Jensen Interceptor GTX Debut: 1,000 HP And A Manual

Jensen is back, and the reborn automaker isn’t making its way into the sports car world. With the debut of the 2026 Interceptor GTX, the British brand is taking a big step toward putting a new Jensen on the road. The GTX is a nearly 1,000-horsepower track car that anticipates the company’s plans for a new generation of road models. You can’t buy one yet, but the GTX gives us a clearer look at what Jensen may have in store. What’s new? The Interceptor GTX is Jensen’s track-focused development car, and is a preview of the company’s future road models. What’s under the hood? The GTX uses a GM 6.8-liter supercharged V8 that produces 960 horsepower, with up to 1,200 hp possible. What about performance hardware? A six-speed sequential transmission, rear-wheel drive, three-way adjustable Nitron shocks, and AP Racing brakes give the GTX serious credentials. Will it make it to the road? Jensen plans to develop two road-going versions: the high-performance Interceptor GTR and the luxury-focused Interceptor GT, with either a manual or automatic transmission. Supercharged 2026 Jensen Interceptor GTX 6.8-liter engine, born in Britain and raised in the United States. Photo by: Jensen International Automotive Jensen may not be a household name in the US, but the company has a lot of history. The new Interceptor GTX puts a modern twist on that heritage, combining classically inspired styling with high-end hardware. Under the hood is a 6.8-liter supercharged V8 from General Motors, although calling it a GM engine is probably understating the number of improvements. Less than 20 percent of the original components remain after Jensen sent the engine to Late Model Engine in Texas for a comprehensive overhaul. Photos by: Jensen International Automotive The result is a V8 with CNC-machined cylinder heads, titanium valves, a fully forged rotating assembly and racing components, all managed by MoTeC engine software. It makes 960 horsepower in its standard configuration, but Jensen says it can produce up to 1,200 horsepower and more than 1,100 pound-feet of torque. That power is transmitted through a rear-mounted Samsonas Motorsport six-speed sequential transmission with straight-cut tooth gears. A carbon fiber driveshaft connects the engine and transmission, while a Wavetrac differential sends power to the rear wheels. Stopping power comes from an AP Racing brake package with floating steel discs, hidden behind custom 20-inch forged aluminum wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport tires. The GTX also uses double wishbone suspension at both ends, along with three-way adjustable Nitron shocks. Functional yet elegant interior of the 2026 Jensen Interceptor GTX. Photo by: Jensen International Automotive The GTX rides on an aluminum chassis developed in collaboration with Avant Design. And while this car is very much a track-focused machine, Jensen says that about 80 percent of its exterior design will carry over to road models. That means the slim horizontal lights, large air intakes, integrated rear diffuser and exposed aerodynamic elements are more than just styling exercises. The adjustable rear spoiler alone can generate up to 771 pounds of downforce, while a front splitter and flat floor complete the car’s aerodynamic package. Inside, the GTX is as serious as its exterior suggests. There’s a custom-made FIA ​​roll cage, carbon fiber Tillett racing seats with six-point harnesses and a fire extinguisher. A MoTeC display handles the instrumentation, while Alcantara trim and orange stitching add a bit of luxury to the otherwise race-ready cabin. What comes next? Jensen Interceptor GT rear 3/4. Photo by: Jensen International Automotive The GTX is just the beginning. Jensen will now put the car through testing as it continues to develop its performance and refine the package ahead of its next-generation road cars. The company plans to eventually offer two versions of the Interceptor: a high-performance GTR and a more luxurious GT. Unlike the GTX, both will be designed for the road and use more conventional transmissions, including an H-pattern manual and a fully automatic. Jensen International CEO David Duerden says: “While this is just the first step, the GTX gives a clear indication of where we are headed and marks the beginning of an exciting new era for the brand.” Jensen has not announced when production will begin, only saying that it will work with customers as development continues. That leaves plenty of questions about pricing, production figures, and exactly how much of the GTX’s incredible performance will make it to road cars. For now, though, the Interceptor GTX is a pretty convincing way for Jensen to announce that he’s serious about making a comeback. 23 Source: Jensen International Automotive Motor1 Opinion: The new Interceptor GTX looks like a serious machine. With V8 and manual power, it could be exactly the resurgence the British automaker needs. It’s only a matter of time before we see the production version on the road. We want your opinion! What would you like to see on Motor1.com? Take our 3-minute survey. – The Motor1.com team