KTM X-Bow GTX Debuts As A Bonkers Track Tool With A $271k Price Tag

Following the February 2020 preview, KTM has unveiled the latest evolution of its X-Bow track car, called the GTX.

Featuring a fully enclosed carbon fiber bodywork, the X-Bow GTX is described by the Austrian manufacturer as its “most spectacular, beautiful and technologically advanced vehicle.” Designed for track days as well as professional use in racing, the new iteration of the X-Bow combines the tried and tested carbon fiber monocoque of the regular model with the safety of a full-fledged roll cage that’s GT homologated according to FIA Appendix J.

In addition, the driver sits in a Recaro competition seat made of carbon-kevlar that’s been developed according to the ‘Advanced Seat’ criteria. A homologated six-point racing harness from Schroth is also standard equipment. The cabin also features a fully-adjustable suede racing steering wheel with an integrated display, as well as an adjustable pedal box.

Since we mentioned the steering wheel, it must be said that the X-Bow GTX features electric power steering as opposed to the X-Bow GT4’s hydraulic power steering. Besides saving weight, the new system will offer customers at least three different set-up variants, according to the driver’s preferences and needs.

Performance should be spectacular, as the KTM X-Bow GTX weighs only 1,048 kilograms (2,310 lbs) and is powered by an Audi Sport-supplied 2.5-liter five-cylinder turbo engine tuned to deliver 530 PS (523 HP). KTM only modified the injection valves, the wastegate, the intake system, the exhaust system and the software to boost the output and the peak torque, which reaches 650 Nm (479 lb-ft). As a result, the power-to-weight ratio is 1.98 kg per metric horsepower, favoring both performance and fuel efficiency. No speed-related specs have been released, though.

Equipped with the 120-liter (31.7-gallon) FT3 safety tank, the X-Bow GTX is said to drive longer than the competition, which should come in handy both during track days and long-distance racing. The engine is hooked to a Holinger MF sequential six-speed gearbox with a sintered metal racing clutch, an easier drive and a limited-slip differential. Interestingly, the X-Bow GTX features an electrically operated gear shifter, just like Le Mans prototype racers.

Notable hardware also includes the Sachs dampers that can be adjusted in rebound and compression as well as in height on the front and the rear axles. At the front, they are installed in a push-rod arrangement including an adjustable stabilizer. As for the brakes, the X-Bow GTX features six-piston endurance brake calipers on 378-mm (14.9-in) front discs and four-piston calipers on 355-mm (14-in) rear discs.

In the looks department, the defining element of the new KTM X-Bow GTX is the ‘Jetfighter Canopy’ inherited from the X-Bow GT4 yet completely revised. The formerly one-piece ‘Plexiglass’ canopy is replaced by a carbon frame with an inserted windshield made of Makrolon and separately opening glass doors on both sides. The complete canopy can still be opened for entry and exit. A closer look also reveals that the X-Bow GTX has no side mirrors and that’s because it’s equipped with two rearview cameras.

Pricing starts at €230,000 (about $271,250) in Europe, before taxes.