Jaguar XKR

17th February 2010

MEET the fastest Jaguar XKR ever! This is the latest version of the Big Cat's range-topping coupe, which can now hit a maximum speed of 174mph.

Making its worldwide debut at the Geneva Motor Show next week, the new model gets the same 503bhp 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine as the existing car but thanks to a new £3,500 optional Speed Pack has its top speed raised from 155mph to 174mph.

Russ Varney, chief programme engineer, XK Series, explained the philosophy behind the uprated XKR: “With 503bhp and 625Nm of torque, the XKR has immense reserves of power and acceleration which impress everyone who experience it.

"The car has always had the potential to reach speeds far beyond its original electronically limited maximum and many of our customers have expressed an interest in a car that can safely be driven faster where conditions permit. The new Speed Pack allows them to release some of that potential and give them control of the fastest Jaguar XK we’ve made to date.”

As well as a recalibrated engine and transmission, the Speed Pack features a revised front splitter and larger rear spoiler to keep the car more stable at high speed. The XKR’s Active Differential Control has also been adjusted to reduce steering sensitivity at very high speeds and further improve stability.

Visual tweaks include body-coloured side sills and rear diffuser, a chrome finish to the window surrounds as well as upper and lower mesh grilles plus side vents. Red brake callipers with a Jaguar ‘R’ logo are joined by new 20-inch alloy wheels.

The Speed Pack also features seven body colours – Ultimate Black, Polaris White, Salsa Red, Liquid Silver, Lunar Grey, Kyanite Blue and Spectrum Blue.

Customers who order the Speed Pack can also order a £4,000 Black Pack, which features a range of additional styling upgrades including gloss black finishing for the wheels, window surrounds and front grilles, along with the option of an ‘XKR’ side body graphic that runs along the door sills. Body colours are limited to Ultimate Black, Polaris White and Salsa Red.

Inside, all XKRs with the Black Pack are trimmed in Charcoal leather. Three interior finishes and veneers for the fascia and door trims are also available – Dark Oak, Dark Mesh Aluminium and Piano Black.

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