Blown R leads S Jags for 2002

28 December 2001: An all-new supercharged 4.2 litre S-TYPE R - the most powerful Jaguar saloon ever - and a new 2.5 litre V6 entry model spearhead the launch of an extended and refined S-TYPE range, now eight models strong.

All variants feature a completely redesigned interior, including optional touch-screen telematics displays and class-leading occupant safety systems.

A new six-speed ZF automatic transmission — an industry first in the executive segment — is available across the new S-TYPE range. The new engines are a 2. 5 AJ-V6 engine developing 201bhp, and larger capacity 4.2 AJ-V8 available in both 300bhp (normally aspirated)and 400bhp (supercharged) forms. There’s an all-new front suspension and extensively revised rear suspension.

The S-TYPE's launch in 1999 marked the beginning of a major transformation for Jaguar. Following the launch, the company's worldwide sales virtually doubled and S-TYPE sales to date have exceeded 135,000 cars.

Leading the radically revised S-TYPE line-up is Jaguar ’s most powerful saloon yet, the S-TYPE R. With 400 horsepower on tap, it does zero to 60mph in 5.3 seconds

The S-TYPE R is equipped with sports suspension, race-engineered Brembo brakes and the latest generation of Jaguar’s Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS) enhanced for improved stability and comfort. CATS now automatically switches the rear dampers slightly ahead of the front pair at low speed to reduce transient understeer. At high speed, the system automatically switches the front dampers ahead of the rears to increase transient understeer for improved stability.

The car’s interior features leather-trimmed R Performance steering wheel and sports seats, which are 16-way adjustable, with memory on the driver’s seat. The new-look S-TYPE fascia and door casings are finished in distinctive, grey bird’s-eye maple veneers.

At the other end of the range, the new 2.5 litre V6 model has a power output of 201bhp. Standard specification includes bronze-coloured bird ’s-eye maple veneers and leather gear knob, automatic dual-zone climate control, electrically adjustable seats (6 way driver, 4 way passenger)&steering column, electronic Parking Brake, automatic headlamp activation, dynamic stability control, with traction control and anti-lock brakes, including a new panic-assist feature and 16-inch 'Helios' alloy wheels with an optional 17 x 7.5 inch 'Sport 'alloy wheel.

The established 3.0 litre AJ-V6 engine delivers 240bhp and features improved three-stage variable geometry induction and continuously Variable Cam Phasing systems for faster engine response and enhanced refinement.

The new 300bhp 4.2 litre AJ-V8 engine develops seven per cent more power and eight percent more torque than the previous 4. 0 litre power unit. At the same time fuel economy and emissions are also improved.

The S-TYPE Sport is available with a choice of two V6 engines: the 2.5 litre V6 (201bhp) and the 3.0 litre V6 (240bhp). Distinguishing features include leather sports seats with eight-way power adjustment for driver (six-way for front passenger), leather sports steering wheel, ‘de-chromed’ exterior details, sports suspension with uprated springs and dampers, 5-speed Getrag manual gearbox, larger ventilated front brake discs, unique-design 17 x 7.5 inch ‘Herakles ’alloy wheels.

In the UK, the 2.5 V6 will cost EUR 38,576, while the range-topper 4.2 V8 R will set owners back EUR 74,296. No Irish prices or availability are yet known. BB