News/ Launches/ The Revival Of The Jaguar C-X75

The Revival Of The Jaguar C-X75

Once a mere glimmer in Jaguar’s concept line-up, the C-X75, introduced in 2010, could have rewritten the supercar playbook and elevated the Holy Trinity into a Holy Quartet. Though initially approved for production, the ambitious project was eventually shelved, finding its way onto the big screen in Spectre, only to fade from public view—until now. Earlier this year, Ian Callum, the legendary designer behind the coupe, breathed new life into this Jaguar icon by unveiling the first street-legal C-X75. His company, Callum Designs, has now upped the ante with a second street-legal iteration crafted to tantalise those who dare to dream beyond the ordinary.

This second rebirth of the C-X75 began as one of the stunt cars from the 2015 James Bond film. But Callum Designs didn’t just make it street-legal; they reimagined it with updates to bring the C-X75 closer to what it would’ve looked like had it hit showrooms. Key transformations touch nearly every aspect of the car, from the powerhouse under the hood to the vehicle’s active aerodynamics, styling refinements, and entirely redone interiors.

The concept's original drivetrain featured two diesel turbines powering four electric motors— but impractical for the road. Callum Designs swapped this setup for a more conventional, though no less thrilling, supercharged V8 paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Performance figures remain undisclosed, but with dual driving modes tailored for both road and track, it’s clear this Jaguar’s claws are as sharp on tarmac as they are on asphalt.

The C-X75’s low, sweeping lines remain, but Callum added a speed-activated air brake and an active aero package, giving it extra downforce above 37 kmph. For more grounded driving, a front-axle lift system is built in to keep that bespoke bumper safe from speed bumps. Finished in an elegant Willow Green with grey wheels, this street-legal C-X75 is as striking as it is rare.

Callum Designs started from scratch, reworking the stunt car's sparse interior. The cabin now features an unbranded billet-machined steering wheel, an analogue gauge displaying gear selection, and sport seats in supple Bridge of Weir leather. Modern conveniences—like a digital rear-view mirror, wireless charging pad, and Apple CarPlay—bring the tech up to today’s standards without stealing the spotlight from the C-X75’s timeless appeal.

Pricing details are under wraps, but one thing’s for sure: this isn’t your average hypercar. With only six units built and just two of them street-legal, Callum’s C-X75 makes even the exclusive Ferrari FXX-K look almost commonplace by comparison.

TopGear Magazine October 2024