Synthetic fuels arrive on the circuits with the Radical SR3 XXR

The  Radical SR3  arrived in 2002 and has since been one of the most popular models  on track days  all over the planet. Many trust this race car to enjoy the track, but also to compete (  and others for the road  ).

After two decades  of constant evolution , its latest update has just seen the light of day. It's called  the Radical SR3 XXR  and it promises to be faster than the XX, but also more reliable and easier to use.

It changes little on the outside and a lot on the inside.

Radical  will present a brand new model in 2023. It will be called Project 25 and it promises to be the craziest model of the British brand, since its twin-turbo V6 engine will develop around 850 HP.

We still have to wait a few more weeks to see it, but those in Cambridgeshire wanted to liven up the wait with another launch that will appeal to their long-time customers. This is the  Radical SR3 XXR  and, in essence, it is an upgraded version of the SR3, Radical's most popular model.

The goal is to tweak the formula of the SR3 with an  added level of reliability and performance . Therefore, its design remains similar to that of the Radical SR3 which was launched in 2002, especially that of the SR3 XX variant which was introduced in 2020.

It simply inaugurates a shark fin inspired by Le Mans models to improve its aerodynamics, as well as  more efficient LED headlights  . As an option, it can also have a protection system inspired by the Formula 1 halo.

It also incorporates new lighter wheels and, as an option, it can be equipped with a carbon fiber front splitter and a rear diffuser made of the same material. Another of the improvements is the new  speed limiter  to cross the pit lane of the circuits with the peace of mind of not exceeding the limits.

The new brakes developed in collaboration with the specialist AP Racing  are more important  . Not only are they more powerful than those of the Radical SR3 XX, but the left pedal has a better feel and allows for better brake metering. It now uses 280mm discs with four-piston calipers front and rear.

But the most important thing in this new version of the SR3 XXK is hidden under the engine cover. Radical has developed an all new mechanism called  Generation 5 RPE  which is placed centrally and sends power to the rear wheels via a sequential six-speed gearbox.

You can mount a halo similar to that of the SR10

This 1.5-litre, four-cylinder, 16-valve block develops  232 HP  , so the potential weight ratio of the SR3 XXK is over 350 HP per tonne. In addition, this engine can run on conventional gasoline or  synthetic fuels  without compromising its reliability, an aspect that Radical has focused on.

James Pinkerton, R&D Director at Radical Motorsport and two-time Radical Cup UK Champion, said: “The handling of the SR3 is recognized as a masterpiece, so for the XXR we have taken the approach of evolutionary improvements. in multiple areas.

"We analyzed  customer and driver feedback and  then looked at all the systems in the car to see where improvements could be made, while still staying true to the SR3 formula.  We took the sidepod profile from the SR10 to improving airflow and reducing drag, and of course the new Gen 5 RPE engine is definitely the star of the show,” adds Pinkerton.

Production of the new Radical SR3 XXR will start  next February  and the first deliveries to customers will take place at the end of the same month. Radical Motorsport will market this model in its 33 dealerships in 21 countries.