JAGUAR XKR-S (2009)

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JAGUAR XKR-S

By Drew Johnson

Yet another unveiling at Geneva was the Jaguar XKR-S, which, at 174mph, is the fastest Jaguar since the XJ220 supercar of the ’90s. The limited-edition version of the supercharged XKR is also the fastest XK ever, thanks to its recalibrated engine management system that ups the top speed from 155mph.

Only 200 cars will be built in both left- and right-hand drive, for sale exclusively in Europe and covered in Ultimate Black.

The same 4.2 liter V8 and six-speed automatic transmission as in the XKR are used, with no bump in power, so Jaguar’s 0-60mph acceleration remains the same at 4.9 seconds.

Instead, the XKR-S has different springs and shocks that lower the ride height my 0.4 inches, thicker anti-roll bars, a quicker steering rack and a slipperier exterior. The manufacturers’ Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS) is also recalibrated. The faster coupe prances on lightweight 20-inch wheels hiding Alcon R brakes which are optional on the XKR.

The exterior is differentiated thanks to a unique front spoiler, rear fascia and spoiler and side skirts, as well as a small XKR-S badge.

Inside, the S gets a full leather interior, a 525 Watt B&W sound system and various XKR-S badged trim pieces.

JAGUAR XKR (2010)

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JAGUAR XKR

A good number of the updated Jaguar XKR's supplied action shots show the coupe sideways with a cloud of smoke in pursuit. While this alludes to variety of improvements for the 2010 model year, the most noteworthy must be the new engine -- a 5.0L V-8 with a Roots-type supercharger.

Also on the new XFR, the V-8, with 510 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque, eclipses the previous-gen 4.2L by 90 hp. Jaguar increases its performance claims as a result, dropping the 0-to-60-mph acceleration to 4.6 sec from 4.9 sec. A loss of one mpg in highway fuel economy is the only downside to the newfound power; the 2010 XKR returns 15/22 city/highway mpg.

Above the new engine are two louvers, opposed to the center bulge in the hood. Jaguar revises the rest of the bodywork to reflect the "R" designation a bit more thoroughly as well. The 2010 model receives a new front bumper, featuring adjusted air inlets and chrome trimmings, while the truck gains a subtle spoiler and LED taillights. Jaguar sprinkles more LED lighting around the rest of the exterior, from the side markings to the twin reverse lamps to the foglamps. Where the vehicle connects to the ground, 19-in., 10-spoke wheels are standard while 20-in. wheels remain an option.

Jaguar updates the interior as well, matching it to the quality and style found in the XF. Standard on the XK are heated, 10-way-adjustable front seats, and a touch-screen control center. The center contains audio, navigation, Bluetooth, and climate systems. An optional R Performance interior package offers 16-way-adjustable seats with side bolsters and cooling capability.

The "JaguarDrive Selector" -- the much-ballyhooed silver shift dial that rises out of the center console in the XF -- makes an appearance for the first time in the 2010 XK lineup. Along with the new shifter come an electronically controlled suspension and differential systems. The former analyzes pitch and roll rates and compensates for them with dampening adjustments, as much as 100 times a second. The latter promises to offer the bonuses of a locking mechanical differential (burnouts, power-on oversteer) without the abruptness, allowing smoother progression across the traction threshold. Unlike a majority of electronic differentials, the one employed by Jaguar does not hamper acts of hooliganism with brake application.

These systems, in conjunction with the DSC, create JaguarDrive Optimization which replaces the Computer Active Technology Suspension found in current-gen cars. The new meta-system offers more vehicle dynamics control options, with settings ranging from normal to sports to winter to the fun everything-off mode.

Other technological features on the new XKR include bi-Xenon headlights with headlamp leveling, sensors to optimize cabin air quality, keyless start, park assist, and optional active cruise control. The XK lineup also offers front, side, and thorax airbags with an active restraint system that monitors seat application to determine the proper amount of airbag deployment in the event of a crash.

The XKR retains its lightweight yet rigid all-aluminum monocoque chassis and comes in coupe or convertible form. And lest we forget, that optional convertible top will open or shut in 18 seconds. So this summer, when the 2010 XKR hits the market, look forward to a nice bit of fresh air in the cabin during all your sideways shenanigans.

JAGUAR XF (2009)

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JAGUAR XF

Considering the XF was only launched in the first half of 2008, it seems a bit premature for Jaguar to embark on costly revisions to its BMW 5-Series-rival. Nonetheless, less than 12 months on, the XF has been upgraded.

Not that you'd notice from the outside: only a pair of new door mirrors gives the game away.

Under the skin it's a different story. Both the old, normally aspirated and supercharged 4.2 V8 and 2.7-litre V6 diesels have been replaced by supercharged and naturally aspirated 5.0-litre petrol engines petrols and a new 3.0-litre V6 diesel.

Available with either 237bhp or a more muscular 271bhp, the new 3.0 engines are a development on the outgoing 2.7. Crucially, not only are the new engines more powerful (up from 204bhp), they're significantly more fuel-efficient, averaging a fine 42mpg and emitting a low 179g/km of CO2.

In the past, opting for a diesel XF meant sacrificing pace, but since the more powerful 3.0D S sprints to 62mph in just 6.4 seconds and onto 155mph it's no longer the case. This engine is our pick of the range.

It's easy to be impressed by the XF. The inside feels a very special place to be thanks to the double-stitched leather, aluminium, wood and high-quality plastics that adorn the cabin.

As a result Jaguar owners are a satisfied bunch, ranking the brand fifth ahead of Mercedes (6th), Audi (7th) and BMW (10th) in the most recent JD Power survey. This is a huge testament to the brand's hard work in improving after-sales service.

Reliability is another much-improved area, although some owners have reported glitches with the power steering and electric windows, which could affect the brand's performance in next year's survey.