o The new XKR with optional Black Pack for added visual impact
o The new XKR with optional Speed Pack for a significantly increased maximum speed
- With the optional Speed Pack, the maximum speed of the XKR is raised from 155mph (250km/h) to an electronically limited 174mph (280km/h) thanks to recalibration of the engine management system.
- New optional Black Pack allows customers to create a bold, extrovert XKR, with the addition of dramatic gloss black 20-inch Kalimnos alloy wheels, gloss black finish to the front air grilles and side Power Vents, red brake calipers, a body-coloured aerodynamic pack (including a front chin spoiler and larger rear spoiler) and an optional ‘XKR’ body side graphic along the lower sills.
- Advanced aluminium body architecture is strong and light-weight and the key to optimising performance, dynamic agility, competitive CO2 emissions and fuel economy.
- AJ-V8 Gen III direct-injection engines are the most advanced and efficient engines Jaguar has ever produced:
• 5.0-litre supercharged AJ-V8 Gen III R delivers 510PS (510bhp SAE), 625Nm of torque and propels XKR coupe to 60mph in just 4.6 seconds
• 5.0-litre naturally aspirated AJ-V8 Gen III engine delivers 385PS (385bhp SAE), 515Nm of torque and propels XK coupe to 60mph in just 5.2 seconds
- Improved CO2 emissions performance (Euro Stage V compliant two years ahead of legislative requirement) and fuel economy comparable to the less powerful 4.2-litre engines they replace.
- State-of-the-art six-speed automatic transmission has seamless gearshifts plus, on the XKR model, an electronic differential that optimises traction and dynamic performance.
- New design features, including exciting user-friendly technologies such as the JaguarDrive Selector™ first seen on the XF, further enhance performance, driving dynamics and the XK’s luxury sporting character.
- The new XKR Special Edition with Speed and Black Packs was unveiled at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show on March 2nd, 2010.
INTRODUCTION
The 2011 XK and XKR
“Built in the tradition of great grand tourers, with state-of-the-art engineering, aerospace-inspired construction and outstanding driving dynamics, the XK is the latest in a long line of legendary performance Jaguars.”
Mike O’Driscoll, Managing Director, Jaguar Cars
Jaguar unveiled the latest dramatic evolution of its supercharged XKR coupe at the Geneva Motor Show on 2nd March 2010. This XKR delivers a significantly raised maximum speed – up to 174mph from 155mph – and bold styling changes that create an evocative and unique supercharged Jaguar.
The XKR Coupe unveiled at Geneva showcases two new optional performance and styling packs – Speed Pack and Black Pack - that are introduced to the XK range at 2011 Model Year. Jaguar customers have the option to personalise their vehicle to create a car that offers even greater performance without compromising the refinement and luxury for which every Jaguar is renowned.
By raising the XKR’s maximum speed the new car has extended its sporting credentials taking it even further into supercar performance territory.
Russ Varney, Chief Programme Engineer, XK Series, explains the philosophy behind the uprated XKR: “With 510PS and 625Nm of torque, the XKR has immense reserves of power and acceleration which impress everyone who experience it. The car has always had the potential to reach speeds far beyond its original electronically limited maximum and many of our customers have expressed an interest in a car that can safely be driven faster where conditions permit. The new Speed Pack allows them to release some of that potential and give them control of the fastest Jaguar XK we’ve made to date.”
The XKR Coupe featured at the Geneva Show pairs both the optional Speed and Black Packs to create the bold new model, which also sports optional Piano Black veneers on the dashboard and red brake callipers.
The combined efforts of Jaguar’s designers and engineers have produced a sports car that also utilises advanced technologies at a higher level than ever before. The benefits of the XK’s lightweight but stiff and strong chassis are already acknowledged. Not only does this architecture bring dynamic benefits to all XK models thanks to its torsional rigidity, it also offers excellent safety and crash repair features and provides the ideal base to improve performance across the board – including optimised fuel economy and CO2 emissions.
The AJ-V8 Gen III engines are the most advanced and efficient Jaguar has ever produced. They deliver significantly more power and torque than the previous generation of engines: 510PS and 625Nm in the new supercharged XKR and 385PS and 515Nm in the normally aspirated XK models. All models except the new 174mph (280km/h) XKR with Speed Pack are electronically limited to a maximum speed of 155mph (250kph), but the 0-60mph sprint for naturally aspirated coupe models is now 5.2 seconds (previously 5.9 seconds), while for the supercharged XKR coupe, 0-60mph is 4.6 seconds (previously 4.9 seconds).
In-gear times are equally impressive, with the naturally aspirated XK accelerating from 50-70mph in just 2.5 seconds, while the supercharged XKR completes the same sprint in just 1.9 seconds.
And yet thanks to a combination of excellent powertrain efficiency and the XK’s advanced lightweight body architecture, all XKs offer strong fuel economy and impressive CO2 emissions ratings. Fuel economy is comparable to the previous generation of XK – despite the significant increases in power and performance – and CO2 emissions from each engine are better than the out-going versions.
