To distinguish its 2006 lineup at a glance from the 2005 edition that received a major overhaul, Jaguar has created stylish new chrome mesh inserts in the grille for its sedans, which overall, maintain the same outside profile they have had for years. Our test-drive S-TYPE R, the high performance top-of-the-line S-TYPE, also received a boost in horsepower and extra grip for better braking power. The changes helped make an already exceedingly exciting car even more fun to drive, but it is still a thoroughbred that can be totally appreciated only on a closed road race track. It jumps to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds, has its top speed capped at 155 mph (where can anyone legally go that fast on a public road in the United States?) and handles just as well driving at triple digit speeds as it does at legal speed limits. (OK, it wasn’t legal but I wanted to find out.) The ride retains elegance with Jaguar’s Computer Active Technology Suspension, which at high speeds shifts the dampers from “soft” to “firm” in milliseconds to maintain control and stability in sharp turns or while braking. At lower speeds it adjusts rear dampers first to conquer corners sharply with no understeer. The S-Type competes with the Audi A6, BMW 5 series, Mercedes E-Class and Lexus GS. The base price of the S-TYPE R increased $5,000 this year, mostly by making standard the Navigation System, which cost $4,600 as an option in 2005. Ford, which owns Jaguar, has said it will curtail production of its models to help make the company profitable and the luxury, midsize sedans, like the three S-TYPE trims, have been among the company’s most popular rear wheel drive vehicles. Variable Camshaft Phasing reduces noise and increases reliability, allowing the S-TYPE R to get at least 86% peak torque beginning at 2,000 rpm to top engine speed. For 2006 a new Conti-Teves four-channel anti-lock braking system using Brembo race-inspired brakes with 18-inch wheels, shortens braking distance, according to Jaguar. Emergency Brake Assist, which recognizes an emergency braking situation, automatically applies extra pressure to achieve maximum braking power. Our test drive added adaptive cruise control for $2,000 that allowed us to stay behind the vehicle in front at any of four possible pre-selected distances. When the car in front slowed down, so did we - automatically. When it sped up, so did we - automatically to the speed set on the cruise control. Special leather, birds eye maple wood trim, chrome accents and bolstered seats make the interior attractive, comfortable and worthy of the Jaguar name and hood ornament.