2007 Jaguar XKR

Jaguar XKR, 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 420 bhp 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 louvers; unique 19 and 20-inch alloy wheel designs and a quad-exhaust system add to its overall presence.

The new 420 bhp Jaguar XKR, with 120 bhp more power than the normally aspirated 4.2-liter XK, the same strong and stiff aluminium body structure that ensures superb ride and handling, and a six-speed automatic transmission with Jaguar Sequential Shift that is regarded as class-leading in terms of gearchange speed as well as refinement. This is a car that performs in any conditions, at any speed. With superb torque at low engine speeds, instant acceleration is always available should you demand it. Similarly, the advanced steering and suspension set-up means the new XKR switches effortlessly from relaxed grand tourer to honed sports car with ease. It is everything the XK is and much more besides.

The new XKR uses a remarkable 4.2-liter supercharged AJ-V8 engine. Producing 420 bhp at 6250 rpm and 413 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm it is capable of propelling the Coupe version to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds and onto an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. The addition of a supercharger and twin air intakes means the new XKR benefits from a 120 bhp power increase over the normally aspirated 4.2-liter XK with which it shares its engine configuration. Torque, so essential for instant acceleration at any engine speed, also increases significantly – by 36% over the XK, although the overall weight of the XKR is raised by just 150 lbs. Consequently the power-to-weight ratio compared to the normally aspirated 4.2-liter XK is an impressive 34% higher.

Turning to transmission, Jaguar's Sequential Shift uniquely combines all the speed and involvement of a sequential manual gearbox with the comfort and convenience of a full automatic. The system consists of steering wheel-mounted paddles and a conventional gear selector lever, allowing the driver to switch between three automatic or paddle-operated gearbox modes.

With the much-admired new Jaguar XK already considered a future design classic, Jaguar's creative team, led by Ian Callum, had a great starting point from which to produce the XK-R. The XK range's elegant form draws on the lineage of the original XK and E-type sports cars, and by blending this unmistakeable Jaguar silhouette with contemporary flair its exterior forms a stunning blend of elegance, athleticism and definition.

The new XK's interior design has been just as highly praised and the XK R's cabin represents arguably the most sophisticated yet driver-focussed environment of any car in its class. The XKR has class-leading ergonomics, user-friendly in-car technology and simple, clear information displays in the instrument panel and main dashboard area. A unique sports seat design with additional lateral support for both the driver and front seat passenger has been added, with an ‘R' badge on the headrests, tachometer, steering wheel and gear selector. The design of the standard aluminium interior veneer is also unique to the XKR, featuring a ‘weave' pattern from the Advanced Lightweight Coupe showcar concept.