Allowing the engines to optimise their power is one of the most sophisticated transmissions available. Jaguar’s acclaimed electronically controlled, six-speed ZF 6HP28 transmission offers an unparalleled combination of driver control matched to virtually undetectable gearshifts. With control either from steering wheel-mounted paddles or full automatic mode via the JaguarDrive Selector™, the transmission is now paired with an advanced electronic differential on the XKR model. This ensures the supercharged car accelerates even faster, handles even more precisely and sets new standards of dynamic control.
“With a supercharged AJ-V8 engine and dramatic new looks, the new XKR has all the performance, power and panache that you expect in the ultimate sporting Jaguar.”
Mike O’Driscoll, Managing Director, Jaguar Cars
The XKR Speed Pack
The XKR Coupe with new optional Speed Pack allows customers to further strengthen their XKR’s already impressive breadth of capability, by extending the car’s top speed from 155mph (250km/h) to an electronically limited 174mph (280km/h) thanks to a unique engine and transmission recalibration.
To ensure the XKR with Speed Pack remains stable at high speeds, the coupe uses a revised front aerodynamic splitter and larger rear spoiler to provide increased balance and a reduction in lift. The XKR’s computerised Active Differential Control also adjusts to reduce steering sensitivity at very high speeds, further improving stability and driver control.
Every XKR with the Speed Pack will come with body-coloured side sills and rear diffuser, and a chrome finish to the window surrounds, upper and lower mesh grilles, side Power Vents and boot lid finisher. Red brake callipers with a Jaguar ‘R’ logo sit inside 20-inch Kasuga alloy wheels.
Customers who order the XKR Coupe with the Speed Pack will be offered a paint palette that is part of the Jaguar Designers’ Choice programme – a range of colours that have been specifically chosen to compliment the performance potential of the car. Seven colours are available on Speed Pack models – Ultimate Black, Polaris White, Salsa Red, Liquid Silver, Lunar Grey, Kyanite Blue and Spectrum Blue.
The XKR Speed and Black Pack
For customers looking to create a real statement with their Speed Pack XKR Coupe, the new optional Black Pack allows them to own a bold and purposeful Jaguar with undeniable visual impact thanks to menacing gloss black wheels and exterior detailing.
Available only with the Speed Pack, XKRs fitted with the Black Pack have a paint palette selected from colours that Jaguar’s Design team believe to be ideal for creating a coupe with immediate exclusivity. The Black Pack models will be available in Ultimate Black, Polaris White or Salsa Red and boast eye-catching 20-inch gloss black Kalimnos alloy wheels. Further gloss black finishing is applied to the window surrounds and front grilles. Red painted brake callipers contrast strongly with the black alloy wheels, while body coloured front and rear spoilers and boot lid finisher round out the package. Customers also have the option to apply a sweeping ‘XKR’ side body graphic that runs along the door sills.
Jaguar’s Design Director, Ian Callum, says the new Black Pack is a fitting addition to the XKR: “While Jaguars are about beauty, they are also about speed and power. With the optional Black Pack you can now add a sense of drama and severity to that performance.”
In addition to the Black Pack’s exterior changes, the Jaguar Designers’ Choice programme has also selected a range of interior trims that support the visual impact of the car. All XKRs with the Black Pack will be trimmed with Charcoal leather hides that can be personalised with a range of colour stitching and grain. Three interior finishes and veneers for the fascia and door trims are also available – Dark Oak, Dark Mesh Aluminium and Piano Black.
Other enhancements for 11MY
To underline the XKR's sporting credentials at 11MY red brake callipers become standard on all XKR Coupe and Convertible models.
A tyre repair Instant Mobility System (IMS) becomes standard on all XK and XKR models. This frees up the 30-litre wheel well, which is now carpeted and can hold a specially designed and tailored XK accessory suitcase, substantially increasing the versatility of the car.
In the UK, retail pricing of the XK range starts at £61,955 for the 5.0 n/a V8 petrol. The Speed Pack costs £3,500 and the Speed and Black Pack costs £4,000. Both are available on XKR Coupe only. For more information go to www.jaguar.co.uk.
THE NEW 2011 XK AND XKR IN DETAIL
The Jaguar XK is a sophisticated grand tourer with the heart of a true sports car, combining effortless high-performance and state-of-the-art V8 powertrains with a new level of advanced technologies, intuitive control and Jaguar’s superbly crafted, new-fashioned luxury interiors. The range comprises naturally aspirated XK and supercharged XKR models, available in 2+2 coupe or convertible body styles.
Advanced AJ-V8 Gen III 5.0-litre direct-injection engines bring significant improvements in power and torque and they do so without compromising fuel economy and emissions. In both respects, every model in the new XK range, in spite of such large performance and flexibility gains across the board, is comparable to their predecessors.
