The Jaguar XJR has been officially unveiled ahead of its public debut at tomorrow's 2013 New York motor show.
The introduction of the new-generation Jaguar XJR sees the high-performance nameplate – first launched in 1994 – return to the XJ line-up after a four-year hiatus.
Described by Jaguar ETO division director Pete Simkin as "the most accomplished 'R' car yet", the Jaguar XJR combines the highest levels of luxury and performance currently offered by the British brand.
Powered by the 404kW/680Nm 5.0-litre supercharged V8 from the track-focused XFR-S and XKR-S models, the Jaguar XFR sprints from 0-100km/h in 4.6 seconds, and is billed as the most responsive, agile and focused XJ ever produced.
The standard ZF eight-speed automatic transmission has been upgraded for the performance saloon based on know-how gained from the development of the XFR-S, making it more intuitive of the driver's enthusiasm and delivering more aggressive changes when deemed appropriate.
Developed around Germany's Nurburgring, England's Rockingham and the roads around the Gaydon research and development centre in Wales, the Jaguar XJR features unique front and rear suspension tunes, specially developed lightweight 20-inch alloy wheels and Pirelli tyres, the upgraded steering system from the F-Type, and a new 'Trac DSC' setting for the stability control system, allowing drivers to fully explore the car's handling capabilities.
The enhanced brake package employs 380mm internally ventilated discs at the front and 376mm stoppers at the rear.
The XJR's visual enhancements are subtle but purposeful, headlined by a new grille and lower front splitter, bonnet louvres, rear lip spoiler, quad exhaust outlets, and XJR badging.
'R' logos also find their way into the cabin where they adorn the leather upholstery, which is available in three colours. An 18-speaker, 825-watt Meridian audio system will be fitted as standard in vehicles delivered to Australia.
The Jaguar XJR will launch globally around the end of August, with the first customer deliveries set to take place in September.
Jaguar has confirmed the XJR will be reintroduced to Australia as the flagship model in the local range, but is yet to finalise timing or pricing at this stage. The current range-topper, the XJ Supersport, is priced from $320,000.
Click the Photos tab for more images.?
