Taking it to the track

From 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Gaudin Jaguar will host the world-renowned Jaguar Performance Driving Academy. Race car drivers Davy Jones, Roberto Guerrero and Margy Eatwell will unveil the 2015 Jaguar F-Type R Coupe for the first time in Nevada.

“We thank the Jaguar Academy for helping us create this event,” Gaudin General Manager Jim Mooradian said. “Having them come to the dealership with the R Coupe is a first. This is a unique opportunity for the public to meet these amazing drivers and see the latest in sports car technology and design.”

The Jaguar Performance Driving Academy will hold half- and full-day driving programs at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The attendees will learn skid pad, auto-cross and open road track racing with the race drivers sitting next to them the entire time. Often at speeds more than 100 mph.

“It is so much fun,” one recent attendee said, “But with all the seat time, you are mentally and physically exhausted at the end of the day.”

The F-Type Coupe will be available this summer in three power-train options — two V-6s and a V-8. The V-6s are identical to those in the F-Type convertible, offering 340 horsepower in the base car and 380 hp in the S Coupe.

The performance is zero to 60 mph in 5.1 and 4.8 seconds, with a top speed of 161 and 171, respectively. The R Coupe sports 550 hp an a zero to 60 mph in four seconds.

A single cold-formed aluminum stamping creates the body of the Coupe. A single high-strength hydroformed aluminum beam links the windshield pillar with the rear pillar. It is available with either an aluminum or glass roof.

The Coupe’s most commented-on feature is the sport-tuned exhaust that starts as a purr and explodes into a growl as you hit the gas. A free ring tone of the Jaguar “Growler” is available at www.gaudinjaguar.com

Prices start at $65,000 and $99,000 for the R Coupe. Gaudin Jaguar is taking orders for delivery this summer.

The event is open to the public with required RSVP to 702-284-7000.