When Jaguar unveiled its XKR-S, the brand claimed the performance coupe was the fastest production car the company had ever introduced (excluding the ultra-rare XJ220 supercar). Now, the Jaguar ETO performance division, a little-known skunk works team, has raised the ante considerably with the new XKR-S GT.
The most track focused variant available in the XK Coupe model range, the new XKR-S GT will be powered by the tried and true 5.0 liter supercharged V8 engine producing 550 hp and 502 lb.-ft. of torque. The same engine also powers the latest XJR luxury sports sedan.
While the new XKR-S GT may not offer more power, the car will feature aero bits that provide the car with 320 pounds more down force thanks to a carbon fiber front splitter, dive planes, extended wheel arch spats, rear wing, rear diffuser, and aluminum undertray.
Further enhancing the XKR-S GT's road holding abilities are a wider 255/35 front and 305/30 rear track of extra grippy Pirelli Corsa tires wrapped around a set of 20-inch wheels. Height-adjustable dampers with two springs allow drivers to dial in stronger spring rates of up to 68 percent at the front and 25 percent in the rear.
The XKR-S GT's racing theme continues inside as Jaguar features hip hugging bucket seats, slick Alcantara trim, and a purposeful driver oriented dash.
Expect the Jaguar XKR-S GT to hit the market by August 2013 at prices starting $174,000.
Check out the new 2014 Jaguar XKR-S GT at the 2013 New York International Auto Show in the gallery below.
