2011 Jaguar XKR Special Edition

Jaguar creates another special edition of an already pretty special car.

It’s hard to imagine ways to improve the sexy, speedy Jaguar XKR, but Jaguar seems to think it can. As proof, it has developed two option packages for the new 2011 XKR: the Black Pack and the Speed Pack. Check both boxes, and you get the 2011 XKR Special Edition.




The optional Speed Pack starts with a less-restrictive top-speed governor, raising terminal velocity to 174 mph from 155 (both electronically limited). No changes have been made to the direct-injection engine. Styling changes include a new front splitter, side-sill extensions, a body-color rear diffuser, a taller rear spoiler, and chrome-finished hood nostrils and window trim. Red brake calipers are visible within spokey 20-inch “Kasuga” wheels that bear a strong resemblance to those on the Bentley Continental Speed. Finally, the Speed Pack can only be ordered on cars rendered in Ultimate Black, Polaris White, Salsa Red, Liquid Silver, Lunar Grey, Kyanite Blue, or Spectrum Blue.



The Black Pack adds black 20-inch “Kalimnos” wheels; black side vents, grillework, and window surrounds; and optional “XKR” body graphics that sweep along the sides like those historically used on certain special-edition Porsches. Like the Speed Pack, the Black Pack also offers red brake calipers, which contrast nicely against the black wheels. Inside, the Black Pack comes with dark charcoal leather only, with a choice of piping and grain options, and Dark Oak, Dark Mesh Aluminum, or Piano Black trim. The color palette for the Black Pack is even more limited than that of the Speed Pack, including only Ultimate Black, Polaris White, or Salsa Red.



The 2011 XKR Special Edition is shown here in white with piano-black veneers and fitted luggage, including an accessory suitcase that fits where the spare tire might otherwise be. It makes its debut at the Geneva auto show.



But here’s the bad news: This frisky feline will not be offered in the U.S., and Jaguar is non-committal about which, if any, of the option-package features detailed above will be available here either. But Jaguar did tell us this: “Although Jaguar North America will not be taking this exact special edition model, we are looking at a North America–only, performance-oriented limited-edition Jaguar XKR in support of our 75th anniversary celebrations this year.” Sounds promising.






BY STEVE SILER, PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATRICK M. HOEY AND THE MANUFACTURER
www.caranddriver.com