Owners of the Jaguar XE SV Project 8 who want a more civil-looking version of the high-performance sedan can look forward to getting their hands on the new limited edition Touring specification pack. The kit was developed by Jaguar’s Special Vehicle Operations division, with production limited to just 15 examples worldwide. Just to remind you, only 300 units of the Project 8 were made.
What makes the Touring spec special, you ask? Only the fact that it’s still every bit the same monstrosity known as the Project 8. Those who find the adjustable carbon-fibre wing too showy for their incognito tastes can relish in the more discreet, fixed rear spoiler. Elsewhere, it’s just the same as the Project 8, which means it’s based on the pre-facelift XE.
The new Touring spec is also available for existing owners of the Project 8 (all of which were left-hand drive). Jaguar SVO will only hand-assemble 15 examples at its Technical Centre in Warwickshire, and the cars will exclusively be available in a four-seat configuration. The ultimate Q car comes in a range of colours, such as Valencia Orange, Velocity Blue, Corris Grey Satin and British Racing Green. Body decals are optional, too.
Mechanically, the XE SV Project 8 continues to be powered by a supercharged 5.0 litre V8 engine that produces an output of 600 PS. Power is routed through an eight-speed automatic transmission to an all-wheel drive system, allowing it to blow past the 100 km/h mark in 3.7 seconds, and onwards to an electronically limited top speed of 300 km/h. To compare, the uncapped Project 8 does the sprint in 3.3 seconds and maxes out at 322 km/h.
Currently, the Project 8 holds the production sedan lap records on three continents, particularly the Nürburgring Nordschleife, Dubai Autodrome and Laguna Seca circuits.
Jaguar SVO’s engineering director, Jamal Hameedi said: “Project 8 has received outstanding critical acclaim since its launch, demonstrating the SVO team’s ability to create a compact Jaguar sedan with supercar-rivalling performance. Touring specification extends the appeal of Project 8 to performance car enthusiasts and collectors who prefer a more discreet appearance, without compromising its driver-focused on-road dynamics.” Anyone a fan of the Project 8?
GALLERY: Jaguar XE SV Project 8
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The front is inspired by a colander isit?
Harry Metcalfe loves the Project 8 and owns one. But think he might prefer the big wing. I prefer the big wing too. It gives more sense of occasion. Hahah.