Jaguar’s newest model, the XF sedan, will soon have its own performance variant in the XF-R, a track-tuned V8-powered sports saloon. It’s already been spotted undergoing development trials at various locations around Europe, however on Friday it made its most public appearance in front of the crowds at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed.

The final form of the XF-R is fairly obvious beneath that thin black vinyl mask and aside from some larger apertures in the front fascia, those bonnet vents and a lower ride height, the XF-R looks very similar to its less athletic sister, the XF. Underneath that bonnet, however, should be a world of difference.

The XF-R is widely believed to have a 5-litre V8 boasting some 373kW under its snout, and judging from the short video below of the XF-R prototype powersliding its way up the narrow driveway at Goodwood, it’d be safe to say that all of that power is being channeled to the rear wheels. Tech specs are still top-secret at the moment, however word is that all will be revealed at the London motor show later this month, where the XF-R is expected to make its debut.

[Images and video: Triple7, PistonHeads]