Friday, February 27, 2015

Jensen GT Rises from the Dead at Geneva Motor Show

BOLD RIDE

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New Jensen GT photo

Four decades later, and the Jensen GT returns to existence at the Geneva Motor Show next week. It’s a joint project between the Jensen Group and Jensen International Automotive, but nevertheless, it looks like something to be desired.

According to JIA, Jonathan Gould has been commissioned to create the Jensen GT. It’s a retro tribute of sorts to the last Jensen Interceptors built in 1976. In 2002, the carmaker would collapse.



2016 Jensen GT Geneva debut photo

Now it’s back with a hand-built, fairly modern interpretation that still embraces its heritage. Gould has two decades experience working on bespoke Bentleys and Rolls-Royce Corniches. He also was a design consultant for the Modec EV project. It was an electric truck project that flourished briefly from 2007 to 2011 before running out of cash and going bankrupt.

But not for lack of distinctive style. Gould has kept it up with the GT, which embraces Lamborghini’s Superleggera design philosophy of superlight elements like aluminum side panels. Carbon fiber is used on the roof, center section and bulkhead.



Classic Jensen Interceptor photo

A GM aluminum supercharged 6.4-liter V8 with direct injection, variable valve timing and dry sump lubrication has been sourced for the GT. Buyers will have the option of either a six-speed automatic or six-speed manual. All models will be rear-wheel drive.

Other design touches include the modern influence of LED front and rear light clusters. The 19-inch wheels are single piece forged aluminum. The overall weight for the two-door coupe is 3366 lbs.



Jensen Convertible photo

Pricing hasn’t been announced yet. Some early estimates suggest it might be north of a half-million bucks.

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