AUTONEWS

Callum Designs Jaguar XJ220

Automotive designer Ian Callum has announced a modern interpretation of the iconic Jaguar XJ220.

In a post on the Callum Designs Instagram page, the company revealed the reveal of what it describes as a modern interpretation of the iconic XJ220. Callum himself designed the project, and while there’s no confirmation that it will make it to production, the idea hasn’t been completely ruled out.

Details are still scarce, but the only image released so far is enough to get people excited, according to Motor1. Its sleek, modern lines are paired with enough DNA from the original XJ220 to make it feel like a true successor rather than a simple homage.

The overall silhouette, glass, and rear air vents are reminiscent of the original supercar. Even the signature disc-shaped wheels look like a modern reinterpretation of the XJ220’s famous rims. The car appears to be painted in Spa Silver, a nod to the original model’s signature color.

What should new Jaguars look like? Callum Designs—the firm led by Ian Callum, the former designer for Ford, Jaguar, and Aston Martin—has shared a rendering of a new XJ220 online. For now, it is merely a design study, yet it appears the company might actually intend to build it. It is worth noting that this design is virtually the polar opposite of the styling language seen in modern Jaguars—specifically the Type 00 concept and the subsequent Type 01 production model. With the official debut of the Type 01 just months away, the timing of this reveal feels "suspicious," almost as if intended as a subtle dig at Jaguar and its new design direction.

While a single profile shot makes it difficult to form a complete picture of the car, what is visible is striking. The proportions differ from the original model; the overhangs have been shortened to give it a look reminiscent of a modern take on the classic Ford GT40. Sharp, geometric lines run along the flanks, and one cannot help but notice the large air intake and sculpted wheel arches.

The car is not simply a rehash of familiar ideas, though elements characteristic of Ian Callum’s design style are clearly visible. On the Callum Designs Instagram page, the vehicle is described as "a contemporary interpretation of one of the most iconic supercars ever made." The company further states that "this concept preserves the original's unmistakable silhouette while redefining every surface, detail, and proportion through a modern lens."

However, nothing has been revealed regarding the mechanics, so we do not yet know what powertrain Callum has envisioned. Will it feature an all-new engine, or perhaps be a restomod? That matters little for now, as the goal was to showcase the latest evolution of the XJ220 and capture the hearts of enthusiasts.

Will it make it to the road? Callum Design has revealed the rendering and is now waiting for a potential client willing to fund the car's development. If the funding comes through, there could be a pleasant surprise in store. In any case, the rendering has sparked considerable debate since its unveiling. Jaguar's new design language has not yet fully won people over, and many see Ian Callum’s vision as a true representation of what new Jaguars ought to look like.

For now, Callum Designs is calling the project a "design study," meaning there's no guarantee it'll ever see production. That said, the company also hinted that there's more to come, writing, "Stay tuned for more on this Callum project... Coming soon."