Jaguar->ke39 is preparing to expand its "R" performance lineup with the addition of a new XJR high-performance sedan that made its global debut at the 2013 New York International Automobile Show. The new XJR will go on sale later this summer.

When compared to the standard XJ, the new R version adds a more aggressive exterior look, with a new new front bumper, aerodynamic side skirts and a trunk-mounted spoiler. For the interior Jaguar will add numerous R elements, like sports seats, R badges and specially designed jet leather.

Other updates include an updated suspension, an electronic rear differential and a recalibrated Dynamic Stability Control system. All these updates were required in order to provide the best driving dynamics on both road and track-focused driving.

Updated 03/26/2013: This review has been updated with the official details, images and specs.

Hit the jump to learn more about the 2014 Jaguar XJR.

2014 Jaguar XJR

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2014 Jaguar XJR
  • Engine/Motor: V8
  • Horsepower: 550 @ 6500
  • Torque: 502 @ 2500
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

On the exterior, the new XJR will be distinguished by the usual "R" elements Jaguar used us with: 'R' spec side sills, a trunk-lid-mounted lip spoiler, special 'R' hood louvers.

Customers can choose between 10 exterior colors: Polaris White, Ebony, Ultimate Black, Stratus Grey, Lunar Grey, Rhodium Silver, Cashmere, Caviar, Carnelian Red and Black Amethyst.

Interior

For the interior, Jaguar is offering a jet leather trim with the choice of Ivory, London Tan or Red Zone inserts on the seat facings. The seats will be offered in either Red or London Tan and will feature an embossed “R” logo.

As standard features, the new XJR will be offered with a 380-watt, 12-speaker surround-sound system from British audio experts Meridian, but as an option, customers can also choose a 825-watt, 18-speaker system featuring Meridian's proprietary Trifield System.

For the interior trim, customers can choose between an optional semi-aniline leather and veneers in either Carbon Fiber or Piano Black.

Drivetrain

Under the hood, Jaguar has placed a 5.0-liter V-8 engine that delivers a total of 550 horsepower and 502 pound-feet of torque. The engine will be mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and feature a standard Intelligent Stop/Start system. This automatically shuts down the engine when the car comes to a halt and the brake pedal is fully depressed, helping to reduce fuel consumption.

The XJR will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and can hit an electronically limited top speed of 174mph.

Engine

5.0-litre V8 supercharged petrol

Capacity (cc)

5,000

Bore/Stroke (mm)

92.5/93

Peak Power (PS@rpm)

550@6500

Peak Power (kW@rpm)

405@6500

Peak Torque (lb/ft @rpm)

502@2500-5500

Peak Torque (Nm@rpm)

680@2500-5500

Transmission

Eight-speed automatic

Intelligent Stop/Start

Yes

0-60 mph (secs)

4.4

0-100 km/h (secs)

4.6

Top Speed (mph; km/h)

174; 280 (electronically limited)

Combined Economy (EU mpg; l/100km ; US mpg)

24.4;11.6 ; 18

CO2 Emissions (g/km)

270


Suspension and brakes

The XJR will sit on 20-inch lightweight forged alloy 'Farallon' wheels wrapped in specially developed Pirelli tires

Jaguar has also installed specially tuned suspension that has been tested in four of the most challenging places: Nurburgring, the high-speed Rockingham circuit in England, the roads around the Gaydon Research and Development center and in north Wales.

The XJR is also equipped with Adaptive Dynamics, active electronic differential and Dynamic Stability Control systems.

Prices

Prices for the new Jaguar XJR will be announced at a later date.

Competitors

Not many of the usual competitors for the standard Jaguar XJ offer a high-performance version, still, this doesn't mean the XJR will be an unique model in its segment.

[

Mercedes S63 AMG->ar131181]

Just like with the rest of the lineup, the AMG version of the S-Class is also preparing to enter a new generation. Rumors suggest the new S63 AMG will be offered with an AMG twin turbo 5.5-liter V-8 engine that will deliver between 536 and 550 horsepower. The model is expected to arrive this year, with an improved exterior and interior look, and new technologies.

BMW Alpina B7

Until BMW finally decides to offer an M version for its 7-Series luxury sedan, customers can opt for models like BMW Alpina B7. The B7 is powered by a V-8 engine that delivers a total of 540 horsepower and 538 pound-feet of torque. The model goes from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds and up to a top speed of 194 mph.

Conclusion

The new XJR seems to be the perfect addition to Jaguar's lineup. It delivers incredible performance figures and in the same time offers its customers the luxury required by a high-performance sedan.