Like the Mercedes the S-Type R uses an automatic transmission only, equipped with a variation of Jaguar's famous J-gate shifter set up for quick actuation. Its effortless operation makes intervals between all six of its forward gears barely perceptible and launches so smoothly that a dash to 100 km/h is almost an anticlimax. While the Jaguar is expectantly quiet inside a resonant V8 exhaust growl joined by the intense whine of the blower can be detected under full acceleration.
Fortunately it's braking is equally impressive. Its 4-wheel Brembo discs and calipers with ABS and emergency braking assist, taking control in panic situations, can stop it from 113 km/h (70 mph) in a brief 51.1 m (169 ft). While it might be difficult to comprehend how impressive this figure is, consider that it brakes equally to the sprightly Mini Cooper S that weighs a considerable 585 kg (1,290 lb) less.
A new feature I especially like is the electronic parking brake, operated via an attractive chrome switch-like lever appropriately mounted on the lower console and likewise activated by pulling upward in the traditional manner - unlike the BMW 7-Series that positions its electronic parking brake on the left side of the dash. What's more it will disengage automatically when the transmission is shifted out of park and then reapplied when the ignition key is removed.
The standard S-Type is a formidable handler but the S-Type R is in a class of very few. Complimenting the fully independent suspension is Jaguar's CATS (Computer Active Technology Suspension) system. A program in the CPU continually adjusts suspension settings to maximize performance. The result is ridiculously tenacious grip over almost any road surface without upsetting the Jag's traditionally balmy ride. The power-assisted, speed-sensitive, variable-ratio rack-and-pinion steering is direct without being unnerving, tracking the sizable front 245/40 ZR18 and rear 275/35 ZR18 tires with the utmost of straight line stability. Both traction control and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) are included to optimize at the limit safety. Beautifully detailed Zeus 18 x 8-in front and 18 x 9.5-in rear 5-spoke alloy wheels ride that fine line between aggressive and elegant, typifying the S-Type R's character.
Fortunately it's braking is equally impressive. Its 4-wheel Brembo discs and calipers with ABS and emergency braking assist, taking control in panic situations, can stop it from 113 km/h (70 mph) in a brief 51.1 m (169 ft). While it might be difficult to comprehend how impressive this figure is, consider that it brakes equally to the sprightly Mini Cooper S that weighs a considerable 585 kg (1,290 lb) less.
A new feature I especially like is the electronic parking brake, operated via an attractive chrome switch-like lever appropriately mounted on the lower console and likewise activated by pulling upward in the traditional manner - unlike the BMW 7-Series that positions its electronic parking brake on the left side of the dash. What's more it will disengage automatically when the transmission is shifted out of park and then reapplied when the ignition key is removed.
The standard S-Type is a formidable handler but the S-Type R is in a class of very few. Complimenting the fully independent suspension is Jaguar's CATS (Computer Active Technology Suspension) system. A program in the CPU continually adjusts suspension settings to maximize performance. The result is ridiculously tenacious grip over almost any road surface without upsetting the Jag's traditionally balmy ride. The power-assisted, speed-sensitive, variable-ratio rack-and-pinion steering is direct without being unnerving, tracking the sizable front 245/40 ZR18 and rear 275/35 ZR18 tires with the utmost of straight line stability. Both traction control and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) are included to optimize at the limit safety. Beautifully detailed Zeus 18 x 8-in front and 18 x 9.5-in rear 5-spoke alloy wheels ride that fine line between aggressive and elegant, typifying the S-Type R's character.