Jaguar XKR-S

Not since the XJ220 supercar in 1992 has Jaguar produced a car as hardcore as the XKR-S.

Based on the standard XKR coupe, the hottest model in the range is more capable than ever before. The 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine has been given a boost in power to 542bhp, thanks to a revised ECU and exhaust system. Torque has been increased as well, and the result is a car that can accelerate from 0-62mph in only 4.4 seconds.

But it’s not all about straight-line speed with the Jaguar, as updates to the suspension components and set-up mean it is more precise than before.

It still suffers from a lack of traction, though, so turning off the electronic driver aids is not for the faint-hearted. The XKR-S is more of a roadgoing GT than an out-and-out track car, but if you do switch off the traction control, its playful chassis allows you to adjust the car’s attitude in corners using the throttle. So you can indulge in powerslides at will.

On the road, the supple suspension does its best to cushion occupants from imperfections, despite the huge 20-inch alloys. Jaguar has hit the right note with the styling, too. The LED daytime running lights (also found on other XKs), aggressive front bumper, air scoops above the grille and large wheelarches, sills and rear wing complete its sporty appearance.

So why does such a talented machine finish in eighth place? Well, good though the XKR-S undoubtedly is, the XKR is almost as fun – and costs nearly £18,500 less. That makes the latest model an expensive, if hugely talented, luxury.