Based in Poland, Carlex Design is a high-end customization shop specializing in upgrading already elite cars, boats, and airplanes. And while the Czechowice-Dziedzice company typically deals in late-model rides from leading luxury brands, Carlex’s latest work sees the shop apply its signature style of customization to a vintage Jaguar Series 2 XJ.
Outside, the resto-modded XJC has been reimagined using modern design language while still retaining the core DNA of the donor. This includes a wide body kit with a revised hood and grille setup and flared fenders to accommodate the build’s 16-spoke deep-dish wheels, as well as LED lighting throughout, a frameless window design, and speedster-inspired mirrors. Inside, the cabin’s transformation has been no less involved, now looking more like an upscale hunting lodge than your average luxury car interior with custom seats upholstered in hand-aged leather and decorated in embossed “CARLEX” branding, woodgrain steering wheel and trim, retro-style instrumentation and AC vents, a backseat that’s been replaced with yacht-style teak wood veneers, a custom leather-wrapped rollcage, and a custom shifter now controlling the car’s automatic transmission. A modern set of braking and suspension hardware also enables the XJC to excel at daily driving duties. Under its custom hood also now lies a V8 engine putting down an even 400hp.
Carlex Design has yet to reveal any additional specs or info on pricing or availability, though the company has confirmed that it will be building “a few” XJC specimens each year. Interested parties can sign up for updates on the project via the company’s website.
