2011 KTM X-BOW R Model WallpaperThe Austrian geniuses behind the super-exotic KTM X-Bow have raised the bar on kart-like performance once again. For 2011, KTM will add a new trim designation and two new option packages, and squeeze more horsepower out of its track-biased model's four-cylinder powerplant. The X-Bow R will ratchet up the astonishingly tactile performance delivered by the stock X-Bow (read: cross-bow), which weighs 1750 pounds and features a 240-horsepower 2.0-liter four cylinder engine sourced from Volkswagen. The upgraded engine will mimic the performance of the Audi S3, and will increase horsepower to an even 300. KTM claims that lower engine positioning will also produce flatter, more refined handling.
To further boost the X-Bow's performance, KTM will offer a strictly track-based option package as well as a road-legal package. The X-Bow R shown here is testing at the Nürburgring, bedecked in full race-spec. While no specs were released, we have to imagine that the R moniker will dial up white-hot performance from the X-Bow. For some perspective, we clocked a 3.9 second 0-to-60 mph time for the 240-horse X-Bow in our test of the X-Bow last year. Unfortunately, the Austrian brand still has no plans to offer the X-Bow or the X-Bow R for street-legal sale in the United States, but they are available for import as track models. But unless you're a dedicated racer, you'll have to admire the X-Bow from afar, or enjoy the 2.0-liter four's performance in the shell of an existing Volkswagen or Audi product.
To further boost the X-Bow's performance, KTM will offer a strictly track-based option package as well as a road-legal package. The X-Bow R shown here is testing at the Nürburgring, bedecked in full race-spec. While no specs were released, we have to imagine that the R moniker will dial up white-hot performance from the X-Bow. For some perspective, we clocked a 3.9 second 0-to-60 mph time for the 240-horse X-Bow in our test of the X-Bow last year. Unfortunately, the Austrian brand still has no plans to offer the X-Bow or the X-Bow R for street-legal sale in the United States, but they are available for import as track models. But unless you're a dedicated racer, you'll have to admire the X-Bow from afar, or enjoy the 2.0-liter four's performance in the shell of an existing Volkswagen or Audi product.