Jaguar XFR-S Sportbrake unveiled – packs 405 kW

The third model in Jaguar’s ultra-high performance R-S range, the XFR-S Sportbrake joins its XFR-S saloon sibling in the exclusive 300km/h club. Incorporating engineering features from both the XKR-S and the all-new F-TYPE two-seater sports car, the sportswagon aims to be the most driver-focused, agile and responsive iteration of Jaguar’s XF model range.

“Combining real-world versatility with electrifying performance, the XFR-S Sportbrake brings Jaguar’s sporting character to life in a truly engaging car that will satisfy the most demanding of drivers while fitting into the most active of lifestyles,” said Dean Murden, Vehicle Programme Director of Jaguar

Electrifying performance is provided by the 5.0-litre supercharged V8 petrol engine, which now boasts 550 hp (405 kW) of power and 680 Nm of torque – up 40 hp (30 kW) and 55Nm respectively over its XFR installation. The increases have been achieved through revisions to the engine management system and optimisation of the flow of air both into and out of the engine. This level of performance puts the big cat right in the ballparks of the Audi RS6 Avant and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Estate.

Fitted with an eight-speed transmission incorporating Jaguar’s ‘Quickshift’ technology (developed for the F-TYPE), the increase in engine output allows the XFR-S Sportbrake to unleash from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.8 seconds and on to an electronically limited top speed of 300km/h.

In order to manage the extra rear mass of the XFR-S Sportbrake while retaining the sharp turn-in and response of the XFR-S Saloon, the Sportbrake’s rear suspension has been modified with revisions to both rear spring rates and the adaptive damper tune. These revisions work together to increase the feeling of connectivity with the road surface, allowing for confidence-inspiring handling and a supple, controlled ride.

Recalibrated active electronic differential, Adaptive Dynamics and Dynamic Stability Control settings have been tuned to work with the XFR-S Sportbrake’s modified rear suspension to allow the enthusiastic driver to make the most of the car’s huge potential.

Like the sedan, the Sportbrake gets a more aggressive body kit, with deeper front bumper, beefier side skirts and chunky alloy wheels.

The new, deeper front bumper incorporates larger lower central and side air intakes – the former framed in carbon fibre – in order to provide adequate airflow into the engine bay. A front splitter at the lower edge of the bumper provides the first of a number of aerodynamic changes designed to smooth the passage of the car through the air at very high speeds.

At the back, an extended rear bumper incorporates a central, carbon fibre diffuser, deeper than the item found on the XFR and which travels further under the rear of the car to reduce lift.

Rolling stock is provided by wider, six-spoke, 20-inch lightweight Varuna forged alloy wheels. As an option the wheels can be supplied in either full gloss black or technical grey finishes. The tyres are developed in conjunction with Pirelli exclusively for the XFR-S Sportbrake, measuring 265/35 for the front and 295/30 at the rear.

The assertive appearance of the XFR-S Sportbrake is further enhanced through the use of gloss black trim in place of chrome around the grille, within the side vent, around the front and rear screens, windows and across the bootlid. The mesh in the front grilles is also a purposeful gloss black.

XFR-S Sportbrake customers can choose from an exterior palette comprising five colours: Ultra Blue, Ultimate Black, Stratus Grey, Polaris White and Italian Racing Red.

Not that you will ever get bored of that 5.0-litre V8, the XFR-S Sportbrake is fitted as standard with a 825W, 18-speaker system from British audio experts Meridian. The system features Meridian’s proprietary Trifield System that places every occupant at the centre of their own perfectly focused surround-sound arena.

Available in UK from April 1st, the XFR-S Sportbrake will have a starting price of just over £80,000.

Jaguar XFR-S Sportbrake specification