New Jaguar XJR combines power and comfort (pictures)

Jaguar signifies its high-performance vehicles with an R at the end of the model designation. The XJR comes out after a five-year hiatus for the performance version of the XJ, following the launch of the updated XJ model in 2011.

The XJ is Jaguar's flagship sedan, and the XJR variant sits at the absolute top of the model lineup.

For the R version, Jaguar paints the wire grille black and includes an aerodynamic splitter in front.

Vents in the hood denote the supercharged engine.

The R version is called out on the chrome fender ornaments.

The 5-liter V-8 engine, with its supercharger, puts out 550 horsepower. The carbon fiber engine cover is an option.

20-inch wheels come standard on the XJR. The design is made specifically for this model.

XJ models feature this panel in the C-pillars that Jaguar describes as wraparound sunglasses.

The XJR features quad tailpipes, while the flowing taillights are standard for the XJ model.

The trunk lid sits up high on its struts when open, allowing better trunk access.

The interior of the XJR features a variety of carbon fiber trim and metal switchgear.

The seats feature bolstering designed to keep passengers in place during fast cornering.

The rear seats offer a lot of legroom, but the driver's seat is the place to be.

Jaguar uses virtual gauges rendered on an LCD for the instrument cluster. The graphics look a little flat.

One nice effect with the LCD is that it turns red when you put the car in its Dynamic mode.

The tachometer gets replaced with voice command instructions temporarily when you hit the voice command button.

The touch-screen infotainment center comes standard in the XJR.

Hard-drive-based maps are not particularly elegant, but they show useful information, such as traffic.

The Bluetooth phone system includes integration with a paired phone's contact list.

The XJR comes with the typical array of digital music sources, but no online music capability.

The included Meridian audio system delivers excellent clarity.