The impressive fuel economy for such powerful cars is attributable to the combination of the XK range’s lowest-in-class weight and the AJ-V8 Gen III engines. As well as the intrinsic advantages of the engines’ light weight, these advanced all-aluminium four-cam power units have a number of features that deliver power with very high efficiency, including spray-guided direct injection (SGDI), which improves performance and economy, and dual independent variable cam timing (DIVCT), which benefits performance and economy, while also reducing emissions.
The simplified and logical model range for the new XK comprises three clear choices – XK, XK Portfolio and supercharged XKR with optional Speed and Black Packs. Each has its own specific choices of trim, colour and fine detail, but every one has the same underlying sporting character and clear emphasis on efficient performance, luxury and craftsmanship. Beyond that, the XK vehicle personalisation programme also offers an extensive range of accessories that allow the customer to add further bespoke touches, both inside and out.
Performance on a new level
In naturally aspirated form, the AJ-V8 Gen III 5.0-litre engine delivers 385PS (SAE) and 380lb ft (515Nm) of torque – respectively 26 and 23 percent more than its 4.2-litre predecessor. The XKR’s supercharged 5.0-litre version delivers a mighty 510PS (510bhp SAE) and 461lb ft (625Nm) of torque – improvements of 23 and 12 percent respectively over the supercharged 4.2-litre engine.
On the road, while maximum speed for all models except the XKR with Speed Pack remains under electronic control at 155mph (250kph), these power and torque gains allied to the lightweight aluminium body architecture of the XK dramatically improve acceleration times. For the naturally aspirated XK, 0-60mph is reduced to 5.2 seconds from 5.9 seconds (and 0-100kph from 6.2 to 5.5 seconds); for the supercharged XKR, 0-60mph is reduced to 4.6 seconds from 4.9 (and 0-100kph to 4.8 seconds from 5.2).
The supercharged XKR is also impressively efficient, with combined fuel economy of 23.0mpg and a CO2 rating of 292g/km – an improvement over the previous XKR – and 16 and 17 percent better, respectively, than the equivalent figures for the BMW M6.
Crucially, however, the naturally aspirated XK also continues to better its closest rivals on economy and CO2 ratings, with an average consumption of 25.2mpg and a CO2 figure of 264g/km – seven percent better than the equivalent figures for the Mercedes-Benz SL500 thanks to its fuel efficient engine and significantly lower kerb weight: 1660kg compared to the SL500’s 1845kg.
Exterior design
Visible changes on the latest XK and XKR reflect the significant changes under the skin. Carefully revised exteriors take the seductive, elegant lines that define Jaguar’s new design language and interpret them for a beautiful 2+2 sports car whose shape is even more taut, powerful and athletic. Evoking the essence of performance long before it moves, the XK family shape is unmistakably ‘new-school’ sporting Jaguar: wholly contemporary, finely sculpted, efficiently packaged and precisely detailed.
Design Director Ian Callum outlines important design features on the XK range:
“The current XK was the first car to signify a new generation of Jaguars – cars that have honed our image every bit as successfully as the original XK120 or E-type. Now the XK range reinforces that message. The cars’ visual agility and beautiful lines have been enhanced with a distinctive front end, rear lights and revised body styling that gives every model even more presence.”
The exterior changes for the naturally aspirated XK models and the supercharged XKR are highlighted by a distinctive and purposeful front end design, LED rear lights and a stylish lower rear body valance. LED rear light clusters incorporating fog lamps plus twin reversing lamps (rather than the previous single lamp units) give every XK a unique ‘night time signature’, while LED technology is also included in the integrated side repeater and approach lamps in the new exterior mirrors. Every XK also features revised body-coloured side power vents.
Beyond the shared changes, subtle differences in detail distinguish each of the three models in the XK range. All display purposeful front bumper features with stylish, chrome-detailed inserts and further chrome detailing to the upper mesh grille. The XKR is set apart by also featuring chrome on its lower mesh grille - which is finished in black on the XK and XK Portfolio models. All models feature chrome detailing on window surrounds and rear signature blade, and in addition the XKR comes with a lower rear valance that is finished in body colour and a revised tailpipe design, further emphasising its sporting performance.
Interior design
Contemporary, sporting luxury, exceptional quality of craftsmanship, and Jaguar’s renowned attention to detail are the keynotes of the XK range’s enhanced interiors. The cabin is clean, elegant and spacious, and remains entirely in harmony with the sporting character of the revised exterior.
The luxury character of the XK and XKR, however, is guaranteed, regardless of the customer’s choice of body style – hard-topped coupe or fabric-roofed convertible. Both benefit from the inherent strength of Jaguar’s lightweight aluminium architecture, which means that as well as being the lightest body structure in its class, the body shells also have the highest torsional strength. And that exceptional rigidity, with or without a fixed roof, means creak and rattle-free refinement, even on unforgiving surfaces.
