Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Can a Jaguar XKR-S be drifted while blindfolded?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/can-a-jaguar-xkr-s-be-drifted-while-blindfolded/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/can-a-jaguar-xkr-s-be-drifted-while-blindfolded/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/can-a-jaguar-xkr-s-be-drifted-while-blindfolded/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Bring together a 550-horsepower Jaguar XKR-S and a rain-soaked skidpad, and it's almost impossible to not end up in a sideways drift... accidental or on purpose. With that in mind, the gang over at Autocar got a hold of the monstrous XKR-S for the latest installment of "Will it Drift?," only they raised the stakes a little by attempting the feat with a blindfolded driver

We've driven the XKR-S a number of times here at Autoblog (including a First Drive, Review and Quick Spin), so we weren't at all surprised to learn that blind drifting in the car is possible. But what is remarkable is the ease at which it happened. This, of course, can be credited as much to the car as to the driver, Steve Sutcliffe. Check out the impressive video for yourself, which is posted after the jump.

Continue reading Can a Jaguar XKR-S be drifted while blindfolded?

Can a Jaguar XKR-S be drifted while blindfolded? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Dec 2012 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 jaguar xkr-sautocardriftingdrifting videojaguarvideovideosxkr-sThu, 27 Dec 2012 18:40:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20412209/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/27/can-a-jaguar-xkr-s-be-drifted-while-blindfolded/20412209/article-detail.xml 20412209 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/jag-xkrs-drifting_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/jag-xkrs-drifting.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Jaguar XKR-S Convertible]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/07/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-quick-spin-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/07/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-quick-spin-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/07/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-quick-spin-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Editor's Note: This is our new Quick Spin format, now shorter, less formal and more personal than our regular reviews. We've reinvented the format so we can talk about even more of the new vehicles we drive. Enjoy!



Not long after executive editor Chris Paukert drove the Jaguar XKR-S Coupe, I found myself holding the keys to the gorgeous British Racing Green XKR-S Convertible you see here. Mechanically, it's exactly the same as the coupe, save an additional 111 pounds of weight and a slightly less-usable boot. And from behind the wheel, the Convertible's on-road manners don't differ too much from its hardtop kin.

Thanks to a revised chassis setup versus the standard XK convertible, the XKR-S isn't plagued with cowl shake or general wobbliness, though there's a still a bit of safe, predictable understeer dialed in to the suspension geometry. Around back, the big cat will happily swing its butt out around a turn when provoked, even with the traction control nannies in full effect. The XKR-S Convertible takes to the road more like a muscle car than a proper sportster, ditching scalpel-like precise handling for pure stabbing force.

The most impressive part of the XKR-S formula is the menacing growl that shoots out of what we can only assume are the polished quad exhaust tips of Satan's own vocal cords.

But the XKR-S Convertible's pièce de résistance is best seen - or rather, heard - when you drop the top. Nevermind the brute force of the 550-horsepower supercharged V8 underhood, able to slap the 4,079-pound Jaguar to 60 miles per hour in just 4.2 seconds, the most impressive part of the XKR-S formula is the menacing growl that shoots out of what we can only assume are the polished quad exhaust tips of Satan's own vocal cords. During my week with the car, I couldn't resist purposely mashing the throttle as I drove out onto Woodward Avenue in downtown Detroit, simply so I could hear that heart-fluttering roar bounce off the tall concrete buildings, slamming pedestrians with eight-cylinder aural delight whether they liked it or not.

Thing is, though, you get this same sort of experience in the coupe. And while the hardtop XKR-S doesn't come with the wind-in-your-hair experience, it does everything the droptop can do for a full $6,000 less. The same well-appointed, beautifully trimmed interior is there, complete with two excellent sport chairs up front, completely useless rear buckets that are better suited for packages than people, and the same infuriatingly slow infotainment/navigation system we've grown to, well, deal with. In any case, the XKR-S package is very sweet, but unless you're hellbent on the full open-air experience, just stick with the coupe.

