While we’re being bombard with stupid EVs and hybrids, it’s so cool to see cars like the new Jaguar XKR-S! It is a naughtier version of the XKR, and with 550 bhp it is the most potent series production car Jaguar has ever built.
But it’s not just the power, the XKR-S also looks fantastic. It is noticeably different than the normal XKRs with a brand-new face that is a result of an aerodynamic kit. It gets a revised bumper with an air splitter, new headlights, a aggressive bonnet, awesome air intakes on the sides of the front bumper, new taller side skirts, a new a rear diffuser and a rear spoiler. It is to all intents and purposes the ultimate Jag XK.
The car also benefits from bespoke suspension changes to the front and rear offer ultimate precision, control and driver appeal, while a reprogrammed Adaptive Dynamics system allows the enthusiastic driver to explore the edges of the handling envelope.
Those tweaks were much needed to cope with the fury of what’s under the bonnet. The revised supercharged V8 in the XKR-S delivers 550PS and 680Nm of torque. It gives the car a blistering performance. 0-60mph takes 4.2 seconds, with 0-100mph dismissed in just 8.6 seconds, and the top speed 186mph (300km/h). Superb!
“The XKR-S is a bold and exciting new model for Jaguar,” said Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar’s new Global Brand Director. “We expect to attract both loyal and new Jaguar driving enthusiasts who still want the comfort, opulence and class only a Jaguar can offer, combined with inspirational performance.”
More images, details and video of the XKR-S will be released at the Geneva Motor Show.
Alongside the exciting new XKR-S, Jaguar will be marking the 50th anniversary of the E-Type with the first in a series of celebrations that take place during 2011.
Jaguar will be hosting E-Type drives at the Parc des Eaux Vives in Geneva, where the original car was launched by the marque’s founder Sir William Lyons half a century ago.
The appeal of E-Type transcended the automotive world. Such is the inherent rightness of its proportions, stance and purity of line, that it is a permanent exhibit in New York’s Museum of Modern Art.
Its influence is still apparent in Jaguar’s modern range – products that offer a peerless blend of performance, comfort, cutting-edge technology and award-winning design.
“It is impossible to overstate the impact the E-Type had,” said Ian Callum, Jaguar Design Director. “Here was a car that encapsulated the spirit of the revolutionary era it came to symbolise. We’re looking forward to celebrating achievement and looking forward with our all-new sports cars in Geneva.”
