In previous heydays for the Jaguar brand, a major slogan for its luxury saloons was Grace, Space and Pace. Although not in use these days, this ranks as one of the most truthful descriptions that the marketing teams of all brands has ever come up with and is still fully fitting when you inspect and drive the XJ-R. Lots of the high-cost technical development has been injected into the XF and XJ DNA to provide this unique package. Using the same supercharged V8 powertrain as the F-Type and XFR-S with 405 kW at your disposal driving through an eight-speed automatic transmission, this long wheelbase XJR limousine has everything you could want – and in supersized portions.
Apt then, to have the launch in “everything is bigger and better than yours” United States of America. Seattle, to be precise, with its winding roads, forests and lakes; we were even treated to a few laps of the tight Ridge Racing Circuit. You would think that the long-wheelbase XJ would be a handful on a tight and technical circuit but an electronic active differential and stability control, 20-inch alloy wheels with Pirelli P Zero tyres plus extensive use of aluminium to keep the mass down all contribute to surprisingly agile ability to circulate the track with proficiency. Direction changes after hard braking into the corners was nearly as acute as witnessed on the XFR-S, while steering feel is excellent, having been adapted from the F-Type system. All other setups have similarly had inputs from the F-Type programme that is already winning accolades around the world.
Ten exterior colours are offered and the interior is suitably sumptuous with a choice of three colours to the Jet leather trim. A sport-pack grille with black mesh adds a mean touch to support the 405 kW of power and 680 N.m of torque. Suede headlining finishes off the upholstery and a 12-speaker, 380 W Meridian audio system is standard. Unique, wrap-around interior wood trim can be specified in a choice of finishes to suit your taste. Another flagship from Jaguar, the XJR will be available in South Africa from October 2013.
Specifications:
Model: Jaguar XJR
Engine: 5,0-litre V8, supercharged
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Power: 405 kW at 6 500 r/min
Torque: 680 N.m at 2 500 to 5 500 r/min
0-100 km/h: 4,6 seconds
Top speed: 280 km/h
CO2: 270 g/km
Price: approx. R2,3m