2012 Jaguar XKR-S Convertible originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Sep 2012 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 jaguar xkr-s convertiblejaguarquick spinquickspinxkxkrxkr-sxkr-s convertibleFri, 07 Sep 2012 14:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20313379/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/07/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-quick-spin-review/20313379/article-detail.xml 20313379 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/01-2012-jaguar-xkr-s-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/01-2012-jaguar-xkr-s-review.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Motor Trend</i> returns with The World's Greatest Drag Race]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/24/motor-trend-worlds-greatest-drag-race-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/24/motor-trend-worlds-greatest-drag-race-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/24/motor-trend-worlds-greatest-drag-race-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Our old pal Jonny Lieberman gets to have all the fun. The former Autoblog editor now gets to play with multiple supercars at a time for his post at Motor Trend. As part of MT's Best Driver's Car award process, Lieberman and the rest of the magazine's team quarter-mile all of the year's contenders in what they call "The World's Greatest Drag Race." Based on the contenders, we're inclined to agree with their bluster.

While last year's race saw the Nissan GT-R edge out the Ferrari 458 Italia, this year features a few new contenders, including the Lamborghini Aventador and McLaren MP4-12C. Other contestants include the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series, Chevy Camaro ZL1, Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, Subaru BRZ, Jaguar XKR-S and Porsche 911 Carrera S, which - spoiler alert - actually won the Best Driver's Car award this year. Oh, and the updated version of Nissan's GT-R makes a repeat appearance, but no Ferraris are in the field this year.

A special thanks should go out to the Subaru BRZ. It was so far behind the competition that it provided many of the wide-angle shots that captured the whole rest of the field. The straight line is not the forte of a 200-horsepower drift-o-matic, but a fourth place finish in this year's Best Driver's Car competition is a mighty feat for this seemingly outmatched sports car.

The biggest competition in this drag race will be from the new Aventador and the MP4-12C. Do they have enough to take on a new Godzilla? You're just going to have to scroll down to find out. And make sure to stick around for the closing credits to hear each one of these contenders rev their engine in a sweet mechanical symphony.

Continue reading Motor Trend returns with The World's Greatest Drag Race

Motor Trend returns with The World's Greatest Drag Race originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Aug 2012 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911aventadorbest drivers carbrzc63 amgc63 amg black seriescamarocamaro zl1chevroletdrag racefordgt-rgtrjaguarlamborghinimclarenmercedes-benzmotor trendmp4-12cnissanporscheshelby gt500subaruvideoworlds greatest drag racexkr-sFri, 24 Aug 2012 12:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20308423/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/24/motor-trend-worlds-greatest-drag-race-2012/20308423/article-detail.xml 20308423 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/mt-drag-race-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/mt-drag-race-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Jaguar XK gets new Touring trim, Dynamic Pack]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/16/2013-jaguar-xk-gets-new-touring-trim-dynamic-pack/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/16/2013-jaguar-xk-gets-new-touring-trim-dynamic-pack/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/16/2013-jaguar-xk-gets-new-touring-trim-dynamic-pack/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The naturally-aspirated V8 that only gets a single application in the combined 2013 Jaguar XF and XJ lines soldiers on in the 2013 XK (a 2012 model is pictured, but there are no syling changes), with four of the eight XKs available from next year fitted with the 385-horsepower engine. Yes, that's eight XKs, instead of the six that are currently available - a Touring Coupe and Convertible join the family at lower the price point.

Single-spec models, the only options for the Touring models will be the outside and inside colors. Otherwise, they'll come with an Aero Package and 19-inch wheels outside, Satin Rosewood veneer, heated front seats and the Jaguar audio system inside, and a Morzine cloth headliner in the coupe instead of the Jaguar Suedecloth on the upper trims. At $79,000, the Touring Coupe takes $5,500 off the entry price to the XK family. The Touring Convertible goes for $85,000, just $500 more than the 385-hp XK Coupe.

To give the new models some space, the 2013 XK Coupe will come standard on 20-inch wheels instead of the 19-inchers of yore. Whereas Meridian supplies the top-level audio in the sedans, the sports cars stick with 525-watt Bowers & Wilkins audio. Customers can go further with the order book for free, with the Special Order options offered at no charge. A Portfolio Package tweaks things further with chrome mirror caps and grille, plus a suite of recommended colors for the exterior; inside, it gets either a Navy or Truffle theme, a leather headliner like the XKR-S, leather-trimmed floor mats and stainless steel pedals and sill plates.

The XKR Convertible gets the option of the Dynamic Pack previously exclusive to the XKR Coupe, with its Adaptive Dynamics and sportier suspension, aero add-ons and a bump in top speed on the track to 174 miles per hour.

The limited-to-100 XKR-S, introduced only a year ago, remains the same. So, for that matter, do the list prices for the XK range, the 2013 models not shifting a penny from the $84,500 XK Coupe to the $138,000 XKR-S Convertible. You'll find the rest of the details in the press release below.

