Jaguar introduced the S-Type R in 2002 as a direct competitor for the BMW M5 and the Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG and upgraded it in 2004 for the 2005 model-year.
Jaguar introduced the S-Type range in 1999 and, by 2004, it was ready for a facelift. Moreover, the introduction of the new Euro 4 emission standards forced the British carmaker to improve its engines, and the R-version received a few tweaks as well.

The carmaker enhanced the front of the car with a new apron that lost the fog lights but gained on the aerodynamic look. On the sides, the S-Type R featured specific side sills, while in the back, it received a new bumper. A lip-spoiler decorated the redesigned trunk lid. It’s chromed slat that spread between the taillights showed the Jaguar lettering broader than on the non-facelifted version.

Inside, the British carmaker already had some upgrades on the way since 2003. They included a new touch-screen infotainment system. That led to fewer buttons on the center stack and a clean design. Moreover, the carmaker installed a few buttons on the steering wheel to help the driver controlling the audio and phone system.

Under the hood, Jaguar changed the settings for the supercharged 4.2-liter V-8 engine to lower its emissions while managing to provide the same performances as the non-facelifted version.