Jaguar has unveiled its fastest ever production car since its mighty XJ220 supercar.

The XKR-S is based on the standard Jaguar XKR, but a series of enhancements boost its performance and improve its focus as a drivers' car.

The supercharged engine produces 420bhp, the ECU recalibrated to allow the XKR-S to reach a maximum of 174mph and sprint to 62mph in just 5.2 seconds.

Although there's no boost in power, Jaguar promises that the 200 limited series run of XKR-S models will provide their drivers with greater thrills behind the wheel.

To achieve this, Jaguar's engineers have completely recalibrated the XKR's acclaimed CATS active suspension system.

It's not just the suspension that's been enhanced either, Jaguar's stylists adding a new front splitter, a larger rear spoiler and side sill extensions.

Ensuring that the new Jaguar has a suitably menacing growl to match its more focussed, hardcore character is an active exhaust that allows its 4.2-litre supercharged V8 to be heard better under heavy throttle loads.

With all that extra performance potential Jaguar has also fitted uprated brakes behind the 20-inch lightweight alloy wheels.

The interior gets a makeover too, soft grain leather with contrasting stitching and piano black veneers marking the XKR-S out as a special model.

Only 200 will be built for customers in Europe, and if you want it in any other colour than black, tough - Jaguar is only offering its fastest XK in Ultimate Black. Fitting really...

Source: http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/05032008/36/fastest-jaguar-xk-revealed-0.html