TWR's Exciting Revelation: V12 Jaguar XJS Returns

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【Summary】TWR, the British racing and engineering outfit, is making a comeback after a two-decade hiatus with its first project being a customized V12 Jaguar XJS. The project is a partnership with Magnus Walker and Khyzyl Saleem, who will re-imagine the XJS for the 21st century. Magnus Walker has been heavily involved in the car's creation process, from design to road testing. TWR aims to create a drivable car that combines modern aesthetics with practicality.

FutureCar Staff Nov 13, 2023 3:16 PM PT

TWR's Exciting Revelation: V12 Jaguar XJS Returns

TWR, the renowned British racing and engineering outfit, is making a comeback after a two-decade hiatus. Their first project is the reimagining of the V12 Jaguar XJS, in partnership with Magnus Walker and conceptual design guru, Khyzyl Saleem. The goal is to bring the classic XJS, originally built between 1975 and 1996, into the 21st century.

Magnus Walker, known for his expertise in restoring old 911s, has been heavily involved in the creation process of the TWR XJS. He has contributed to designing the car, working with suppliers for parts, and even road testing. Walker's involvement has given enthusiasts reason to be optimistic about the final product.

Speaking about the project, Magnus Walker expressed his excitement, stating, "The original TWR put Jaguar on the map in the late '70s, '80s, and into the '90s. TWR explained the project, which was just what I was looking to do, and I was in. The stars aligned perfectly."

Walker also emphasized the importance of drivability and practicality in the new XJS. He wants the car to perform well in real-world situations, from idle to throttle transition to navigating bumper-to-bumper traffic. His focus on usability and practicality ensures that the TWR XJS will be a well-rounded vehicle.

Khyzyl Saleem, who has been working with TWR for some time, will use his considerable talents to visualize the perfect modern shape for the TWR XJS. Saleem expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "The XJS has been seen as sort of unloved, a difficult second album to the E-Type. There's an obvious history with it and TWR, and to have the chance to give it a new life is special."

TWR, founded in 1976, established a close relationship with Jaguar, resulting in a successful race program for the XJS. The collaboration reached its peak with the TWR-Jaguar XJR-9, which won the 24 hours of Le Mans in 1990. Now, under the leadership of Fergus Walkinshaw, son of TWR's founding father Tom Walkinshaw, the brand has returned and operates from its base in Newbury, Berkshire. Fergus aims to deliver more bespoke creations that capture the spirit of TWR's heyday.