Making its debut today, at the 2011 Los Angeles Motor Show, is the Jaguar XKR-S Convertible, the fastest and most powerful convertible model Jaguar has ever produced. Thanks to its 550 horsepower supercharged V8 engine the XKR-S Convertible can reach 186 mph, and 0-60 mph takes just 4.2 seconds.
The XKR-S features a comprehensive array of updates over the XKR Convertible, including a revised lightweight aluminum chassis which makes the XKR-S the stiffest car in its class. The XKR-S also features an active exhaust which provides more power and torque, while also giving the car a distinctive soundtrack. Other changes include a revised suspension system which brings the car 10mm closer to the ground, an uprated Active Dynamics system, styling modifications dictated by aerodynamic testing, a unique rear wing, and an upgraded interior.
The reason for the XKR-S’s increased performance over the standard car is because of the changes to the 5.0-litre supercharged AJ-V8 engine. By remapping the fuelling delivery and increasing exhaust gas flow with the active exhaust, Jaguar’s engineers were able to increase the output to 550 horsepower and 502lb/ft (680Nm) of torque. These figures represent a power increase of 8 percent and torque increase of 9 percent over the Jaguar XKR. The transmission is a six-speed automatic gearbox with Active Differential.
The styling of the Jaguar XKR-S Convertible was altered out of necessity as well as taste. The immense aerodynamic forces created by a car travelling at 186 mph required Jaguar’s designers and engineers to look at ways of making the car more stable at high speed.
The new bodywork gives the front of the car a dramatic and bold appearance. Vertical feature lines run down from the edges of the oval air intake into a new bumper design which incorporates a wider, lower air intake, a carbon fibre splitter and twin side nacelles. At the edges of the bumper, vertical panels channel air down the side of the car along new sills, which serve to both smooth the horizontal airflow and emphasise the reduction in ride height.
A unique rear wing with a carbon fibre inlay works in conjunction with a rear apron featuring a carbon fibre diffuser. The result is a reduction in overall lift of 26 percent, and balanced aerodynamics front and rear to keep the car firmly planted to the road.
The interior of the XKR-S features exclusive carbon-leather trimmed versions of Jaguar’s Performance seats which feature integrated head rests, racing harness cut-outs and increased side and squab support to hold driver and passenger securely during high speed cornering. The 16-way adjustable, heated seats feature carbon leather trim panels and contrasting piping unique to the model.
Source: Jaguar
