Bentley is set to release the latest iteration of its Continental GT next month, and this time, it will come equipped with a new Ultra Hybrid Performance powertrain. This plug-in hybrid system combines a V8 engine with an electric motor, delivering a staggering 771 horsepower and approximately 738 pound-feet of torque. Bentley claims that this powertrain configuration will make the new GT the most powerful and dynamically capable road car in the company’s history.
To put this into perspective, the current GT model features a W12 engine that produces 650 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque. With the additional horsepower and torque provided by the hybrid powertrain, it is expected that the new GT will be noticeably quicker than its predecessor, which can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds.
Aside from its power capabilities, the new Continental GT will also offer impressive electric-only range. Bentley claims that it will be capable of traveling up to 50 miles on electric power alone. Furthermore, the car is expected to have carbon dioxide emissions of under 50 grams per kilometer, making it a more environmentally friendly option compared to its gas-powered counterparts.
In terms of handling and performance enhancements, the new GT will feature all-wheel drive, torque vectoring, an electronic limited-slip differential, and four-wheel steering. Bentley will also include its innovative 48-volt electronic active anti-roll control system, further enhancing the car’s stability and agility.
It remains uncertain if Bentley will continue to offer a gas V8 as an entry-level option for the Continental GT line-up. However, given the popularity of the GT model, it is likely that the hybrid variant will be positioned alongside the existing gas-powered options. The Continental GT has been a major success for Bentley, accounting for a significant portion of the brand’s overall sales. Over the course of its more than 20-year run on the market, Bentley has sold nearly 100,000 units of the GT.
As for pricing, it is expected that the new hybrid model will start around $250,000, with the possibility of reaching the mid-$300,000 range for the top-tier variants. Bentley has yet to release specific details about the pricing structure and where the hybrid model will fit within the GT catalog. However, considering the impressive performance and advanced technology offered by the new GT, a price increase is to be expected.
With the introduction of the Ultra Hybrid Performance powertrain, Bentley is showcasing its commitment to both power and sustainability. By combining a powerful V8 engine with an electric motor, the new Continental GT offers a compelling balance between performance and efficiency. As the luxury automaker continues to innovate and adapt to changing market demands, it is clear that Bentley is positioning itself at the forefront of the plug-in hybrid segment.