Bentley has officially unveiled the next iteration of its Continental GT, and it’s turning heads with some serious upgrades. Just after bidding farewell to the old Continental GT with the final pure V-8 version, the Edition 8, Bentley is back with a sneak peek of their new model. And while it may look like a facelift of the 2017 version, there’s a lot more under the hood.
A Powerhouse Hybrid
The latest Continental GT is powered by Bentley’s “Ultra Performance Hybrid” system, combining a V-8 engine with an electric motor. This dynamic duo delivers a whopping 771 horsepower and an incredible 738 pound-feet of torque. To put that into perspective, it surpasses the power output of the W-12 engine in the Batur, which “only” delivers 740 hp and 737 lb-ft.
Luxury Meets Cutting-Edge Technology
The new model is equipped with a battery pack capable of providing 50 miles of range under the WLTP cycle, though this will likely be slightly less under the EPA test. Bentley’s powerhouse is now their most potent production car ever, featuring four-wheel steering, all-wheel drive with torque vectoring, dual-valve dampers, a limited-slip differential, and 48-volt electric anti-roll technology. All these features combined make this Continental GT the “most dynamically capable Bentley road car in the company’s 105-year history.”
Performance Expectations
While performance numbers haven’t been officially released, expectations are high. It could potentially outpace the old Continental GT Speed, which needed just three and a half seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph and had a top speed of 208 mph. It’s worth noting that the iconic twin-turbo 6.0-liter engine is making its final appearance in the ultra-exclusive Batur. Future models of the Continental GT Speed will not feature the twelve-cylinder engine.
Weight and Luxury
Regarding weight, the new model is expected to be heavier than its predecessor, which weighed nearly 4,800 pounds. With the additional hybrid components, it might cross the 5,000-pound mark, similar to the old W-12 model. However, this is unlikely to be a major concern as the Continental GT is designed more for luxurious cruising than for track agility.
Debut and Future Prospects
The next-generation Continental GT is set to debut in June as a coupe, with a convertible version likely to follow soon after. Keep an eye out for this blend of luxury and performance that promises to set new standards in the automotive world.
