When it comes to Grand Tourers, a name that almost always comes to a car enthusiast’s mind is the Bentley Continental. For decades, the British brand has been considered as the pinnacle of GT cars. Powerful, comfortable, and a bit sporty to boot. Now, Bentley unveils the third-generation model: the 2018 Bentley Continental GT.
While still possessing a recognizable profile, the new GT dons more modern touches. The trademark mesh grille s flanked by the signature round headlamps. The roof is now more swoopy while the fenders are as muscular s ever. And 21-inch alloys now come standard, though these can be upgraded to 22s.
Inside, tradition meets the future with niceties like a rotating wood veneer strip that reveals either a 12.3-inch touchscreen interface of three dials that give out vehicle information. Owners can spec their Continental GT with any of the extensive range of leather and carpet choices from either the 17-shade standard or 70-hue extended range
Beyond the luxury, however, the third-gen Bentley Continental GT is still about power and ride quality. The 6.0-liter twin-turbo W12 motor now packs 626hp and 897Nm. All this is sent to all four wheels via 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox and and all-new all-wheel drive system. Biased more towards the rear wheels most of the time, it constantly monitors road conditions in order to send traction where it is needed most.
All this allows the GT to sprint from rest to the century mark in 3.7 seconds and hit a 333kph top speed. Despite these numbers, the Continental GT claims to be kind to the environment, thanks to a new 48-volt mild-hybrid system that lets it achieve engine start-stop and cylinder shutdown functions in order to save fuel.
The 48-volt system is likewise hooked to a Dynamic Ride System that allows the car to either waft in cloud-like comfort or achieve razor-sharp handling when the situation calls for it. As always, it is the best of both worlds.
The 2018 Bentley Continental GT will make its world debut at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Sow in September.
