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The Bentley Continental GT receives a V8 engine

Just in case the W12 motor is too powerful for you

The Continental GT now has a ‘tamer’ powerplant. PHOTO FROM BENTLEY

In late 2017, we shared images of the then-upcoming third-generation Bentley Continental GT that debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Now, the British ultra-luxury brand has officially added two new horses in its stable, the Continental GT V8 and the Continental GT V8 Convertible.

The powerplant sitting under the hood of these cars is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 that produces 542hp and 770Nm. It propels the car from rest to 100km/h in four seconds for the coupe and 4.1 seconds for the convertible. Both models are electronically limited to a top speed of 318km/h. Despite these figures, Bentley promises a driving range of more than 800km for every tank of fuel. This is made possible with the use of an economical eight-speed transmission and cylinder deactivation technology.

The coupe kills it in this attractive paint job. Orangey. PHOTOS FROM BENTLEY

Bentley pulled out all the stops to make a great-looking car look even better. Customers can choose from 10 differently designed 20- to 22-inch wheels as well as new exterior finishes. Quieter neck-warmers are available for the open-top version, while a heated steering wheel is standard. Quad-exhaust pipes, V8 badges in the front wings and the latest LED Matrix lighting technology set the GT V8 Coupe and the GT V8 Convertible apart from the W12 Continentals.

The convertible, meanwhile, looks like an elegant cruiser on the open road. Great for California. PHOTOS FROM BENTLEY

The use of lightweight components and driver nannies—such as continuous damping control and the optional Dynamic Ride System—improves the car’s handling. Bentley’s active AWD system, active lane assist, traffic jam assist and park assist round out the available driving aids.

Only the finest materials for a proper Bentley car. PHOTOS FROM BENTLEY

Inside, only the highest-quality leathers, along with rare but “sustainably sourced” veneers, are used. A 10-speaker, 650W audio system plays your jam, while the driver-centric cockpit features three analog dials and a 12.3-inch touchscreen display. Buyers of the convertible can choose from eight roof-lining colors.

The GT V8 Coupe and the GT V8 Convertible will be delivered to American customers in the third quarter of this year. Other markets will have to wait until the first quarter of 2020.



Red Santiago

A jack of all trades, Red is passionate about cars, motorcycles and audio. He sometimes drives for a ride-hailing app company—just because he really loves driving.



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