Continue reading 2013 Jaguar XK gets new Touring trim, Dynamic Pack

2013 Jaguar XK gets new Touring trim, Dynamic Pack originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Aug 2012 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 jaguar xkjaguarxkxkrxkr-sThu, 16 Aug 2012 18:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20300897/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/16/2013-jaguar-xk-gets-new-touring-trim-dynamic-pack/20300897/article-detail.xml 20300897 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/jaguarxk_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/jaguarxk.jpg <![CDATA[Mystery Jaguar XKR-S track pack caught testing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/18/mystery-jaguar-xkr-s-track-pack-caught-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/18/mystery-jaguar-xkr-s-track-pack-caught-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/18/mystery-jaguar-xkr-s-track-pack-caught-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jaguar XKR-S Track Edition - spy shots - blue

Jaguar looks to be hard at work on a new Track Edition of the company's already menacing XKR-S. Spy photographers spotted a more hardcore Track Edition testing at the Nürburgring recently, and while details are scarce, odds are the high horsepower coupe will serve as a suitable competitor to the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series, among others. The car we see here clearly wears a more aggressive front fascia with a deep front splitter and new canards as well as a massive, track inspired rear wing. The hood also wears substantially larger air outlets, which could hint to more power on hand. The current XKR-S, which we recently reviewed, dishes out 550 ponies.

Indoors, the rear seats have been scrapped in favor of a roll bar, and our shooters say the meaner Jaguar corners like it's riding on significantly stiffer springs. Looks like fun.

Mystery Jaguar XKR-S track pack caught testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Jun 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jaguarjaguar xkjaguar xkr-sjaguar xkr-s track editionnurburgringspy shotstrack editionxkxkrxkr-sxkr-s trackMon, 18 Jun 2012 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20260626/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/18/mystery-jaguar-xkr-s-track-pack-caught-testing/20260626/article-detail.xml 20260626 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/01-jaguar-xkr-s-spy-shots-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/01-jaguar-xkr-s-spy-shots-628.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Jaguar XKR-S]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/07/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/07/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/07/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Cat Scratch Fever

2012 Jaguar XKR-S front 3/4 view

Keeping a vehicle fresh and relevant over a long model cycle is one of any automaker's toughest tasks. There are basically two schools of thought on how to do it: a steady parade of trim-and-tape special editions (Lexus SC 430 Pebble Beach Edition, anyone?) or the more capital-intensive high-performance route. To riff on Neil Young, "Is it better to do a burnout, or fade away?" Jaguar appears to have the answer in the form of two black stripes on the pavement: the 2012 XKR-S.

The current XK has been around since late 2005, and while its classic grand tourer proportions still look remarkably fresh, it's hardly a spring chicken. Jaguar could have settled on a few special paint finishes, a new wheel pattern and maybe some showy leather stitching to see this coupe into its dotage, but instead, it's lavished a surprising amount of attention on this rakish two door.

Continue reading 2012 Jaguar XKR-S

2012 Jaguar XKR-S originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Jun 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 jaguar xkr-sfeaturedjaguarjaguar xkreviewreviewsxkxkrxkr-sxkr-s reviewThu, 07 Jun 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20253171/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/07/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-review/20253171/article-detail.xml 20253171 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/jaguar-xkr-s-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/jaguar-xkr-s-review.jpg <![CDATA[Jaguar considering track-focused XKR-S]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/jaguar-considering-track-focused-xkr-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/jaguar-considering-track-focused-xkr-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/jaguar-considering-track-focused-xkr-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Items like the thick, cross-stiched leather, touchscreen navigation and a Bowers & Wilkins stereo hide just how wild the Jaguar XKR-S is. Without them you'd be overcome by the scent of a feral carnivore with blood on its breath, which is what the hottest coupe in Jaguar's portfolio really is. Yet Jaguar is thinking about removing the XKR-S' urbane coverings and producing a street-legal track version that would drop weight and lap times, according to a report in Car and Driver.

Jaguar isn't yet saying if such a model would add to the established production run of 300, or be included in that original allotment. It's speculated that track-day equipment like a fire-suppression system and different gauges could appear, but an included roll-cage is a bigger question mark.

As Jaguar figures out where it needs to apply its resources to hone its brand perception and up its sales, perhaps a top-end customer racer to challenge the best from Porsche and Aston and Audi is just what it needs.

