Jaguar to Remake XJ220 Supercar?

Over at Auto Express , they've released some renderings and information on what they say is Jaguar's upcoming remake of the supercar XJ220, set to compete with the Audi R8. Jaguar is experiencing new customers with the XF, maybe a new sportscar could be just what they need to help take the brand further upmarket once again.

The design is sporty, yet luxurious at the same time, offering a much more elegant interpretation of a mid-engined coupe then it's nearest competitor, the Audi R8. According to Auto Express, it will be utilizing aluminum extensively, based on engineers familiarity with it in developing the XJ and XK. It would be Jaguar's ultimate statement of design and set to be positioned as the marque's "halo" model.

The original XJ220 is a fabulous vehicle that I've gotten to see in person myself at one of the automotive museums I have attended. The car began as a side project of Jaguar's employees called "The Saturday Club" who outside of official company business, would work on vehicles after hours. 

Their goal was to create a vehicle that surpassed 200 mph (320 km/h), which the car did, holding the record for the highest top speed of a production car at 217 mph until the production of the McLaren F1 in 1994.

Jaguar denies the claims of this car's existence, however didn't rule out the potential of adding a car like this to the lineup. It'll be interesting to see if the claim turns out true.

I guess we'll know sooner or later; Auto Express the car will be unveiled within 18 months at a major international show. A new, remade XJ220 (dubbed XE) would sit nicely next to the new generation of Jaguars. I'll be sure to keep my eyes out for any more evidence of this new model.