Jaguar XKR: headed for the Race Track

All-new Jaguar XKR is headed for the race track next year. The Jag is set to run in the FIA GT3 European Championship endurance series. In said racing competition, XKR will be competing against racing Porsche 911 and GT3 and Aston Martin DBR9.

Earlier, Apex Apex Motorsport has formulated all-new XKR GT3 in Jaguar factory. Stuart Dyble of Jaguar said, "There's a great buzz surrounding the XKR and this GT3 programme is going to reinforce the sporting credentials of the XK range. We're very pleased that Apex shares our view that its lightweight body structure is an ideal platform for the series." Dave Ward, team manager of the company added, "The basic all-aluminium chassis is already immensely rigid, so we're confident that with the addition of the roll cage it will be amongst the best in class."

GT3 Jaguar XKR interior parts incorporated the 4.2-litre supercharged V8, which boasts more than the ordinary car's 420bhp. Nevertheless, Apex is determined to increase power for more driving confidence and reliability. XKR GT3 is running in endurance races. Jaguar team intends to compete in all six championship events. Also, the car is also expected to race in Australian Grand Prix scheduled in March next year.

The very first test run for Jaguar's new race car will take place in December. It will be performed before the official FIA GT3 European Championship tests early next year. At present, Apex anticipates to build cars for several racing teams. The company is expected to supply a minimum of 6 XKR racers.

XKR GT3 comes from the XK series produced by Jaguar, a British automaker. It was introduced for the 1997 model year as a replacement of the XJS.

In the past, there are several limited-edition XKRs that have been manufactured to mark milestones in Jaguar history. The first was the 2001 XKR Silverstone that featured a platinum paint finish and custom interior. It was followed by XKR 100 in 2002. The car featured an anthracite paint finish, Brembo brakes, 20-inch modular wheels and custom interior. Next to XKR 100 is the XKR Portfolio, which was built in 2004. Finally, a new milestone will be etched in the XKR Jaguar history and it is the coming of the XKR GT3. The car is expected to amaze the crown on the race track.