KTM X-Bow GT-XR Is a 493-Horsepower Monster on a Low Carb Diet

The KTM X-Bow GT-XR is meant to be a road-going equivalent of the company’s X-Bow GT2 track weapon.The GT-XR uses an Audi-sourced 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine tuned to produce 493 horsepower at 6350 rpm.Production is limited to a maximum of 100 per year.

The Austrian firm KTM, primarily known in the U.S. as a motorcycle manufacturer, has a new road-going X-Bow model called the GT-XR. KTM has been making the X-Bow (i.e. crossbow) since 2008. The GT-XR is the street version of the X-Bow GT2, with air conditioning, Bluetooth, and an optional (!) rear-view mirror. In lieu of doors, KTM went more Star Wars X Wing with a jet fighter canopy.

We’ve been seriously impressed by the KTM performance in the past. The original X-Bow lapped VIR at 2:52.3 in our annual Lightning Lap testing. Our editor-in-chief deemed the 2019 X-Bow Comp R “properly capable” after driving it at Sonoma Raceway in California.

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With a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine sourced from the Audi RS3, the GT-XR packs 493 horsepower. Not record-setting, but in KTM fashion, the car is incredibly light. The GT-XR tips the scales at a claimed 2491 pounds. That’s only 300 pounds more than a first-gen Mazda Miata. The carbon monocoque weighing in at 196 pounds is lighter than the average American man. The combination of high power and low weight is said to rocket the KTM to 62 mph in 3.4 seconds.

Kernasenko J.

KTM forwent a manual gearbox for the GT-XR, opting instead for a seven-speed direct-shift gearbox (DSG). The steering wheel is removable and features an integrated display with shift indicators. The forged aluminum wheels are made by OZ Racing. KTM added a 25-gallon fuel tank allowing for more than 600 miles of range between fill-ups.

The GT-XR is available to order in Europe, where the KTM notes that the car is approved for street use. Pricing is just over $286,000 based on current exchange rates. A maximum of 100 will be made per year. U.S. buyers may be out of luck, however, as KTM does not mention U.S. availability.

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