Looking to get very serious about competing with the likes of BMW’s M series, Jaguar is bringing its new XKR-S GT to the track table. Tagged as the big cat's "ultimate road-going/track ready XK" the new kitty unveiled at the New York Auto Show this week isn’t just all pretty aero-bits and spoiler.
Developed by Jaguar’s ETO division, the new XKR-S GT will be a limited run affair. Only 30 of the quick kitties will be made making it the rarest "R" model in the marques 25 year history of all things R.
Working off existing XKR-S architecture the new GT receives a full track-day makeover. Bespoke aerodynamic parts along with upgraded suspension bits are in place to enhance downforce and high speed cornering scenarios.
Slipstream aero enhancements include a new carbon-fiber front splitter, dive planes, exaggerated wheel-arch spats, a not so subtle rear wing, rear diffuser treatment and aluminum valance. All this engineering trickery brings about a maximum downforce of 145 kg (320 lbs) to the GT.
Prior to reaching the next corner’s apex, braking will be required. To do this Jaguar has fitted the GT out with a new carbon ceramic stopping system. This first for a production Jag finds rather large-esque discs to the tune of 398 mm (15.7 in.) on the front and 380 mm (14.97 in.) on the back. Squeezing the daylights out of these ceramic plates is managed courtesy of 6 and 4-piston monoblock brake calipers, respectively.
Managing weight transference, the quick new cat also receives right proper suspension modifications. Kitty’s new front and rear suspension tweaks include a wider front track, increased camber for enhanced lateral abilities, revised bushings, and a new steering system with a faster steering ratio. All these tricks come courtesy of Jaguar’s new F-Type.
Bringing the car down to track level heights is accomplished via a race-derived twin spring system with adaptive shocks and height-adjustable features. Spring rates are increased 68 percent at the front and 25 percent at the rear. Forged 20-inch lightweight alloy wheels are designed to optimize brake cooling while keeping weight down, while rubbers in the form of Pirelli Corsa 255/35 up front and 305/30s on the rear should ensure optimal road grippings.
Of course all this technological trickery is pointless if there isn’t an engine to match. In this case Jaguar has brought its 542 hp powerplant with matching 680 Nm (502 ft.lbs.) of torque to the table. Running the power through a race-bred 6-speed gearbox and active electronic differential, Jaguar reports the fastcat brings in performance figures of 3.9 seconds to 100 km/h (62 mph) and a top speed of 299 km/h (186 mph).
Source: Jaguar