The model looks more like an extensive facelift of its predecessor, highlighted by the new electrified V8
- The new generation of the Bentley Continental GT and GTC debut with evolutionary styling.
- The highlight is the new plug-in hybrid V8, producing a combined 771 hp and 1,000 Nm (738 lb-ft) of torque.
- Besides the electrified powertrain, the 2+2 grand tourer and convertible benefit from a revised chassis setup.
Bentley unveiled the fourth generation of the Continental GT and GTC, which adds more technology and a powerful new plug-in hybrid V8 powertrain to replace the old W12 engine.
Every new generation of the Continental GT since the original from 2003, has been getting sleeker while retaining similar proportions and several signature styling cues. The new model is instantly recognizable as a Bentley, although it swaps the quad headlight arrangement of its predecessors, for a new pair of modern single-unit lights.
More: Bentley Batur Convertible By Mulliner Is An Ode To The W12
The new face brings to mind the more exclusive Bentley Batur, but the headlights are bigger, the grille smaller, and the bumper intakes are similar to the outgoing Continental GT. The profile does without the over-designed side gills of its predecessor, while the taillights are more elongated with jewel-like LED graphics. The rest of the bodywork looks quite familiar, retaining the muscular fenders and swooping character lines which are strongly associated with the Crewe brand.
The same applies to the interior which appears to be largely carried over from the third-gen Continental GT, proving that the fourth-gen is more of an extensive facelift. Still, Bentley engineers improved the sound insulation, while adding a more advanced infotainment system compatible with wireless connectivity and over-the-air updates.
As with all models from the Crewe factory, the Continental GT offers high-quality materials in different colors and finishes. If these are not enough, owners can gain access to more sophisticated personalization options from the Mulliner department.
Bentley Continental GT
The highlight of the new Continental GT and GTC is what lies under the hood. The new “Ultra Performance Hybrid” powertrain is rated at a combined 771 hp (583 kW / 782 PS) and 1,000 Nm (738 lb-ft) of torque, surpassing the figures of the discontinued non-electrified V8 and W12 engines. In fact, the new Continental GT is the most powerful Bentley ever made, proving that electrification has its merits.
The setup comprises a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 with 591 hp (441 kW / 600 PS), and a single electric motor contributing another 187 hp (140 kW / 190 PS). This is very similar to the PHEV powertrain of the Porsche Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid, although in the Bentley, it’s even more powerful. The battery pack with a capacity of 25.9 kWh delivers an EV range of 81 km (50 miles) according to the WLTP cycle. A full charge takes 2 hours and 45 minutes from an 11 kW outlet.
The new Bentley benefits from an all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring, and an electronically limited-slip differential on the rear axle. Furthermore, the sophisticated chassis setup includes the 48V active roll stabilization system, a new two-chamber air suspension with adaptive dampers, and four-wheel steering, making sure the driving dynamics are on par with its performance.
Despite the 192 kg (423 lbs) weight gain over its predecessor, the new Continental GT accelerates from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 3.2 seconds, and has a top speed of 335 km/h (208 mph). This makes it 0.4 seconds quicker than the previous-generation W12-powered Continental GT Speed, while closely matching its top speed figure. On the other hand, the topless Continental GTC completes the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint in 3.4 seconds and has a limited top speed of 285 km/h (177 mph).
Deliveries of the new Bentley Continental GT and GTC models will start in the third quarter of 2024. The model will be manufactured at the company’s Crewe headquarters, with pricing set to be announced at a later date.