Jaguar to launch XKR-S and celebrate 50 years of E-Type in Geneva

23 February 2011

Jaguar will launch its most potent series production car ever, the all‑new XKR‑S, at the Geneva Motor Show on March 1.

Jaguar will launch its most potent series production car ever, the all‑new XKR‑S, at the Geneva Motor Show on March 1.

This all‑new model will significantly broaden the appeal of the XK range, offering enthusiastic drivers a compelling, fresh choice in the luxury GT class.

With an uprated supercharged V8 engine, overhauled suspension and a new aerodynamically‑driven design, the XKR‑S is the ultimate expression of Jaguar's long held duality of purpose: GT luxury with incredible performance.

"The XKR‑S is a bold and exciting new model for Jaguar," said Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar's new Global Brand Director. "We expect to attract both loyal and new Jaguar driving enthusiasts who still want the comfort, opulence and class only a Jaguar can offer, combined with inspirational performance."

The XKR‑S produces 550PS and 680Nm of torque, enough power to offer a top speed of 186mph (300km/h). Its performance credentials speak for themselves: 0‑60mph takes 4.2 seconds, with 0‑100mph dismissed in just 8.6 seconds.

The XKR‑S is not merely the quickest Jaguar ever, but also the most agile, responsive and driver‑focused. It exploits the XK's strong, lightweight aluminium body architecture to maximise both handling and economy. Alongside its incredible performance, the XKR‑S is the only car in its class that emits less than 300g/km CO2.

Bespoke suspension changes to the front and rear offer ultimate precision, control and driver appeal, while a reprogrammed Adaptive Dynamics system allows the enthusiastic driver to explore the edges of the handling envelope.

Full details, images and video of the XKR‑S will be available on Geneva press day ‑ March 1.

Alongside the exciting new XKR‑S, Jaguar will be marking the 50th anniversary of the E‑Type with the first in a series of celebrations that take place during 2011.

Jaguar will be hosting E‑Type drives at the Parc des Eaux Vives in Geneva, where the original car was launched by the marque's founder Sir William Lyons half a century ago.

The appeal of E‑Type transcended the automotive world. Such is the inherent rightness of its proportions, stance and purity of line, that it is a permanent exhibit in New York's Museum of Modern Art.

Its influence is still apparent in Jaguar's modern range ‑ products that offer a peerless blend of performance, comfort, cutting‑edge technology and award‑winning design.

"It is impossible to overstate the impact the E‑Type had," said Ian Callum, Jaguar Design Director. "Here was a car that encapsulated the spirit of the revolutionary era it came to symbolise. We're looking forward to celebrating achievement and looking forward with our all‑new sports cars in Geneva."

Ends

Note to editors:

The full Jaguar PR team will be present at the Geneva Show with one new addition.

Angus Fitton has been appointed Jaguar UK PR Manager effective 1st March. Reporting to Frank Klaas, Global Head of Communications for Jaguar Land Rover and Ken McConomy, PR Director, Angus will be working with Press Officer Faye Goldstraw to manage communications for Jaguar Cars in the UK.

Angus joins Jaguar from Volkswagen where he held the position of Product Affairs Manager. Prior to this Angus worked at CAR Magazine and BBC TopGear Magazine.

To contact the Jaguar UK PR team, please ring or e‑mail:

Faye Goldstraw, Senior Press Officer, Jaguar UK PR
T: 01926 648765 / M: 07860 872224

Email: fgoldst1@jaguar.com

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