Jaguar considering track-focused XKR-S originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 jaguar xkr-sjaguarxkrxkr-sWed, 15 Feb 2012 12:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20172195/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/15/jaguar-considering-track-focused-xkr-s/20172195/article-detail.xml 20172195 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/xkr-strackversion_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/xkr-strackversion.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Playboy</i> picks its 2012 Cars of the Year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/playboy-picks-its-2012-cars-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/playboy-picks-its-2012-cars-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/playboy-picks-its-2012-cars-of-the-year/#commentsFiled under: ,



Playboy has been around since 1953 for a reason: It's an arbiter of good taste in the arena of male interests. Sure, that includes naked ladies, but it also encompasses fashion, movies, music and any other consumable that tugs at the heart strings of a man's billfold. The fashionable male of the modern era also consumes cars, and so Playboy has an opinion about which ones are worthy of their hard-earned dollars. Each year the magazine's resident four-wheel expert, Ken Gross, and its editors pick their cars of the year, and this year's list is out in the January/February issue hitting newsstands now.

We'll spoil the surprise between the pages and tell you that the magazine's overall 2012 Car of the Year is the Jaguar XKR-S. A solid pick to be sure, and an impressive win for Jag considering its company on Playboy's short list.

The Lamborghini Aventador and Bentley Continental GTC occupy the six-figure side of the list's price spectrum, while solid luxury sedans choices like the Audi A7 and Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG offer room for some family and friends. If a sports car is what you're after, Playboy recommends the BMW 1 Series M and Ford Mustang Boss 302, while the budget-conscious among its readership should look at the Fiat 500 and Hyundai Veloster. While the list contains no serious off-roader, one could venture off your tree-lined driveway with the magazine's choice of the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque, and last but not least is the Lexus CT 200h for those looking for luxury, performance, practicality and fuel efficiency in one gloriously compromised package.

You can check out the full list for yourself over at Playboy.com (yes, the page - but not the whole site - is Safe For Work), as well as vote for which vehicle you think should be Heff's Car of the Year.

Playboy picks its 2012 Cars of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 cars of the year2012 jaguar xkr-scars of the yearhugh heffnerjaguarken grossplayboyxkr-sThu, 22 Dec 2011 15:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20133785/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/22/playboy-picks-its-2012-cars-of-the-year/20133785/article-detail.xml 20133785 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/playboy-cars-of-the-year-2012_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/playboy-cars-of-the-year-2012.jpg <![CDATA[<i>EVO</i> pits 2012 Jaguar XKR-S vs. XJ220 at the 'Ring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/07/evo-pits-2012-jaguar-xkr-s-vs-xj220-at-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/07/evo-pits-2012-jaguar-xkr-s-vs-xj220-at-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/07/evo-pits-2012-jaguar-xkr-s-vs-xj220-at-the-ring/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jaguar XKR-S vs XJ220

You may conjure up visions of luxury sedans and boulevard cruisers when you think of Jaguar, but the Leaping Cat marque has also made some wickedly fast sports cars over the years.

Foremost among them is surely the XJ220, the all-out, world-conquering supercar Coventry produced in the early '90s. A Jaguar XJ220 set the Nürburgring lap record in 1992 when John Nielsen recorded a 7:46 lap - a record that held until it was finally unseated at the turn of the millennium.

The question is, could Jaguar's latest production model match the aging Super Cat for pace around the Norschleife? To find out, Evo's Chris Harris took the new XKR-S down to Eifel and brought along the XJ220... piloted by the same John Nielsen, no less. Follow the jump to see how it went down.

Continue reading EVO pits 2012 Jaguar XKR-S vs. XJ220 at the 'Ring

EVO pits 2012 Jaguar XKR-S vs. XJ220 at the 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris harrisevojaguar xj220jaguar xkr-sjohn nielsennürburgringnurburgringvideoxj220xk-rsxkr-sxkrsWed, 07 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20122699/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/07/evo-pits-2012-jaguar-xkr-s-vs-xj220-at-the-ring/20122699/article-detail.xml 20122699 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/evo-xj220-xkrs-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/evo-xj220-xkrs-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Jaguar's jungle looks awfully inviting in new ad]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/jaguars-jungle-looks-awfully-inviting-in-new-ad/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/jaguars-jungle-looks-awfully-inviting-in-new-ad/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/jaguars-jungle-looks-awfully-inviting-in-new-ad/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



There are plenty of attributes we associate with Jaguar. Luxurious, powerful and attractive all spring readily to mind, but we're not sure we'd tie the world "playful" to the brand. Jaguar seems to think otherwise, and has released a new ad showing three of its most sultry models frolicking about in jungles both natural and urban. The spot ends with the tagline "Welcome To Our Jungle," though Axl Rose and Slash are conspicuously absent.

