The Bentley Continental GT V8 was revealed today, ahead of its global debut, which will take place in Detroit, at the North American International Auto Show (January 2012). We'll go straight to the point. Its power comes from a 4.0 liter V8 engine with an output of 500bhp (507PS/373Kw) at 6000 rpm and 660Nm (487 lb ft) between 1700 rpm and 5000 rpm. In terms of performance, the Bentley's Continental V8 is able to accelerate from zero to 60 mph (~100 km/h) in less than 5 seconds and it's rated with a top speed of more than 180mph (290km/h).
The new Conti V8 comes to complement Bentley's flagship models - the 6.0 liter W12 GT and GTC.
The V8 version of the Continental GT comes with a 40% improvement in both fuel economy and CO2 emissions, which means you can efficient, as well as fast. The Continental V8 comes equipped with direct injection, variable displacement and a close-ratio 8-speed automatic transmission, which sends the power to an all wheel-drive.
Bentley says that the new V8 Continental GT can travel for up to 500 miles (800km) on a single tank of fuel. Bentley improved the mileage of the Conti V8 by giving it low friction bearings, a thermal management system, and an energy recuperation system. There's no Start/Stop system yet, though.
In terms of design, the Continental V8 distinguishes itself through the black gloss matrix grille, the red enamel Bentley 'B' badge, and a black matrix three-segment lower front bumper. At the rear, the Continental V8 features a set of chromed "figure eight" exhaust tailpipes, a dark lower valance and the 'B' logo, of course. The car comes as standard with 20-inch rims, but optionally, Bentley is offering 21-inch ones too.
Bentley will offer the Continental V8 as a GT coupe and as a GTC convertible. Both versions will be equipped with an advanced Torsen differential and they will offer a 40:60 rear biased power split for a bit of fun around corners.
The Bentley Continental GT V8 price list will be announced at a later date. Watch the Continental V8 in action in the video after the jump.
Bentley Continental GT V8 equipment list:
Distinctive sporting style
- Gloss black matrix grille with bright chrome surround and divider
- Three-segment lower bumper with black air intakes and striking body-coloured dividers
- Dark rear lower valance
- Distinctive twin ‘figure eight’ exhaust tailpipes
- Red enamel Bentley winged ‘B’ badges above the front grille, to the bootlid and wheel centres
- 7 exterior colours offered in standard range
Sporty, contemporary interior
- New Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneer unique to the V8 models
- Eliade cloth headlining and pillar trim
- Short centre console in place of W12 through-console
- 4 hide colours offered in standard range
- Unique two-tone leather colour split
- 3 hood colours (Continental GTC)
Exhilarating, efficient new 4.0 liter V8 engine
- Exceptional power-to-emissions ratio reflecting engine efficiency
- Variable displacement (a technology first proven on the Mulsanne) imperceptibly cuts 4 cylinders on cruise and light throttle
- Switchable engine mounts ensure refinement
- Engine optimisation technologies boost efficiency
- New, close-ratio, 8-speed transmission offers 6 per cent efficiency gain with ultra-fast shifts
- Turbochargers mounted within ‘V’ for efficiency and fast response
- Over 500 miles (800km) range on one tank of fuel
- Distinctive V8 growl
- All-wheel drive system with 40:60 rear biased torque split.
Bentley Continental GT V8 video:
