A little over 18 months after the XKR-S was launched, it’s time for the XF to seize its moment in the spotlight. Powered by the same 542bhp supercharged AJ-V8 5.0-litre engine, the XFR-S will take the fight to BMW’s M5, which until now has been the most powerful executive saloon on sale.

Unsurprisingly, Jaguar describe the XFR-S as “the fastest and most powerful saloon Jaguar has ever produced” and becomes the second model in the ultra-high performance R-S range that builds on the already acclaimed XFR (coupé and cabriolet).

As with the XKR-S, Jaguar’s designers have taken the opportunity to pursue a more extrovert style than is usual for the brand, blending exposed carbon fibre with a series of aerodynamic scoops and air intakes, designed to channel more air into its supercharged engine and reduce lift at speed.

Unfortunately, for those of us who admire the elegant simplicity of the regular XF saloon, the prototype XFR-S has been seen pounding around the Nürburgring with a whopping great spoiler affixed to its rear – that and the French Racing Blue paintwork of the show car, should leave you in no doubt that the XFR-S is no shrinking violet. Expect a suitably thunderous exhaust roar to accompany the new R-S Jag’s aggressive looks.

Joining the XFR-S at the Los Angeles Auto Show will be the all-new Jaguar F-TYPE, for the first time shown in Black Pack performance trim, and also the all-new 2013 Range Rover. The show runs from November 28th until December 9th.

F-Type jaguar LA auto show R-S range rover xf XKR-S