After a couple of months getting to know my 'new' xkr, the torque of this beast always overwhelms the traction / TC from dead stop if trying to launch her harder in any mode (other than disabling the TC completely). With tires in good condition and correct air pressure, what is the best technique to launch the xkr?

 

I thought best method was with traction ON , But stand to be corrected

 

I do it the easy way..... TRAC DSC, then use a "slow" throttle depression; a linear application of foot-to-skinny that takes about a second, about when the 1 - 2 shift occurs I'm at WOT. Of course it all depends on the surface and tire condition.

 

For my XK the best launch is when I use the electric brake, would imagine it is the same in the XKR. Come to a stop, engage brake, place foot over throttle and then give it hell. The brake auto-releases at even a small tap of the throttle.

It is a very good launch with or without traction control, although with traction control you need to ramp the throttle, you just can't floor it but you can come close!

 

Would that work on the 4.2 models too??

 

Downhill?

 

The car is crazy back end comes out and loads of tyre spin

 

and you pay extra for that!

 

Give it a try and let me know!!! I have never owned a 4.2 so have no definitive answer.

That and a tailwind...

 

The best results I have had on the drag strip are by using snow mode so that it pulls away in 2nd gear and TRAC DSC. If I try and pull away in 1st I get too much wheel spin so drop half a second on the standing quarter. On a bad run I am still wheel spinning 1/3 of the way down the track!

The type of tyres you use makes a big difference. The factory standard Dunlop Sports Maxx's that came on my car were like driving on ice. Once I switched to Michelin Pilot Sport 4s's I had a lot more confidence in the car which enabled me to boost the power. I am not sure if it is just because it is winter here but they feel like they are starting to go off a bit now. When I bought them they were phenomenal.