Jaguar North America. "Having our products showcased in movies allows us to reach a broad consumer audience and become further identifiable and accessible as a brand."

The Jaguar XK8 is a sleek, assertive vehicle that fits neatly into the family of Jaguar cars. Its 32 valve 290-horsepower AJ-V8 engine and luxurious interior combine excitement and elegance both on screen and off.

It's been three years since Austin Powers, that swinging international man of mystery, has had to face his arch enemy, Dr. Evil. But after Dr. Evil and his accomplice Mini-Me escape from a maximum-security prison, Austin is called to action once more in his third and final installment of the highly successful Austin Powers movie franchise.

Teaming up with the mysterious yet peculiar Goldmember, Dr. Evil hatches a time-travelling scheme to take over the world, one that involves the kidnapping of Nigel Powers, Austin's beloved father and England's most renowned spy. As he chases the villains through time, Austin visits 1975 and joins forces with his old flame, Foxxy Cleopatra, a streetwise but stylish detective. Together, Austin and Foxxy must find a way to save Nigel and stop Dr. Evil and Goldmember from their mischievous mayhem.

Mike Myers once again takes on multiple roles, portraying Austin Powers, Dr. Evil and Fat Bastard, as well as another new character. Joining the cast are Sir Michael Caine as Nigel Powers, and singing sensation Beyonce' Knowles (of the multi-platinum group Destiny's Child) as Foxxy Cleopatra. Returning are series veterans Michael York, Robert Wagner, Seth Green, Mindy Sterling, and Verne J. Troyer.

Austin Powers III is directed by Jay Roach and written by Mike Myers and Michael McCullers. The film is produced by Mike Myers, John Lyons, and Eric McLeod along with co-producer Gregg Taylor.

Audiences will have to wait a bit to see the third installment in the Austin Powers series until it hits theaters on July 26, 2002.

March 28, 2002

Copyright © 2002 Rueters