2006 Jaguar S-Type R

When they delivered the New Radiance Red 2006 Jaguar S-Type R to me, I knew right away it was going to be fun. I love red cars and especially when they are expensive European Sport sedans ($66,180). For 2006, the Jaguar S-Type R gets a new chrome-mesh grille insert, an improved braking system and optional satellite radio and Bluetooth connectivity. After watching BMW and Mercedes have all the fun with their Motorsport-tuned 5 Series (the M5) and AMG-bolstered E-Class (the E55), Jaguar finally jumped into the fray with the S-Type R midsize sport sedan. Fortified with a supercharged V8, it's one of the fastest Jaguar cars ever produced. It may seem a bit out of character for such a traditional brand, but Jaguar's success in racing dates back many decades, so it only seems fitting that its production models would show a little bit more of the company's competitive spirit. Nearly every aspect of the Jaguar S-Type R was reengineered to answer to a higher power, that power being its 4.2-liter supercharged V8 engine that produces 400 horsepower. With its standard six-speed automatic transmission, the S-Type R can rocket to 60 miles per hour in a scant 5.3 seconds and attain an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. High-performance Brembo brakes help it slow down from such blinding speeds and a sport suspension enhanced with Jaguar's Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS) system keeps it under control in even the most demanding conditions. As I test drove the R up Highway 74 from Morrison to Evergreen I was thoroughly impressed with the performance and handling of this sporty cat.

Owing to its luxury roots, nearly every type of comfort and convenience feature comes standard, including power-adjustable sport seats, a DVD-based navigation system, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, 18-inch alloy wheels, an active suspension, power-adjustable pedals, a leather-wrapped performance steering wheel, front and rear parking sensors, bird's eye maple wood trim, automatic dual-zone climate control, HID headlights and a 320-watt Alpine audio system.

Bathed in real bird's eye maple wood trim and sumptuous leather, the S-Type R interior has few competitors when it comes to outright opulence. The sporty gray wood trim gives these Jaguar cars a less traditional look in tune with their hot-rod image. As in other luxury sedans, the cabin features a central touchscreen system that controls the stereo, climate, DVD navigation and telephone features, which I never did figure out.

The 2006 Jaguar S-Type R is a real thrill ride. Between its explosive V8, taut handling, hefty steering and powerful brakes, the S Type R is the kind of sedan that makes you seek out every twist and turn.