Beyond that, the convertible’s triple-lined fabric roof gives a level of fit and stability, even at very high speeds, that minimises wind noise and other road noise and includes a luxurious interior finish almost indistinguishable from a fixed roof. In addition, XK Portfolio and XKR models feature luxurious Jaguar Suedecloth headlinings as standard.
The folding roof can be powered up or down at the touch of a button in less than 18 seconds. And when it is lowered, the convertible’s flush-folding roof retracts completely into the bodywork behind the rear seats, under a smooth cover that retains the elegant, sporting lines of the car. A roll-over protection system, which remains hidden unless it is needed, deploys instantaneously as necessary to provide occupants with the highest levels of protection in the event of an incident.
For both coupé and convertible, the latest feature enhancements are showcased by the JaguarDrive Selector™, which is neatly and elegantly packaged in the centre console. The welcome to the car is also enhanced by bright treadplate inserts. Many of the other changes emphasise high levels of Jaguar craftsmanship with jewel-like touches. The three-spoke steering wheel has a leather-wrapped lower spoke, and Jaguar’s striking ‘growler’ badge. The XKR’s instruments further emphasise its performance character with red pointers, while all models adopt a new white illumination for their instruments.
Heated and cooled front seats are standard equipment on the XK Portfolio and on XKR with the optional R Performance interior (dependent on market), and available as an option on the XK. The XK features 10-way seat adjustability for both driver and passenger seats, with heating and memory functions as standard – while the XKR seats have similar functions but with the unique R seat style. The XK Portfolio and XKR with the optional R Performance interior have 16-way adjustable seats with heating and memory functions, adjustable side bolsters and new cooled seats as standard.
The door casings are even more luxuriously crafted than before, with saddle-stitched lines and an interlayer to give a softer touch to the top shoulder of the casing. The leather door pulls also introduce twin-needle stitching and a soft-feel interlayer. In each door, the modified seat switch pack now includes single-piece chrome ‘highlight’ switches.
There is a wide choice of interior colour options, including a new combination for the XK Portfolio and XKR of Ivory seating with Oyster upper cabin trim and Oyster carpets. Bond grain leather is standard on the XK interior, and an even higher quality soft-grain leather with contrast stitching is standard in the XK Portfolio and the XKR.
Real wood veneers remain an important part of Jaguar craftsmanship and now include a Rich Oak veneer option alongside the classic Burr Walnut for all three models. The XK Portfolio also offers the choice of an Ebony veneer, while the XKR offers its own unique alternative in Dark Oak. A Knurled Aluminium veneer is also available on XK and XK Portfolio, while Dark Mesh Aluminium is available on XKR.
Industry-leading lightweight body architecture
Globally recognised as one of the key elements in Jaguar’s intelligent use of advanced technologies, the XK’s industry-leading lightweight architecture constructs the entire body shell (the internal chassis structure and external body panels) from a combination of pressed, cast and extruded aluminium alloy components. These are riveted and bonded together using techniques originally developed in the aerospace industry and adapted for automotive use by Jaguar.
The result is a body shell with a depth of quality that is rooted in the highest structural integrity. It is also the lightest shell in its class by a significant margin and the most torsionally stiff. That all-round strength, rigidity and lightness underpin many aspects of the XK’s excellence, from fuel-efficient performance to its inherent safety, durability and refinement – and, of course, its precise chassis dynamics.
Mike Cross, Chief Engineer, Vehicle Integrity explains the benefits of this advanced body architecture: “Lightness benefits agility, and agility with high performance defines the exhilarating yet refined nature of the Jaguar XK. It accelerates harder, stops more quickly and handles with true precision – setting new standards of dynamic excellence.”
The most advanced Jaguar V8 engines ever.
AJ-V8 Gen III engines in brief:
- Direct-injection engines are much more powerful, compact and efficient
- 510PS, 625Nm, 292g/km CO2, 23.0mpg (12.3 l/100km) combined fuel economy (the supercharged
Gen III R)
- 385PS, 515Nm, 264g/km CO2, 25.2mpg (11.2 l/100km) combined fuel economy (the naturally aspirated Gen III)
- Conforms to EU 5 and US ULEV2 emissions regulations
- High efficiency, sixth-generation twin vortex supercharger (TVS) on XKR
- Central spray-guided direct-injection increases efficiency and torque
- Torque-actuated variable camshaft timing on all four camshafts for improved response and efficiency
- Cam profile switching in naturally aspirated engine
- Variable-geometry inlet manifold on naturally aspirated engine further increases low and high-end torque
- Low-friction design optimises fuel consumption
- 15,000-mile service intervals
Since the first XK was launched in 1948, generations of powerful yet refined engines have played a crucial role in establishing the unique character and pedigree of Jaguar cars. Now, the 5.0-litre V8 direct-injection engines continue that tradition, delivering increased power and torque with reduced emissions and impressive fuel economy. Available in two versions – the supercharged 510PS and naturally aspirated 385PS – the latest AJ-V8 Gen III engines exemplify Jaguar’s reputation for innovation and engineering excellence.
