Facelifted Jaguar XKR debuts at Detroit Auto Show

Jaguar has updated its XK Coupe, Convertible and performance XKR range for the 2010 model year, and will showcase the new lineup at this month’s Detroit Auto Show. With all-new engines, revised styling, a new interior, an advanced lightweight aluminum body structure and a wider range of models, the updated XK range has reached a new level of performance and luxury that should allow it to keep up with its rivals in the upmarket GT segment.

The flagship model of the range is once again the XKR sports model, which for 2010 sports a new supercharged 5.0L AJ-V8 Gen III engine generating 510hp and 461lb-ft of torque. This same unit also powers the new XF-R performance saloon, which you can read about by clicking here.

All models are electronically limited to a maximum speed of 155mph, but the 0-60mph sprint for the XKR Coupe is reduced from 4.9 to 4.6 seconds. Despite the extra displacement and performance, fuel-economy is comparable to the previous generation of XKR and carbon-emissions are actually 1% better than the older 4.2L mill. Jaguar claims the car has an average consumption of 23mpg and a CO2 rating of 292g/km – 16 and 17% better, respectively, than the equivalent figures for the BMW M6.

Drive is sent to the rear wheels via an updated six-speed ZF 6HP28 transmission, controlled with either steering wheel-mounted paddles or full automatic mode via the JaguarDrive Selector. The transmission is also paired with an advanced electronic differential on the XKR model.

Visual changes to the car include a new front bumper design, new LED rear lights and a new lower rear bumper spoiler. Other details include chrome-detailed inserts and further chrome detailing to the upper mesh grille, plus a subtle rear spoiler.

Also new are the 19in wheels, which sport a 10-fan-spoke Artura design. These are joined by optional 20in wheels, which come in two different designs.

Inside, there is 10-way seat adjustment for both driver and passenger seats, with heating and memory functions as standard and a unique "R" seat style. Upgrade to the optional R Performance interior, and the car is fitted with 16-way adjustable seats with heating and memory functions, and adjustable side bolsters.

The door casings are even more luxuriously crafted than before, with saddle-stitched lines and a new 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.

A touchscreen central monitor 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 first cars are expected to hit showrooms in the middle of the year.