The XJL Supersport, XFR and XKR-S all share some time on screen set to a little Spanish guitar and the bark of delicious supercharged 5.0-liter V8 exhaust notes. The agency behind the spot, Spark44, says that the goal was to show the vehicles as animate, fun objects.

We can certainly attest to these vehicles' ability to paint a smile on your face. The ad does still seem plenty conservative, however. While there's a bit of sideways action here and there, the vehicles mostly seem constrained to speed limits and turn taking. We want to see some sibling rivalry. Hit the jump to check out the full clip for yourself.

Continue reading Jaguar's jungle looks awfully inviting in new ad

Jaguar's jungle looks awfully inviting in new ad originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jaguarjaguar adjaguar at playjaguar videowelcome to our junglexfxfrxjxjlxkxkrxkr-sThu, 01 Dec 2011 10:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20118498/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/01/jaguars-jungle-looks-awfully-inviting-in-new-ad/20118498/article-detail.xml 20118498 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/jaguar-at-play_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/jaguar-at-play.jpg <![CDATA[Jaguar plays up XKR-S Nürburgring run]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/jaguar-plays-up-xkr-s-nurburgring-run/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/jaguar-plays-up-xkr-s-nurburgring-run/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/jaguar-plays-up-xkr-s-nurburgring-run/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The droptop version of the Jaguar XKR-S - the one introduced to the U.S. at the LA Auto Show that's already sold out - has been thrown around the Nürburgring by test driver Sascha Bert, and the recipe contains all the basic ingredients: a lot of music and suspension travel, a little bit of roaring and opposite lock. You knew this was coming, but that doesn't make it any less fun to watch when it happens, right?

Four minutes and 26 seconds of your day will disappear right after the jump...

Continue reading Jaguar plays up XKR-S Nürburgring run

Jaguar plays up XKR-S Nürburgring run originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 jaguar xkr-s convertiblejaguarjaguar xkr-sjaguar xkr-s convertiblenürburgringnurburgringsascha bertvideoxkxk-rxk-rsxkrxkr-sxkr-s convertiblexkrsMon, 21 Nov 2011 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20110983/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/21/jaguar-plays-up-xkr-s-nurburgring-run/20110983/article-detail.xml 20110983 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/xkr-snurburgring_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/xkr-snurburgring.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Jaguar XKR-S Convertible is fast, expensive and already sold out]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-is-fast-expensive-and-already-sol/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-is-fast-expensive-and-already-sol/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/17/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-is-fast-expensive-and-already-sol/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Jaguar has pulled the covers off its 2012 XKR-S Convertible here at the LA Auto Show, the droptop variant of the XKR-S Coupe which arrived earlier this year. Fitted with a power-operated folding cloth roof, the two-door takes its passengers from shade to sun in just 18 seconds at the touch of a button.

The most powerful and fastest open-topped GT Jaguar has ever built, the new flagship convertible is fitted with a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 rated at 550 horsepower and 502 pound-feet of torque. With a standard six-speed paddle-shifted automatic, acceleration to 60 mph from a standstill takes just 4.2 seconds, says the automaker. Top speed for this king of the XK range is 186 mph.

In addition to its upgraded suspension, there are a host of aggressive functional aero bits including a carbon fiber front splitter, side sills and a carbon fiber rear valance. Inside, there are 16-way adjustable sport seats trimmed in carbon leather.

Each XKR-S Convertible carries a sticker price of $138,875 (including $875 destination), which represents a $6,000 premium over its closed-rood coupe sibling. Limited to just 25 units in the States, all have reportedly been sold in advance of the car's debut.

