30-07-2006
Jaguar is proud to unveil its new supercharged sports car – the Jaguar XKR. Building on the excellence of the all-new XK introduced in late 2005, the XKR takes the Jaguar experience to new heights.
Like the normally aspirated XK model, the new XKR makes intelligent use of practical, modern technology such as its industry-leading aluminium monocoque body structure. In addition, an uprated 420bhp (SAE) supercharged V8 engine and class-leading calibration of its state-of-the-art, six-speed automatic transmission bring it a level of accessible, real-world performance that makes the XKR the most impressive, everyday, sporting GT in its class.
And the XKR’s powerful statement of intent is emphatically reinforced by enhanced sporting styling cues such as a unique front bumper, aluminium-finish grilles and bonnet louvres. While unique 19 and 20-inch alloy wheel designs and a quad-exhaust system add to its overall presence.
“The new supercharged XKR captures perfectly the essence of what makes a Jaguar XK so special,” commented Bibiana Boerio, Jaguar Cars managing director. “It is a flawless combination of refined Grand Tourer and serious performance sports car, that delivers a truly rewarding and exhilarating driving experience.”
NEW JAGUAR XKR AT A GLANCE
• New supercharged Jaguar XK sports car – the XKR, available as a Coupe or Convertible
• All the attractions and attributes of the XK – but amplified in the ‘R’ to complement the extra power and performance
• 4.2-litre, supercharged V8 engine developing 420bhp and 560Nm of torque
• 0-60mph time of 4.9 seconds and 155mph (electronically limited) top speed. 50-70mph in just 2.5 seconds
• All-aluminium construction means a lighter, stiffer car, improving handling and agility. At 1665kg, the Coupe is 70kg lighter than its predecessor, while the 1715kg Convertible is 100kg lighter than the previous convertible XKR
• Uprated springs and dampers and recalibrated Computer Active Technology Suspension system for enhanced ride and handling
• Class-leading six-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted ‘paddles’ for ultra-quick gear shifts
• Active Exhaust System to ensure cruising speed refinement but purposeful V8 roar under hard acceleration.
• Subtle XKR exterior styling enhancements include a sportier grille and front bumper design, louvred bonnet, unique aluminium-effect side power vents and new wheel designs
• Enhanced interior includes unique aluminium ‘weave’ design on the fascia (polished burr walnut is optional at no extra cost) and XKR sports seats
• Intuitive controls and driver-focussed technologies are available – including Keyless Entry, Keyless Start, advanced Touchscreen and Active Front Lighting
• Occupies unique market position, with performance to match rivals costing up to £30,000 more but price to match less well-performing rival models
• In summary, the epitome of a contemporary Jaguar Grand Touring sports car and a perfect illustration of the marque’s philosophy of building beautiful, fast cars
• Available to order from July onwards, with prices starting at £67,495 – a premium of just 12.5% over the normally aspirated XK.
Jaguar's new supercharged sports car will make its global debut here in the UK at the British International Motor Show, to be held at the ExCeL Centre in London’s Docklands.
The XKR will be unveiled at a press conference on the Jaguar stand on Tuesday 18 July.
"We are thrilled that the XKR will make its global debut at Jaguar's home show," commented Jaguar's UK Managing Director Geoff Cousins.
"Following the resounding success of the XK since it went on sale earlier this year, we are confident that the much awaited XKR will continue to build on the momentum the car has generated for our dealers."
As with all Jaguars, the new XK is designed, engineered and developed at the company's Whitley Product Development Centre in Coventry. There, some of the most advanced facilities in the car industry – including computer-aided design, advanced engineering, vehicle component development, safety test centres and engine testing – are used to create world-class cars such as the X-TYPE, S-TYPE, XJ and of course XK.
The new XKR sports car will be produced at the company's state of the art Castle Bromwich manufacturing centre in Birmingham. In addition to being the assembly plant for three of Jaguar's four models, this is also where the aluminium bodies and structures for the XJ and XK are constructed.
If you are attending the London show, the Jaguar UK team will be pleased to welcome you on Stand S20 in the South Hall at ExCeL to view the sensational new all-aluminium XKR.
Text and photos courtesy of Fors Motor Company
