Skip advert
Advertisement

Jaguar XKR-S

The hottest model in the range is more capable than before - and the wet conditions didn’t stop us enjoying the XKR-S

Not since the XJ220 supercar in 1992 has Jaguar produced a car as hardcore as the XKR-S.

Based on the standard XKR coupe, the hottest model in the range is more capable than ever before. The 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine has been given a boost in power to 542bhp, thanks to a revised ECU and exhaust system. Torque has been increased as well, and the result is a car that can accelerate from 0-62mph in only 4.4 seconds.

Advertisement - Article continues below

But it’s not all about straight-line speed with the Jaguar, as updates to the suspension components and set-up mean it is more precise than before.

It still suffers from a lack of traction, though, so turning off the electronic driver aids is not for the faint-hearted. The XKR-S is more of a roadgoing GT than an out-and-out track car, but if you do switch off the traction control, its playful chassis allows you to adjust the car’s attitude in corners using the throttle. So you can indulge in powerslides at will.

On the road, the supple suspension does its best to cushion occupants from imperfections, despite the huge 20-inch alloys. Jaguar has hit the right note with the styling, too. The LED daytime running lights (also found on other XKs), aggressive front bumper, air scoops above the grille and large wheelarches, sills and rear wing complete its sporty appearance.

So why does such a talented machine finish in eighth place? Well, good though the XKR-S undoubtedly is, the XKR is almost as fun – and costs nearly £18,500 less. That makes the latest model an expensive, if hugely talented, luxury.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Continue Reading
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Huge Audi new car blitz to bring us 9 models in 2 years
Upcoming Audi models - four-way image
News

Huge Audi new car blitz to bring us 9 models in 2 years

After a quiet few years, the German giant is gearing up for its biggest product onslaught to date
25 Mar 2024
Posh new trim level for Dacia Sandero while the Sandero Stepway gets more power
Dacia Sandero - front
News

Posh new trim level for Dacia Sandero while the Sandero Stepway gets more power

Both the Sandero and Sandero Stepway ranges have been tweaked, gaining more safety features to meet the latest regulations
26 Mar 2024
Road tax set to rise in April: here’s how much more you’ll pay
Road tax documentation
News

Road tax set to rise in April: here’s how much more you’ll pay

Drivers with newer cars can expect to be paying roughly £10 more per year, a although the biggest gas guzzlers will fare the worst
26 Mar 2024