Jaguar XKR-S Convertible Unveiled With 542-HP: 2011 LA Auto Show
The all new Jaguar XKR-S Convertible is now official, boasting a supercharged 5.0L V8 engine that is also found in the XKR-S Coupe. With 542-hp, this makes it Jaguar’s most powerful open-top model yet and also rounds off the XK-line with a convertible variant for every model.
Performance numbers for this convertible are impressive, with a 0-60 mph time of just 4.2-seconds and a top speed of 186-mph. And despite packing over 100-lbs more than the Coupe model, the performance figures are identical. Lowering the roof takes a mere 18-seconds after a push of a button and to ensure stability at its top speed, Jaguar’s engineers added some aerodynamic upgrades over the XKR Convertible, giving it a more aggressive look as well.
The XKR-S Convertible sits 0.4-inch lower, while the new front bumper sports a wider air intake and a carbon fiber splitter. New side skirts flow towards the rear where a new rear wing can be found sporting a carbon fiber center. All of the aerodynamic changes equate to a 26-percent improvement to downforce.
And to give it a classier appearance, the chrome trim was swapped out for gloss black painted pieces, while the 20-inch Vulcan wheels are standard along with the brake calipers done in a bright red or more subtle gunmetallic grey. The suspension is also upgraded from the XKR Convertible, with stiffer springs and Active Damping software in order to maximize body control and grip. The front features massive 15-inch rotors with the rear barely smaller at 14.8-inch. The result is 38-percent more stopping power than the XKR counterpart.
GALLERY: Jaguar XKR-S Convertible
Jaguar will officially unveil the XKR-S Convertible today at the LA Auto Show. For a full preview of the show and complete coverage, click here.
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
More by Jason Siu
Comments
Join the conversation