New Bentley Continental GT and GTC become hybrids

Bentley has unveiled the fourth generation Continental GT and GTC in its flagship Speed ​​trim. The models add more technology and feature a significantly more powerful new V8 hybrid powertrain, replacing the old W12 engine.

Each new generation of Continental GT since the 2003 original has become more refined, while maintaining similar proportions and some signature styling cues. The new model is immediately recognizable as a Bentley, although the four headlights have been replaced by a new pair of single headlights with matrix LEDs.

The new front-end design is reminiscent of the more exclusive Bentley Batur, but the headlights are larger, the grille is smaller and the air intakes on the bumper are similar to the outgoing Continental GT. The taillights are more elongated and feature jewel-like LED graphics. The rest of the body looks quite familiar, retaining the muscular fenders and sweeping lines.

The same applies to the interior, which appears to be largely carried over from the third-generation Continental GT, proving that the fourth generation is more of an extensive facelift. However, Bentley engineers have improved sound insulation, added a new electrical architecture, the latest ADAS system and a more advanced infotainment system compatible with wireless connectivity and over-the-air updates.

Highlights of the interior include new upholstery patterns, 20-way power-adjustable seats and three available audio systems topped by Naim’s flagship 18-speaker, 2,200-watt unit. Like all Crewe factory models, the Continental GT Speed ​​is made from high-quality materials in a variety of colors and finishes. If that’s not enough, owners can access more sophisticated personalization options in the Mulliner department.

The highlight of the new Continental GT/GTC Speed ​​is what’s under the bonnet. The new Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain produces a combined output of 771 PS (583 kW) and 1,000 Nm of torque, outperforming the discontinued non-electrified V8 and W12 engines. In fact, the new Continental GT Speed ​​is the most powerful Bentley ever made, proving that electrification has its benefits.

The hybrid powertrain includes a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 591 hp. (441 kW) and an electric motor that is integrated into an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. It develops another 187 hp. (140 kW). This is very similar to the PHEV Porsche Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid powertrain, although the Bentley’s is even more powerful.

The 25.9 kWh battery is mounted behind the rear axle for optimal weight balance. According to the WLTP cycle, the Grand Tourer has an electric range of 81 km and a total range of 859 km. A full charge takes 2 hours 45 minutes from an 11 kW outlet.

The new Bentley features torque vectoring all-wheel drive and an electronically controlled limited slip differential at the rear axle. Additionally, the more sophisticated Bentley Performance active chassis includes active roll stabilization, new dual-chamber air suspension, dual-valve adaptive dampers, new generation ESC control software and four-wheel steering.

In terms of stopping power, Bentley offers two options – standard steel ventilated brakes or a set of carbon carbide brakes. Both use ten-piston calipers at the front and four-piston calipers at the rear.

Despite a weight increase of 192 kg compared to its predecessor, the new Continental GT Speed ​​accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 335 km/h. This makes it 0.4 seconds faster than the previous generation W12-powered model. On the other hand, the open-top Continental GTC Speed ​​accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 285 km/h.

To prove the performance of the new Continental GT Speed, Bentley drove it in the Ryfylke Tunnel in Norway. The model reached a top speed of 335 km/h from a standstill in 33 seconds, setting an “unofficial” speed record for a car in a tunnel. Please note that the Ryfylke Tunnel in Rogaland County is the longest and deepest underwater road tunnel in the world, measuring 14.4 km in length.

Deliveries of the new Bentley Continental GT Speed ​​and GTC Speed ​​will begin in the third quarter of 2024. The models will be produced at the company’s Crewe headquarters in the UK, with prices to be announced at a later date.

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