Commenting on the latest engine range, Ron Lee, Powertrain Group Chief Engineer, said: “We set ourselves the challenge of developing a V8 engine series that improved on the performance and the refinement of the excellent 4.2-litre, with comparable fuel economy and improved emissions. We have achieved that with the AJ-V8 Gen III – a superbly responsive power unit of unsurpassed efficiency.”
Jaguar’s petrol V8s have been designed using the expertise of powertrain engineers at Jaguar’s product development centre at Whitley, Coventry, UK. Malcolm Sandford, Engine Group Chief Engineer, explains the concept behind the project: “The emphasis was on delivering efficiency, superior dynamic response and highly accessible low-end torque suited to real-world driving, without compromising power at higher engine speeds.”
The results are clear to see. Performance has been increased by 29 percent and 23 percent (87 and 94PS) on the naturally aspirated and supercharged engines respectively, yet both meet EU5 and US ULEV2 emissions regulations. Despite the significant increases in power, both have better emissions and comparable fuel economy to the previous 4.2-litre units.
Both AJ-V8 Gen III petrol engines are state-of-the-art in every sense. The technical features have been engineered to deliver unparalleled efficiency, refinement, power and torque for which Jaguar is famous, combined with the lowest possible emissions. Low-speed torque characteristics and throttle response are world-class, while the supercharged version is one of the most economical 5.0-litre V8 engine available.
Light, robust and very strong
The AJ-V8 engines are built around a stiff, all-new, aluminium block with cast-in iron liners and cross-bolted main bearing caps to reduce noise, vibration and harshness. The blocks are high pressure die-cast, providing a superior finish and greater dimensional accuracy. The engines use aluminium heads, with four valves per cylinder and spheroidal-graphite cast-iron crankshafts and forged steel connecting rods. The cylinder heads for the first time are specified with a secondary (recycled) aluminium alloy thus reducing the environmental impact of manufacturing the new engine.
The 5.0-litre direct injection petrol engines are more compact than their predecessors. Overall engine length has been reduced by 24mm by relocation of the oil pump within the engine architecture. This length reduction – apparently a small amount – improves engine bay packaging in support of enhanced safety cell performance while ensuring overall engine weight is virtually unchanged.
Twin vortex supercharger optimises power
A sixth-generation, twin vortex system supercharger is fitted to the XKR’s 510PS engine. It is a compact Roots-type unit, feeding air through twin intercoolers, which in turn are water-cooled by their own discreet cooling circuit. The high helix rotor design improves the supercharger thermodynamic efficiency by 16 percent over its predecessor. It also improves noise quality to the point where the unit is now virtually inaudible (making supercharger whine a thing of the past). The intercoolers reduce the temperature of the pressurised intake-air and so optimise power and efficiency.
The air intake has been radically redesigned compared to the previous V8. The intake air path is a direct feed to the supercharger inlet from the centrally mounted front throttle body. Air is delivered through twin air boxes, which reduce flow loss and further increase efficiency.
Mechanically, the new supercharger and its intercoolers are efficiently packaged in the ‘V‘ of the engine to deliver a lower overall engine height in support of pedestrian safety requirements.
Direct injection - power with economy
One of the key features of the petrol engines is an industry-first, centrally-mounted, multi-hole, spray-guided fuel injection system, delivering fuel at a pressure of up to 150bar directly to the cylinder. This substantially contributes to improved low-speed, dynamic response. The positioning of the injectors ensures fuel is precisely delivered to the centre of the combustion chamber, maximising air-fuel mixing and improving combustion control. Fuel is delivered via twin, high-pressure fuel pumps that are driven via auxiliary shaft in the all-new engine block.
The charge cooling effects of the direct-injection fuel system have allowed the compression ratio of the naturally aspirated engine to be raised to 11.5:1, further optimising the engine economy. The supercharged engine also benefits from a compression ratio increase to 9.5:1 from 9.0:1 in the previous 4.2-litre.
During the engine warm-up phase, the combustion system employs multiple injection mode strategies to deliver 50 percent more heat for fast catalyst warm-up and emissions reduction.
Torque-actuated variable-camshaft timing improves efficiency
A new type of variable camshaft timing (VCT) system introduces another technology. The four VCT units are activated by the positive and negative torques generated by opening and closing the intake and exhaust valves, instead of by oil pressure. This has allowed the engine oil pump to be reduced in size, saving energy and improving fuel consumption.
VCT units work independently on all four camshafts with 62 degrees of authority on the inlet cams and 50 degrees of authority on the exhaust cams. Timing is optimised by the engine control unit for torque, power and economy at every point in the engine’s speed range.
The VCT units are capable of a response rate up to three times faster than in previous Jaguar engines, with actuation rates in excess of 150 degrees per second. This delivers a more immediate engine response to the driver’s demand for power.