Continue reading 2012 Jaguar XKR-S Convertible is fast, expensive and already sold out

2012 Jaguar XKR-S Convertible is fast, expensive and already sold out originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Nov 2011 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 la auto show2012 jaguar xkr-s convertiblejaguarjaguar xkr-slala 2011la auto showxkxkrxkr-sxkr-s convertiblexkr-s convertible jaguarThu, 17 Nov 2011 16:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20108175/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/17/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-is-fast-expensive-and-already-sol/20108175/article-detail.xml 20108175 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-la-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-la-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Jaguar XKR-S Convertible, the fastest drop-top cat ever offered]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/16/jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-the-fastest-drop-top-cat-ever-offered/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/16/jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-the-fastest-drop-top-cat-ever-offered/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/16/jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-the-fastest-drop-top-cat-ever-offered/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Jaguar XKR-S Convertible

Those wanting Jaguar's top-of-the-line two-door in drop-top form are now getting their wish as the company has officially unveiled the XKR-S Convertible ahead of its official debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The convertible features the same supercharged 550 horsepower 5.0-liter V8 found in the coupe, making it the most powerful rag-top that Jaguar has ever built. It's also the fastest, with the XKR-S sprinting from 0-60 mph in just 4.2 seconds.

The XKR-S Convertible shares the same exterior appointments as its hardtop sibling, featuring a new front bumper with wider, lower air intake and a carbon fiber splitter. There is also a new rear wing with a carbon fiber insert. It doesn't stop there, as the interior also receives special appointments including performance seats trimmed in carbon leather.

You can read more details about the Jaguar XKR-S Convertible in the press release after the jump, and check back tomorrow for live photos of the car from the show floor.

Continue reading 2012 Jaguar XKR-S Convertible, the fastest drop-top cat ever offered

2012 Jaguar XKR-S Convertible, the fastest drop-top cat ever offered originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Nov 2011 03:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jaguarjaguar xkr-sjaguar xkr-s convertiblela 2011la auto showla auto show 2011xkr-sxkr-s convertibleWed, 16 Nov 2011 03:50:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20107469/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/16/jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-the-fastest-drop-top-cat-ever-offered/20107469/article-detail.xml 20107469 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/jaguar-xkr-s-convertible_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/jaguar-xkr-s-convertible.jpg <![CDATA[Jaguar bringing XKR-S Convertible to LA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/11/jaguar-bringing-xkr-s-convertible-to-la/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/11/jaguar-bringing-xkr-s-convertible-to-la/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/11/jaguar-bringing-xkr-s-convertible-to-la/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Jaguar has officially announced that the droptop counterpart to its new XKR-S will bow at the Los Angeles Auto Show next week. We've spied the XKR-S Convertible before, and aside from some minor tweaks to the suspension to keep the car from getting all wobbly after the roof was cut off, not much else is expected to change during the coupe-to-cabrio transformation.

The automaker has not released any details about the XKR-S Convertible at this time, stating only that it and the coupe represent the fastest and most powerful Jaguar automobiles ever created. We were pretty smitten with the hardtop variant when we drove it recently, so we're eager to see how the whole XKR-S experience changes with the wind in your hair.

Stay tuned for the full details live from Los Angeles next week.

Continue reading Jaguar bringing XKR-S Convertible to LA

Jaguar bringing XKR-S Convertible to LA originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Nov 2011 11:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 la2011 los angeles2012 jaguar xkr-s convertiblejaguarla auto showlos angelesxkxkrxkr-sxkr-s convertibleFri, 11 Nov 2011 11:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20104318/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/11/jaguar-bringing-xkr-s-convertible-to-la/20104318/article-detail.xml 20104318 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-spy-shots_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-spy-shots.jpg <![CDATA[Jaguar XKR-S Convertible spotted testing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-spotted-testing/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Jaguar XKR-S Convertible

There isn't much to speculate upon here. Take one tantalizing Jaguar XKR-S, cut off the roof, strengthen the body a bit and voila - Jaguar XKR-S Convertible. Sounds good, right?

Our spies recently captured this bright red prototype out running the Nürburgring, and judging by how composed and put-together this tester looks, we'd say that the XKR-S Convertible's debut isn't too far away. (We're looking at you, Frankfurt Motor Show.)

Expect powertrain and performance details to be carried over unchanged from the coupe. That means the Jaguar droptop will likely produce 550 horsepower and 502 pound-feet of torque from its supercharged 5.0-liter V8. The hardtop will sprint to 60 miles per hour in just 4.2 seconds, but we expect the roofless version to come in with a time that's a tenth of a second or two longer than that.

We'll likely receive more details in the coming weeks. In the meantime, click through our high-res image gallery to see the Jaguar hotness for yourself.

