"The S-Type R is nothing less than a fire-breathing, ground-pounding, GS430-stomping, tire-smoking sport sedan fueled by a supercharged V8 cranking out a whopping 390 hp, all wrapped in a sleek package that is unmistakably Jaguar. You could spend $20,000 more on an AMG E55, but why?
For all practical purposes, the S-Type R isn’t even a luxury sedan at all. Unlike the compromising Lexus GS430, the S-Type R goes for the throat in what can only be called an all-out performance sedan. Similar to the BMW 540i in execution but with a less stern end result, the S-Type R is able to dispense this pavement scorching performance in a rather effortless manner. The R can reach 60 mph from a dead stop in just over 5 seconds, but the car never loses its composure. The V8 configuration of this car gives it adequate torque off the line, while the supercharger delivers rocket like acceleration at higher RPMs. Stab the gas at 3500 RPM, the supercharger whines aggressively, and the R leaps forward with all the verve and authority of a jet-fighter at take-off. The 6-speed automatic works well with this engine, never “hunting” or hesitating when the accelerator is stomped upon. Under hard acceleration, up-shifts are firm and precise. Downshifts are somewhat noticeable, but never annoying. A sport mode can be selected, which delays up-shifting in order maximize power."