The naturally aspirated engine is also equipped with camshaft profile switching (CPS) on the inlet camshaft. Depending on the engine’s running conditions and the demands of the driver, the CPS will switch between a profile that is ideal for low-speed driving and another which gives increased valve lift for high performance.
Hydraulically-actuated two-piece tappets switch between profiles on the tri-lobe camshaft altering both the lift and duration. The cam lobe profile selected for lower engine speeds has a duration of 214° and lifts the valves 5.5mm. This optimises gas velocity for improved low-speed torque and reduces valvetrain friction for improved fuel economy. For high-speed driving, CPS switches to a cam lobe with a duration of 250° and valve-lift of 10.5mm, allowing greater air flow for high power. Switching is activated at 2800rpm at high load, ranging to 4500rpm at light load conditions.
Variable Inlet Manifold optimises torque through the rev range
A variable inlet manifold (VIM) on the naturally aspirated engine can vary the length of its eight inlet tracts to optimise power and torque throughout the rev range. Vacuum-operated actuators open valves to select a longer, 680mm, inlet tract at low revs, increasing the rate of both the airflow and the engine torque. As the revs climb beyond 4700rpm, the actuators select a shorter, 350mm path allowing a greater volume of air into the engine to optimise power. The actuator position is monitored by the engine control unit to improve torque throughout the engine speed range.
Reverse cooling turns up the heat
Every component in both V8 engines has been optimised for efficiency, performance, low-end torque and reliability. An innovative reverse-flow cooling system design has been employed to deliver thermodynamic and friction improvements. The reverse-flow cooling system pumps coolant through the cylinder heads before it flows through the block and returns to the radiator. The resulting cooler cylinder heads allow more optimum, knock-free, ignition timings.
In addition, the 22kW oil-to-water heat exchanger, packaged at the core of the engine, transfers heat from the coolant to the lubricating oil during warm up, bringing the oil up to operating temperature 14 percent faster than the cooling system used in the 4.2-litre V8. This improves fuel consumption in the crucial engine warm-up period by approximately one percent - again a small amount, but part of a package of efficiencies.
Reducing friction – something for nothing
Minimising internal friction is key to improving fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, and as such was a key aim when it came to the design of the engines. As a result, the Jaguar AJ-V8 Gen III engines achieve another best in class, setting a new industry benchmark for cranktrain efficiency.
All engine bearings were engineered for reduced friction without compromising reliability. Diamond-Like Carbon Coating (DLC) has been used to reduce friction on the fuel pump tappets and a solid film lubricant has been used to coat the piston skirts. New engine oil has a lower viscosity, contributing to an extension in service intervals from 10,000 miles to 15,000 miles (or 12 months). Both V8 engines are now fitted with an electronic oil-level indicator for added peace of mind.
Unique, Jaguar sound quality
Sound quality is a key characteristic of all Jaguars and is one particular aspect that customers relish. With that in mind, Jaguar engineers have accentuated the acoustic feedback into the cabin in order to further enhance the driving pleasure.
The XK’s exhaust ‘sound track’ has been enhanced to provide a deeper and more powerful character that matches the increase in torque at low revs from the new engine. At higher engine speeds the intake acoustic feedback system combines with the exhaust system to provide more of that unique Jaguar sound quality character.
In addition to the fully active exhaust system in which valves open to provide a more rewarding note, the XKR has been engineered to provide an intake feedback system to enhance the V8 sound character commonly absent on supercharged engines. Intake manifold pressure pulsations are fed into an acoustic filter at the rear of the engine that is tuned to provide an edgy sports car ‘crescendo’ at high revs. The filter is controlled by the engine management system, which only allows the sound to enter the cabin under the appropriate driving conditions.
The new intake feedback system combined with the fully active exhaust system provides the most exhilarating aural experience yet delivered on a Jaguar.
Uprated six-speed transmission handles extra power
Any transmission is a major factor in delivering the performance that drivers desire, while integrating with the engine to optimise emissions and fuel consumption. Jaguar’s acclaimed electronically controlled, six-speed ZF 6HP28 transmission offers an unparalleled combination of driver control matched to virtually undetectable gearshifts. With control either from steering wheel-mounted paddles or full automatic mode via the JaguarDrive Selector™, the XK range delivers exhilarating performance. The supercharged V8 engine with 510PS and 625Nm of torque transmits power through an uprated version of the ZF 6HP28, additional clutch plates and an uprated torque converter having been added to the transmission to accommodate the extra power.
The transmission has a fully-adaptive shift system which delivers seamless gearshifts and balances performance and economy at all times. It also continually adapts to suit driving style, which can vary from sporting to more economical. Jaguar Sequential Shift™ suffers no torque interrupt, resulting in a smoother more powerful shift feel, and an almost instantaneous shift from the time the driver touches the shift paddle to the completion of the shift event.
