The latest Bentley Continental GT, fourth generation of the 21-year old model line, is now available in Malaysia. It has an electrified powertrain but is not fully electric, therefore not qualifying for the duty-free incentive so it is priced from RM3,120,000 (including estimated duties and sales tax).
Major change of ‘face’
The new exterior continues the design revolution for Bentley’s future journey, with the biggest revision to the face of the Continental GT in two decades, and the first mainstream Bentley with single headlamps since the 1950s. The whole car has been visually cleaned, with fewer breaks in the surfaces giving more muscularity and a more refined shape.
Most powerful grand tourer
For the new Continental GT Speed, a brand-new Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain has been developed. This new PHEV powertrain combines a new 4-litre V8 engine capable of producing 600 ps, supplemented by 190 ps from an electric motor. At peak, system output is 782 ps (from 659 ps), while system torque is increased by over 11% (from 900 Nm to 1000 Nm) compared to the outgoing W12-powered Continental GT Speed.
This makes the new Continental GT Speed the most powerful grand tourer ever, beyond the levels of the second-generation Supersports and the Batur.
Full electric mode can be deployed at speeds of up to 140 km/h, with throttle applications of up to 75%. Up to 81 kms can be travelled with just electric power, with total range claimed to be 859 kms. The 25.9 kWh battery can be fully replenished in as little as 2.75 hours, thanks to significant improvements in charger and battery capacity, with 11 kW peak charging power.
The power is delivered via an 8-speed dual clutch transmission and an electronic limited slip differential to all 4 wheels. The system uses active torque vectoring front to rear through a centre differential, and precision vectoring across each axle using the brakes.
Bentley Performance Active Chassis
The new Continental GT Speed benefits from the new Bentley Performance Active Chassis. This includes Active All-Wheel Drive, an electronic limited slip differential, all wheel steering, torque vectoring (front to rear and across the axles), Bentley Dynamic Ride active anti roll system, and a new generation of ESC control software.
In addition, the car is fitted with a new dual valve damper system and dual chamber air springs, which enables more sophisticated tuning options. The result is that the new car can achieve an even more impressive combination of performance, handling, and comfort.
Overall dynamic ability, and steering feel, have both been improved by the car’s now perfect weight distribution of 49:51, achieved thanks to the intelligent positioning of the hybrid battery. The weight split brings a car that is inherently balanced during dynamic driving, and permits a range of driving styles to be accessed.
Pinnacle of craftsmanship
As with every Bentley model, the Continental family showcases the pinnacle of craftsmanship from the skilled team at the carbon-neutral factory in England. Bentley’s bespoke division – Mulliner – will also be offering a collection of unique features enabling further personalisation to the latest model.
The new grand tourer features a new precision quilt pattern taking inspiration from modern fashion design to the seats and doors. With sculptured quilting, fading perforations and a new quilt embroidery, the cabin provides the ultimate cocooning environment for any extraordinary journey.
The 20-way adjustable seats have long set industry standards in comfort and refinement. New interior features include the optional Wellness seating with Postural Adjust and Auto Climate to the front seats, minimizing fatigue and providing a level of relaxation that is truly unique.
The new Continental GT continues to feature the innovative Bentley Rotating Display – the 3-sided display featuring a 12.3-inch high-definition display, 3 elegant analogue dials, and an unbroken side of handcrafted veneer. The three sides are selectable at the touch of a button.
Modern innovative technology
Under the skin, a suite of modern innovative technology delivers class-leading capability so that every journey is a seamless experience in terms of driver assistance and infotainment systems.
The fourth generation Continental GT benefits from the latest generation of 400V electrical architecture, enabling a significant step forward. This technology is the most advanced in the luxury segment, and extremely competitive for customers coming to Bentley from premium brands.