Bentley has unveiled the first images of the upcoming next-generation Continental GT, which is set to be the company’s most powerful car yet. This new model will feature a hybrid drivetrain that is expected to produce nearly 800bhp, thanks to an uprated 4.0-liter V8 engine paired with an electric motor. The combination of these two power sources will send an impressive 771bhp and 738lb ft of torque to all four wheels, surpassing the W12 engine found in the exclusive Batur.
While exact performance figures have not been released, it is expected that the new Continental GT will achieve a 0-62mph time faster than the 3.6 seconds claimed by the previous 650bhp Continental GT Speed. This improvement in speed and power is made possible by the addition of the hybrid drivetrain.
In addition to its impressive performance capabilities, the new Continental GT will also feature a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) setup that offers 50 miles of electric-only driving between charges. This will contribute to a CO2 emissions figure of less than 50g/km, placing it in the 8% benefit-in-kind tax band for the upcoming financial year.
Bentley has not yet provided details on the weight implications of the hybrid system, but the previous V8 GT Speed model weighed 2279kg. However, the company has made efforts to preserve the dynamic character of the car. The fourth-generation Continental GT will feature new dual-valve dampers, tweaked active anti-roll bars, revised torque vectoring, and four-wheel steering systems.
The new hybrid drivetrain will replace Bentley’s previous V8 and W12 powertrains entirely. The Continental GTC cabriolet and Flying Spur saloon will also receive updates later this year. The Bentley Bentayga will continue to offer a pure-combustion engine until 2026 when it will transition to a hybrid-only lineup. The V6-based PHEV in the Bentayga and Flying Spur will remain on sale.
Overall, the next-generation Bentley Continental GT promises to be a formidable luxury sports car with impressive power and performance, while also offering the benefits of plug-in hybrid technology. This combination of power and efficiency aligns with the industry’s increasing focus on sustainability and reducing emissions. Bentley’s commitment to electrification reflects the wider trend in the automotive industry, as more manufacturers embrace hybrid and electric drivetrains to meet stricter emissions regulations and cater to customer demand for more environmentally friendly vehicles.
The release of the next-generation Continental GT demonstrates Bentley’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering and delivering exceptional performance without compromising on sustainability. With its sleek design and advanced hybrid drivetrain, the new Continental GT is set to be a game-changer in the luxury sports car segment.
