The KTM X-Bow (pronounced “crossbow”) was first launched in Europe in 2008 but it wasn't until last April that the company could sell one directly to us here in the U.S. This Comp R version is the latest evolution of the featherweight track toy — though it’s touted in Europe as a “race car ready for the road,” its sole destination here will be the racetrack since it isn’t road-legal in the States.
It wasn’t for lack of trying, however. KTM originally hoped to bring the X-Bow to the U.S. in 2010, but first had to navigate the labyrinthine world of federal regulations. After much back-and-forth, KTM abandoned roadgoing certification and doubled down on the track. Which is a good thing, because that’s where this beast belongs.
After all, the styling is pure racecar. The front end is reminiscent of a baby McLaren 570S by way of Terminator exoskeleton, with angular bodywork giving way to exposed carbon fiber and suspension bits. Those inboard coilovers are a work of art, and fun to watch as they compress under cornering.
Out back, the Audi-sourced 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is clearly visible, nestled just ahead of the rear axle. The whole design speaks to a delicate, purposeful strength. It manages to be angrier and more cohesive than, say, the wide-eyed craziness of a Caterham 7 or the alienlike form of an Ariel Atom. The absence of windshield, heater or infotainment system speak to this car’s true mission.
It’s a sturdy piece of engineering too. Underneath the X-Bow's skin is a carbon fiber monocoque tub weighing a svelte 196 pounds. It’s mated up front to a carbon-aluminum crashbox that meets FIA Formula 3 and GT safety regulations.
Once behind the wheel, the first thing that stands out is how tractable the X-Bow Comp R is, even at low speeds. A tilt-and-telescoping wheel and a sliding pedal assembly make it easy for the driver to make adjustments. The clutch is nicely weighted, and the short-throw six-speed manual shifter moves through gears with a deliberate confidence. Who knew that an Audi-sourced shifter could feel this precise?
Pair this easygoing demeanor with approachable limits, and the mission statement of the X-Bow Comp R becomes clear: this is a car that’s designed to appeal to any skill level. Novices, in particular, will appreciate the ability to practice fundamental concepts like trail braking without having to achieve insanely high speeds first. But if insanely high speeds are something you’re after, the X-Bow Comp R is more than willing to oblige as well. That’s the beauty of this machine: It manages to be slow-car fast as well as fast-car fast.
Right now, on the squirrely corners of Sonoma Raceway, it’s fast-car fast. This is a track that demands constant respect and attention. Blind off-camber turns and surprise elevation changes are made even more treacherous by concrete walls that are a little too close for comfort. At only 1,700 pounds, the Comp R is a definite lightweight. The 300-hp, 310 lb-ft turbo four moves this low mass along with glee. If that's not enough, spec the dual-clutch automatic version and net yourself another 50 hp and 11 lb-ft of torque from the same engine.
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