XKR – the ultimate Grand Tourer

XKR – the ultimate Grand Tourer

The arrival of the supercharged XKR in New Zealand takes the Jaguar sports car experience to new heights building on the excellence of the all-new XK that debuted last year.

Like the XK model, the new supercharged XKR makes intelligent use of practical, modern technology such as an industry-leading aluminium monocoque structure that results in a light and yet very stiff body.

An uprated 306 kWs supercharged V8 engine and class-leading calibration of a state-of-the-art, six-speed automatic transmission deliver accessible, real-world, high performance that makes the XKR the most impressive sporting GT all-rounder in its class.

The XKR’s powerful statement of intent is emphatically reinforced by sporting styling cues such as an enhanced front bumper, bonnet louvres, aluminium-finish grilles and side power vents. 20-inch alloy wheel design and a quad-exhaust system add to the overall presence.

“The new supercharged XKR captures perfectly the essence of what makes a Jaguar XK so special,” said Wallis Dumper, the Managing Director of Motorcorp Distributors, the New Zealand importer of Jaguar cars. “It is a perfect balance of refined Grand Tourer and serious performance sports car, which delivers a truly rewarding and exhilarating driving experience.”

The new supercharged Jaguar XKR sports car is available as a Coupe now and as a Convertible from Spring 2007, with all the attractions and attributes of the XK – but amplified in the ‘R’ to complement the extra power and performance.

The 4.2-litre, supercharged V8 engine develops 306 kWs and 560Nm of torque, providing performance of 0-100km/hr in 5.2 seconds, and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

The uprated braking system – compared to the standard XK – includes ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution and emergency brake assist.

The all-aluminium body construction delivers a lighter, stiffer car, with excellent agility. At 1665kg, the Coupe is 70kg lighter than its predecessor, while the 1715kg Convertible is 100kg lighter than the previous convertible XKR.

The XKR coupe is available now at an RRP of $234,990 and the convertible will be launched at $254,990 in time for next summer.

Uprated springs and dampers and recalibrated Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS) provide enhanced ride and handling. Trac dynamic stability control is part of the total chassis package.

A class-leading six-speed automatic transmission with ultra-quick manual gear shifts in milliseconds using steering-wheel-mounted ‘paddles’.

The Active Exhaust System ensures refinement at cruising speed but purposeful V8 roar under hard acceleration.

Subtle XKR exterior styling enhancements include a sportier grille and front bumper design, louvred bonnet, aluminium-finish side power vents and 20 inch alloy wheels.

There are rain-sensing wipers, parking aids and the automatic bi-xenon headlights on have washers and automatic levelling. The door mirrors are heated and have electric adjustment.

The enhanced interior includes unique aluminium ‘weave’ design on the fascia (other veneers such as polished burr walnut are available at no extra cost) and XKR sports seats with 3 settings for the memory – electric adjustment is standard of course.

Cruise control, automatic dual zone climate control air conditioning, electric windows, trip computer, 6 stack CD sound system with WMA and MP3 disc compatibility are also standard.

To protect an XKR owner’s investment the remote control central locking includes deadlocks and drive away locking. There is an intrusion and perimetric alarm with a microwave intrusion sensor and engine immobiliser and locking wheel nuts.

There are six airbags, front seat whiplash protection system and the front of the car employs Jaguar’s award winning pedestrian contact sensing to deploy the bonnet to lessen injuries.

A blend of supercharged performance, outstanding dynamic abilities and keen pricing gives the new XKR significant advantages overall against both lesser – and considerably more – expensive rivals.

The XKR is the epitome of a contemporary Jaguar Grand Touring sports car and a perfect illustration of the marque’s philosophy of building beautiful, fast cars.

ENDS

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