The high levels of torque produced by the new engines make it possible for the torque converter lock-up feature of the transmission to function at low speeds, without slip. This approach provides an additional fuel consumption benefit, contributing to the official combined fuel economy of 23.0mpg (12.3 l/100km) in the XKR. The advanced design of the transmission also includes a torsional damper to absorb firing impulses from the engine, further smoothing the driveline. The transmission is designed to be maintenance-free with ‘filled-for-life’ fluid.
Active Differential Control for optimum grip in XKR
Another first for Jaguar is Active Differential Control (ADC), the final stage of the supercharged V8 driveline. Designed to give improved traction and dynamic stability, the electronically controlled differential continuously adapts to both the driver’s demands and the amount of grip available at each individual wheel.
Operated by an internal electric motor and ‘ball-and-ramp’ mechanism, the differential contains a multiplate clutch which transmits or ‘vectors’ torque to the wheel with most grip and therefore maximises the car’s traction. The multi-plate clutch assembly is designed to prevent excessive differential slip, but differs fundamentally from a conventional traction control system, which uses the brakes to counteract differential slip, after it has occurred.
JaguarDrive Selector™ completes the package
The latest XK range benefits from the innovative JaguarDrive Selector™ as its transmission control interface. First seen on the Jaguar XF saloon, the JaguarDrive Selector™ features a rotary shift control which rises into the driver’s hand as the car is started, to give intuitive, ergonomically efficient transmission control from a neat, space-efficient interface.
The selector is, in fact, much more than just an unobtrusive yet completely practical solution to selecting an automatic gear mode. It also imbues the car with a strong driver ‘handshake’ – get into an XK and the start button in front of the JaguarDrive Selector™ pulses red, like a heartbeat; press this button to start the engine and the cast alloy JaguarDrive Selector™ rises into the palm of your hand.
From there, automatic transmission functions are selected simply by turning the control with the fingertips. As an example, Drive to Drive Sport selection is accomplished with a simple push and turn action. Returning from S to D, the rotary control operates with spring-assistance, which eliminates the need to pull the Selector. It couldn’t be simpler. And when the engine is stopped, the JaguarDrive Selector™ returns automatically to its Park position.
Driving Dynamics
“The XK has always been an exceptional sports GT; now with huge reserves of power and torque, the XKR sets new standards of dynamic balance, succeeding in being both potent and rewarding yet balanced and accessible at the same time.”
Mike Cross, Chief Engineer, Vehicle Integrity
The ‘handshake’ of the JaguarDrive Selector™ is a subtle reminder of the XK’s further enhanced sporting character and superb dynamics, which combine to deliver a driving experience that is exceptionally exciting and rewarding. The latest generation of Adaptive Dynamics replaces Jaguar’s proven Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS) with an even more sophisticated solution. Active damper tuning systems remove many of the compromises of a passive damping system – which must make a single choice between softer damping for a comfortable ride and firmer damping for more tautly controlled handling.
CATS overcame that compromise with automatically switchable damping modes, adapting to the road and how the car was driven. But where CATS only offered two settings: ‘soft’ and ‘firm’, the new Adaptive Damping System in effect provides a continuously variable damping strategy between wide extremes, benefitting ride comfort, ultimate control handling and grip.
Its three primary functions are to control body vertical movement, roll rate and pitch rate. One hundred times a second, Adaptive Damping performs three critical functions: firstly, it analyses induced body motions and sets each damper to an appropriate level in order to maintain a constant and level body attitude – maximising control without compromising ride. Second, it also predicts the roll rate due to steering inputs and selectively increases damping forces to reduce roll – improving handling feel and driver confidence. And third, Adaptive Damping analyses fore and aft pitch rate due to throttle and braking inputs and again varies damping forces to reduce pitch – further improving comfort and control.
Additionally, Adaptive Dynamics improves ride quality by monitoring wheel position 500 times a second and automatically increasing damping rate as the suspension approaches the limits of its travel. Similarly it controls wheel ‘hop’ on uneven roads by varying damping to move any wheel out of its natural bouncing frequency.
From the cabin, the JaguarDrive Control™ interface allows the driver to interact with Adaptive Dynamics by selecting modes for different driving conditions and moods. In Dynamic Mode, Adaptive Dynamics increases body control for a sportier feel. Dynamic Mode also interacts with the engine ECU to give a more responsive accelerator pedal reaction and quicker gearshift responses.
Winter Mode was introduced on the XF and now makes its first appearance in the XK range, adding another element of dynamic subtlety. Where Dynamic Mode offers a more sporty feel, Winter Mode offers a more damped accelerator pedal response for progressive control in slippery conditions, with bespoke shift settings that delay and soften gearshifts, again for better control with low grip.
In keeping with its additional power and performance, the XKR offers the most sophisticated dynamic control of all, with Active Differential Control and Adaptive Dynamics. The subtle control strategies of these functions can be managed through the JaguarDrive Control™, which allows the driver to change the settings of the Adaptive Dynamics system, which then works in tandem with the Active Differential Control (ADC) – an electronically controlled alternative to the traditional mechanical differential.