Jaguar XKR-S Convertible spotted testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 jaguar xkr-s convertiblejaguarjaguar xkspy photosspy picsspy shotsxkxkrxkr-sTue, 16 Aug 2011 11:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20018775/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/16/jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-spotted-testing/20018775/article-detail.xml 20018775 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/01-jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-spy-shots630opt-1313508628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/01-jaguar-xkr-s-convertible-spy-shots630opt-1313508628.jpg <![CDATA[Jay Leno puts Jaguar XKR-S through its paces around the Nurburgring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/22/jay-leno-pilots-jaguar-xkr-s-around-the-nurburgring/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/22/jay-leno-pilots-jaguar-xkr-s-around-the-nurburgring/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/22/jay-leno-pilots-jaguar-xkr-s-around-the-nurburgring/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Jay Lenos Garage Jaguar XKR-S

Jaguar put Jay Leno behind the wheel of the company's newest heathen - the XKR-S - for a handful of quick laps around the fabled Nurburgring, and Leno, thankfully, brought along a production staff to record the occasion.

The comedian was able to squeeze in a few lead-follow laps with Sascha Bert on point and eventually worked his speed up to a best time of 8:41. Not too shabby for a guy who's used to putting along under steam power. It's clear from the clip that Leno holds the Nurburgring to be sacred ground.

Leno doesn't spend too much time pontificating on the merits of the XKR-S. While we're treated to plenty of great shots of the car dancing around the track and the sound of its vicious dual-exhaust, the clip is absent any real driving impressions. Still, that's just fine by us. We already know all about how the XKR-S performs. Click past the jump to check out the latest episode of Jay Leno's Garage.

Continue reading Jay Leno puts Jaguar XKR-S through its paces around the Nurburgring

Jay Leno puts Jaguar XKR-S through its paces around the Nurburgring originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Jul 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jaguarjaguar xkr-sjay lenojay lenos garagelenonurburgringxkr-sFri, 22 Jul 2011 20:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19998242/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/22/jay-leno-pilots-jaguar-xkr-s-around-the-nurburgring/19998242/article-detail.xml 19998242 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/jay-lenos-garage-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/jay-lenos-garage-630.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Jaguar XKR-S [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/23/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/23/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/23/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Jaguar XKR-S
2012 Jaguar XKR-S - Click above for high-res image gallery


While Jaguar readies a slate of new vehicles to broaden its product portfolio, it's doing a Bentley-esque job of making the most of the vehicles it currently has. If there's any surprise in the XK getting more new outfits than a Ken doll, it's that we didn't realize there was so much that could be done with it.

Donning its latest new costume, the XK is transformed - via the XKR - into the XKR-S. The fastest and most powerful U.S. legal road car Jaguar has ever made, the brief was to create a coupe that could be hellacious around a track yet remain gracious around town. Our question was whether the XK's six-year-old underpinnings could carry that kind of load, or whether the platform is approaching a point at which cracks would begin to show? It was to the bright white daylight of Portugal for the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve and the roads around Portimao and Faro that we went for our answer...

Continue reading 2012 Jaguar XKR-S [w/video]

2012 Jaguar XKR-S [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Jun 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 jaguar xkr-salgarveautódromo internacional do algarvefeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivejaguarxkxkrxkr-sThu, 23 Jun 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19974159/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/23/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-first-drive-review/19974159/article-detail.xml 19974159 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Jaguar XKR-S looks, sounds beastly]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/03/jaguar-xkr-s-looks-sounds-beastly/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/03/jaguar-xkr-s-looks-sounds-beastly/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/03/jaguar-xkr-s-looks-sounds-beastly/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 Jaguar XKR-S
2011 Jaguar XKR-S - Click above to watch video after the jump

Jaguar has released new footage of the 2012 XKR-S, positively mauling Portugal's Autódromo Internacional do Algarve. As promised, the steroid-fed XK looks to be as fleet-footed as a NASA orbiter, pulling down 60 mph in 4.2 seconds on its way to a 186 mph top speed. It also appears that each and every one of its 542 horses (same as the XJ220) has an insatiable appetite for very expensive tires.

The coolest thing about this big electric blue coupe has to be its evil yowl as heard from inside the garages at the Portimao Circuit. It stands to reason that it should sound good, with a big V8 breathing through what amounts to an open exhaust system, but this big cat has enough aural might to show up even the most hardcore eight-banger from our shores. For the full effect, hit up the video after the jump, and crank the volume up to 11.

