Bentley has revealed the first details on its updated Continental GT which is set to debut in June. It will be the first model to feature the recently revealed V-8 plug-in hybrid powertrain that Bentley will use to replace its venerable twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter W-12. The W-12 ceases production this summer, with the coachbuilt Batur and Batur... Bentley has revealed the first details on its updated Continental GT which is set to debut in June.
It will be the first model to feature the recently revealed V-8 plug-in hybrid powertrain that Bentley will use to replace its venerable twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter W-12.
The W-12 ceases production this summer, with the coachbuilt Batur and Batur Convertible models launched to celebrate the engine’s run. The W-12 delivers a peak 740 hp in those models, its highest rating for any Bentley, but the new V-8 plug-in hybrid setup, known as the Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain, delivers even more juice.
Bentley on Thursday said the electrified V-8 will deliver 771 hp in the updated Continental GT, in addition to a pure electric range of about 50 miles.
Bentley Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain
Other updates planned for the car include a revised all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring, rear-wheel steering, an electronic limited-slip differential, an electronic anti-roll system, and dual-valve dampers that enable adjustment of both rebound and compression, resulting in a wider performance bandwidth when it comes to comfort and handling control.
Camouflaged prototypes have been spotted testing for more than a year, but teaser photos released alongside Thursday’s announcement reveal some of the styling changes that will take place. New single-element headlights similar to those used on the Bacalar coachbuilt speedster replace the current model’s dual-element lights. The oval taillights have also been made longer and slimmer on the updated model.
The current Continental GT went on sale in 2018 as a 2019 model. The updated model should arrive in the U.S. as a 2025 model. An updated Continental GT Convertible is also due soon.
