 |
| The supercharged 400 horsepower S-Type R is new for 2003. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
The biggest news for the 2003 S-Type stable is the production, though limited, of the S-Type R, a supercharged, 400 horsepower super sedan that will no doubt give BMW M-Class and Mercedes AMG vehicles a run for their substantial money. Exclusive features on the R include a mesh wire front grille, rear spoiler, a unique front air intake and distinct rear bumper compared to the other two the base 3.0 and mid-priced 4.2 models in the 2003 stable. The V6 3.0 model returns with a five-speed manual transmission.
Replacing last year's 281-horsepower 4.0-litre V8 powered S-Type 4.0 is the S-Type 4.2, with a 300 horsepower V8. All V8s come with a six-speed automatic tranny, optional on the 3.0. Every S-Type gets a retuned suspension and adds an antiskid system to standard traction control and antilock four-wheel disc brakes.
 |
| The 300-hp strong upgraded V8 in the S-Type 4.2 provides more than enough power. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
My tester was the S-Type 4.2, and despite not having a super-charged engine, the smooth, strong and subtle new V8 provided more than enough power.
