Press lounge - Publications - Jag´s M5 rival gets 400bhp

Jaguar S-type R Supercharged S-type will be in showrooms from next April

THE FIRST test prototypes of Jaguars fire-breathing 400bhp S-type R have started hot weather testing ahead of next April's on-sale date.

Spotted in Arizona, near Death Valley, these lightly disguised cars Show off the S-type R´s new front bumper and mesh-trimmed grille, rear boot Spoiler and twin exhausts. The deliberately subde changes are designed to underscore Jag's wish to make the R-badge synonymous with understated and refined performance. The car also shows off the new plinth location for the Jag badge, which has been moved from the bonnet itself to the top of the grille. At the hot S-type's heart is a supercharged Series 2 version of Jaguars quad-cam, 48-valve allaIloy AIV8 engine.

Capacity will be stretched to 4.2 litres using a longer stroke crankshaft, while peak power and torque will be boosted by an Eaton supercharger. Boost pressure from the lobe-type blower is expected to be about 0.8bar sufficient to produce 400bhp and at least 370lb ft of torque.

The five-year-old AJ is also getting a mid-life spruce-up, including many detail revisions such as improved variable valve timing and redesigned throttle bodies to ensure smoother operation, greater flexibility and reduced fuel consumption. Drive is fed through a new six-speed ZF automatic, which replaces today's Ford unit. The hot S-type won't be offered with a manual alternative.

	Hugely fast S-type R gets new dash, 400bhp supercharged engine and boot spoiler

Suspension modifications to the front/rear double wishbones include revised geometry and stiffer wishbones to promote more precise steering and better handling. Jaguar´s computerised CATS suspension will, the company claims, ensure both a smoother boulevard ride and excellent high-speed body control.

Although the awesome BMW M5 is the target car, Jaguar will offen refined, comfortable and usable performance compared to the more race track-oriented german car. Performance is likely to be exceptional with a top speed close to 160mph, a 0-60mph Sprint in about 5.0sec and crushing mid-range acceleration. Inside, a new dashboard - with squared-off centre console like the X-type's - and door trim panels can be seen through the disguise. The revamped S-type is scheduled for launch at January's Detroit Motor Show.

Text: Julian Rendell