Image: KTM
Image: KTM
Image: KTM
KTM is releasing the X-Bow GT-XR to act as a road-going version of its GT2 racer. The track-focused vehicle with a license plate was designed with a Batmobile-caliber canopy and is marketed as the “most uncompromising super sports car for the street.”
The GT-XR has a large fuel tank that can hold 96 litres of fuel and an impressive dry weight of just 1,250 kilograms, giving it a range similar to that of a diesel vehicle up to 621 miles (1 000 km). That aforementioned canopy is electrically operated and even has a soft-close function like the doors and boots of a luxury car. Of course, it goes without saying that the vehicle is driven by the rear-wheels and a limited-slip differential ensures the best possible power delivery.
Image: KTM
The 2.5 TFSI engine from Audi is the heart of the KTM X-Bow GT-XR. In this configuration, the turbocharged inline-five generates a healthy 581 N.m of torque at 5 550 rpm and 368 kW at 6 350 rpm, which is significantly more than what you get on an RS3 or TT RS that also employs the motor. The Volkswagen Group (DQ500) also makes the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
It has a top speed of 280 km/h and takes just 3,4 seconds to accelerate from stationery to 100 km/h. In addition, KTM offers the option of fitting the GT-XR with a hydraulic lifting system at the front axle to prevent damage to the underside in precarious situations. The most recent X-Bow is connected to the tarmac via 235/35 R19 up front and 295/35 R20 OZ Racing wheels at the rear which undoubtedly helps put its power down.
Image: KTM
Sachs dampers are used in the suspension, and the front and rear ride heights can both be altered by the driver. However, weight distribution is 44:56 front to rear, according to KTM, and ceramic brakes are an extra expense. The two bucket seats inside the vehicle, which have a full carbon fibre body that has been hand-painted, have screens that display the images taken by the side cameras that replace the mirrors.
The Audi-powered GT-XR is produced at the same Graz factory where previous X-Bow derivatives were made, costing €284,900 (just under R5 million) before options. These include stainless steel exhaust system silencers, catalytic converters, and centre-locking wheels. However, the new flavour of X-Bow will be uncommon to see on public roads because the Austrian factory only produces about 100 of them yearly.
Keyword: KTM X-Bow GT-XR debuts as a road legal track toy with Audi power