Continue reading Jaguar XKR-S looks, sounds beastly

Jaguar XKR-S looks, sounds beastly originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Jun 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 jaguar xkr-sautódromo internacional do algarvejaguarjaguar xkr-sportimao circuitportimãovideoxkxkrxkr-sFri, 03 Jun 2011 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19957616/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/03/jaguar-xkr-s-looks-sounds-beastly/19957616/article-detail.xml 19957616 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/jaguar-xkr-s-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/jaguar-xkr-s-lead.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Jaguar XKR-S promo vid doesn't need to convince us]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/09/video-jaguar-xkr-s-promo-vid-doesnt-need-to-convince-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/09/video-jaguar-xkr-s-promo-vid-doesnt-need-to-convince-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/09/video-jaguar-xkr-s-promo-vid-doesnt-need-to-convince-us/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Jaguar XKR-S promo video
2011 Jaguar XKR-S - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Jaguar had us at 543 supercharged horsepower and 4.2 seconds to 60 miles per hour. Now, they've released this HD teaser video of the 2011 Jaguar XKR-S in action, and we're more than smitten. Putting the bulging fenders, front and rear spoilers and grimacing vents of the XKR-S in action under glorious lighting is bordering on cruel.

Couple that with a fittingly European soundtrack augmented by the Jag's gruesome rasp, and you have a recipe to make us weak in the knees. If you're of the means and you react the same way we did to this video, save your pennies. The XKR-S goes on sale this summer. Check your pulse after watching the video after the break.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Video: Jaguar XKR-S promo vid doesn't need to convince us

Video: Jaguar XKR-S promo vid doesn't need to convince us originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Mar 2011 20:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 jaguar xkr-sjaguarjaguar xkr-s promo videopromo videoxkrxkr-sWed, 09 Mar 2011 20:24:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19874000/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/09/video-jaguar-xkr-s-promo-vid-doesnt-need-to-convince-us/19874000/article-detail.xml 19874000 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/jag-xkr-s-vid_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/jag-xkr-s-vid.jpg <![CDATA[Geneva 2011: 2012 Jaguar XKR-S waves the E-Type's flag at 50]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/01/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-geneva-motor-show-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/01/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-geneva-motor-show-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/01/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-geneva-motor-show-reveal/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2012 Jaguar XKR-S at Geneva reveal
Jaguar XKR-S - Click above for high-res image gallery

Having recently released its innovative and show-stopping C-X75 concept last Fall, Jaguar probably didn't have the resources - or perhaps the need - to create a brand-new E-Type in observance of the seminal car's 50th birthday. Thus, we get the XKR-S, with 550 horsepower, 502 pounds of torque and aggressively redesigned aero. We're not complaining.

The XKR is already a pretty wonderous piece to drive and look at, and this Metallic Smurf example looks nothing if not more imposing, thanks largely to the additional vents feeding the supercharged V8. Jaguar notes that this is the most powerful and fastest production sports car it's ever offered - and yes, it's headed for showrooms - with an 0-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds and a Vmax bumped out to 186 mph.

In addition to the engine and aero tweaks, the XKR-S' suspension has been reworked, there are new 16-way power sport seats with 'carbon-fibre effect' leather (we're pretty sure you're going to need to see this in person to appreciate it), and the whole shebang will be capped off with a price tag of around £97,000 on-the-road. That's around $158,000 U.S., but if it comes to the States, we'd expect it to be significantly less costly. Check out our live gallery below to check the XKR-S out in detail, then venture over to the jump to see Jaguar's full press release.


Gallery: Jaguar XKR-S: Geneva 2011

Jaguar XKR-S: Geneva 2011Jaguar XKR-S: Geneva 2011Jaguar XKR-S: Geneva 2011Jaguar XKR-S: Geneva 2011Jaguar XKR-S: Geneva 2011

Gallery: Jaguar XKR-S


Live photos copyright (C)2011 Drew Phillips / AOL

Continue reading Geneva 2011: 2012 Jaguar XKR-S waves the E-Type's flag at 50

Geneva 2011: 2012 Jaguar XKR-S waves the E-Type's flag at 50 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Mar 2011 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 jaguar xkr-se-type turns 50genevageneva 2011geneva motor showjaguarJaguar XKRxkxkrxkr-sTue, 01 Mar 2011 13:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19862919/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/01/2012-jaguar-xkr-s-geneva-motor-show-reveal/19862919/article-detail.xml 19862919 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/jaguar-xkr-s-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/jaguar-xkr-s-geneva.jpg -1 2