So BMW M5 is no longer the only Nurburgring Taxi. There’s a new kid on the block. Well, it’s a cat actually, and it’s quite big. It is the Jaguar XJ Supersport version, fitted with Sport and Speed Pack options. A taxi finished in matte grey, with 510 PS, and top speed of 174 mph, racing seats, but no fare meter. Oh yes.

The XJ ‘Ring Taxi is no where near as comfortable and refined as the standard car. The interior is a like a prison cell, only less welcoming. The standard leather-trimmed heated and cooled seats are replaced with four racing bucket seats with racing harness. But then you are wrestling the bends of the Green Hell, yo do need four-point harness and roll cage to keep you safe. This way you can enjoy the thrill of the Nurburgring with peace of mind.

As mentioned this XJ benefits from the Sport and Speed packs, which in turn offer a subtle body kit and a module to raise the top speed from 155mph to 174mph. The exterior pack includes a front splitter and extended bootlid lip to maximise aerodynamic stability at high speed, plus red brake callipers, a gloss black finish to the front grille and lower air opening and side vents, and 20-inch ‘Venom’ five-spoke alloy wheels with a diamond-turned sparkle silver finish.

You can buy these packs for your road-going XJ, but don’t take it to the ‘Ring yourself. Go in the taxi. It’s safer and much more fun. And cheaper.