The Core of a Grand Tourer
For over two decades, the Bentley Continental GT has defined the modern luxury grand tourer. Its 'core' is a masterful blend of immense power, handcrafted opulence, and cross-continental comfort. This has traditionally meant a commanding presence on the road,
an interior swathed in the finest leather and wood, and, most notably, the seemingly endless surge of power from its iconic W12 engine. The Supersports badge, in particular, has always represented the most driver-focused iteration of this philosophy. It’s a car built not just for arriving in style, but for dominating the journey with effortless performance and a chassis tuned for a more dynamic, engaging drive. This combination of supreme luxury and sporting prowess is the DNA that loyalists expect and what Bentley had to protect.
A Bolder, Electrified Heart
The boldest change lies under the long, elegant bonnet. Bentley has retired its famed W12 engine in favor of a new 'Ultra Performance Hybrid' powertrain. This system pairs a potent 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The result is staggering: the top-tier Speed and Mulliner models now produce a colossal 771 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque, making this the most powerful road-going Bentley ever. Even the 'standard' S and Azure models deliver 671 horsepower, which is more than the previous W12 Speed model. This hybrid setup provides explosive acceleration, with the GT Speed capable of hitting 60 mph in a blistering 3.1 seconds. The system also allows for an electric-only range of approximately 80 kilometres, enabling silent, zero-emission cruising in urban environments.
A Sharper, Batur-Inspired Design
The exterior styling has been thoughtfully updated, drawing inspiration from the ultra-exclusive, coachbuilt Bentley Batur. The Batur served as a preview for Bentley’s future design language, moving towards a cleaner, more muscular aesthetic. This influence is most apparent in the new Continental GT’s face, which ditches the traditional twin-headlamp design for a striking single-headlamp look on each side, giving the car a more intense and modern stare. The grille is lower and more upright, lending the car a more dominant stance, while the overall surfacing is cleaner, with tauter lines that emphasize its powerful haunches. It remains unmistakably a Continental GT, but with a sharper, more contemporary edge that signals a new era for the brand.
An Evolved Driving Experience
More power and new looks would mean little if the driving dynamics didn't uphold the grand touring promise. To manage the new powertrain and enhance agility, Bentley has equipped the car with its most advanced chassis technology. This includes active all-wheel drive, four-wheel steering for improved maneuverability, and a 48V active anti-roll system known as Bentley Dynamic Ride. This technology works to keep the car incredibly stable through corners, counteracting body roll and creating a more athletic feel without sacrificing the sublime comfort expected of a Bentley. Despite a weight increase due to the hybrid system, the new GT is praised for its ability to feel both supremely comfortable on long journeys and surprisingly agile when the road gets twisty.
Opulence Meets Modernity Inside
Inside, the core Bentley experience of unparalleled luxury is preserved and enhanced. The cabin remains a sanctuary of quilted leather, polished wood veneers, and knurled metal controls. The 20-way adjustable seats can be optioned with massage functions and an automatic climate system that heats or cools you as needed. This traditional craftsmanship is blended with modern technology, including a digital dashboard and the signature Bentley Rotating Display, which can switch between a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a set of classic analogue dials, or a clean veneer panel at the touch of a button. It’s a space that feels both timelessly elegant and perfectly equipped for the modern driver, a final confirmation of the car’s dual nature.
