Jaguar has breathed a little more life into its supercharged V8 saloon with the new XFR Speed Pack. This proves unequivocally that the Brits are still not averse to a trans-Atlantic power struggle with the Germans.
The Jaguar XFR Speed Pack is mostly a refinement to the existing XFR, but under the metal the XFR now also features a speed limiter raised to 280 km/h, up from the regular 250 km/h, as well as a new 8-speed automatic gearbox. We do like the prospect of what a benefits a new 8-speed gearbox will bring to XFR’s refinement and economy.
The supercharged 5.0-litre V8, with 375 kW and 625 Nm, remains, but there the gearbox has been recalibrated to accommodate the higher top speed. A great looking and new front splitter, with dark matte detailing, as well as a new rear wing, distinguish the XFR Speed Pack from a regular XFR. (Here is a video of the standard Jaguar XFR done by our regular contributor Ray Leathern.)
The XFR Speed Pack was unveiled at the Moscow Motor Show along with news of the British manufacturers’ new, all-wheel drive, technology and the news that the normally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 is being replaced by a supercharged V6 engine making similar power. The pricing for the XFR Speed Pack comes in at £2 750 or roughly R38 000 in a direct currency conversion.
We think its money well spent for the justifiable spruce up of gaining an 8-speed automatic gearbox, as well as engine stop/start technology, which is said to yield sizeable improvements in fuel economy and CO2 emissions. Jaguar Land Rover South Africa have confirmed that the Speed Pack will be available in South Africa in December, by which time pricing will have been finalised.
