Jaguar XKR-S 5.0 Supercharged
The Jaguar XKR-S, introduced in 2011, was the ultimate expression of the X150 XK platform and, at its launch, the most powerful and fastest production Jaguar ever made. With 542 horsepower and an unrestricted top speed of 186 mph, it combined breathtaking performance with the elegant styling that had always been the XK's greatest asset.
The 5.0-litre supercharged V8 in R-S specification received the same enhancements as the XFR-S, with revised engine management, improved airflow, and a more efficient intercooler extracting additional power and torque from the already potent unit. The result was 542 horsepower and 502 lb-ft of torque, channeled through a six-speed ZF automatic transmission with paddle shifters and revised shift calibration.
The chassis was comprehensively reworked for R-S duty. Spring rates increased, adaptive dampers were recalibrated for greater precision, and the electronic active differential received a more aggressive torque vectoring map. The steering was quicker, and the stability control system offered a more permissive track mode. These changes transformed the XK from a comfortable grand tourer into a genuine high-performance sports car.
Aerodynamic modifications included a new front bumper with larger air intakes, a carbon fiber rear diffuser, a fixed rear wing, and reshaped side sills. These components were not merely cosmetic; they generated genuine downforce at high speeds, improving stability and confidence during aggressive driving.
The visual impact was striking. Available in a palette of bright, bold colors that departed from the usual Jaguar subtlety, the XKR-S looked every bit as fast as it was. The 20-inch alloy wheels, wider tires, and quad exhaust pipes completed the aggressive appearance.
Inside, the XKR-S featured sport seats with pronounced bolsters, Alcantara accents, carbon fiber trim, and a unique instrument cluster with an extended rev counter. The cabin retained the XK's inherent elegance while adding the sporting touches that the R-S character demanded.
The XKR-S was produced as both coupe and convertible, with the coupe being slightly more popular. Total production was approximately 560 units globally, making it one of the rarest Jaguars of the modern era. Critics praised the car's ability to combine devastating straight-line performance with genuine cross-country touring ability, and the charisma that set it apart from more clinical German rivals.
As with the XFR-S, check supercharger condition and cooling system health. The six-speed ZF gearbox is older technology than the eight-speed in the XFR-S but equally reliable with proper maintenance. Carbon fiber components are expensive to repair. The wide rear tires wear quickly. Adaptive damper failures can be costly. These are now significantly below original MSRP and represent excellent value for the performance offered. Convertible versions have a more complex roof mechanism to check.
Produced from 2011 to 2014 in both coupe and convertible body styles. Total global production approximately 560 units. It was the last and most extreme version of the X150 XK platform. The XKR-S was developed by Jaguar's Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division.