Active Differential Control for precise driving
ADC is fully automatic and can vary its locking torque (and therefore the proportion of torque sent to each driven wheel) depending on surface conditions and power applied. Its subtle control strategies optimise traction at each wheel, improving acceleration on low-grip surfaces but also potentially improving stability when required.
Working with other systems such as traction control and the ABS braking function, ADC can significantly improve overall vehicle performance, and provide more precise driving feel.
While the less powerful XK models do not adopt the Active Differential Control of the XKR, they do still utilise a new upgraded mechanical differential, which delivers outstanding levels of grip and stability under power.
The Dynamic Stability Control system for the XK range has bespoke tuning and offers four driver-selectable modes, Normal, Winter, Trac DSC and DSC OFF on all models. Normal mode is ideal for everyday driving and is the default setting activated automatically on starting. The Winter mode is designed to improve drivability and confidence in more slippery conditions. Trac DSC mode is a sportier setting allowing the experienced driver fully to exploit the car’s performance and enjoy greater involvement in controlling it. DSC OFF allows the driver (where circumstances are appropriate) to switch the system’s electronic protection off completely, by pushing the DSC control button for 10 seconds.
User-friendly technology and driving aids
The new XK and XKR, in both coup̩ and convertible form, offer a number of other driver aids that exploit the latest advanced technology. Staying faithful to its well-established principles, Jaguar uses these technologies to empower, not overpower the user Рenhancing enjoyment rather than risking high-technology overkill.
Among the XK range’s practical features are intelligent front lighting incorporating bi-xenon automatic headlamps with power wash; dynamic headlamp levelling; corner lights that are activated by the direction indicators to improve visibility while cornering; and the option of Active Front Lighting. Standard equipment across the XK range also includes air sensors to optimise cabin air quality through the climate control system, keyless start, cruise control, electro-chromatic fold-back exterior mirrors, and front and rear Park Assist.
Safety
As well as the convertible’s hidden, automatic roll-over protection, every car in the XK range features Jaguar’s pedestrian deployable bonnet system (not fitted to Federal market cars). In the event of a collision with a pedestrian, the system raises the bonnet by 170mm in just 30 milliseconds to provide a clear space between the surface of the bonnet and the hard points underneath, to reduce the severity of injuries – particularly those to the head – while still allowing the new XK low bonnet line. An energy-absorbing bumper system also helps minimise lower leg injuries to pedestrians.
Jaguar’s Emergency Brake Assist is standard on the XK and Advanced Emergency Brake Assist is fitted to all models with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). Advanced Emergency Brake Assist uses the ACC radar to calculate distance from and speed of approach to the vehicle ahead and pre-charges the brake-line pressure to minimise impact speed if a collision is predicted – with an audible warning to the driver.
Every model in the XK range includes front, side and thorax airbags, incorporating new technology which reduces the load on the occupant’s body if the front airbag is deployed. Jaguar’s Adaptive Restraint Technology System checks for seat occupation and seatbelt use, seat position, and the direction and severity of any impact, and uses all that information to determine the appropriate level of airbag deployment in any incident. Additionally, Jaguar’s Protec front head restraint system can minimise whiplash in the event of a rear impact.
Equipment
In true, contemporary Jaguar fashion, a great deal of relevant and intuitive technology is controlled by the clear and elegant seven-inch Touch-screen in the centre console – which is standard on all models. The Touch-screen provides access and control for the Climate Control and Audio systems, for the Satellite Navigation System, for Bluetooth mobile connectivity, and for Jaguar’s Portable Audio Interface – which are all standard equipment. The satellite navigation system offers DVD mapping, postcode entry, and a traffic message channel. The Portable Audio Interface offers iPod connectivity, and the connection of other storage devices through a USB port, to the in-car sound system, with full Touch-screen control.
The audio system options for the XK range include single-slot or multi-disc CD changers and either Jaguar Premium Sound or the ultimate, a high-end Bowers & Wilkins system. The Bowers & Wilkins option is a 525-watt system with Dolby® ProLogic®II Surround Sound, three-channel stereo with unique amplifier, Kevlar mid-range speakers with high output and low distortion, and specially designed aluminium tweeters.
Depending on market, a number of Digital Radio options are available: HD radio is available for North American market cars, SDARS satellite radio for North America and Canada, and Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) is offered in selected European markets.
Ease of ownership
For all, their performance and luxury, the XK range is designed to be remarkably easy to live with. Both naturally aspirated and supercharged versions of the new 5.0-litre AJ-V8 Gen III engine offer extended service intervals – now at one year or 15,000 rather than 10,000 miles. All new XKs now feature oil quality and brake pad wear indicators, allowing those critical areas to be easily monitored on a regular basis by the driver. And in the event of an accident, bolt-on front and rear sections help to minimise repair costs.
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