Bentley will unveil two new Continental V8 models at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
New Bentley Continental GT and GTC V8 cars will be shown to the public for the first time at the Detroit Auto Show this week. Both the Continental GT Coupe and the GTC Convertible are powered by a new 4.0-litre turbocharged V8 engine with direct fuel injection, which has been designed to offer the best possible power to emissions ratio.
The new V8 engine is capable of delivering 500bhp at 6,000rpm, and has peak torque of 487lb-ft across a wide rev range from 1,700rpm to 5,000rpm. This is combined with a new close-ratio 8-speed automatic transmission for the fastest possible gear changes. This means that the GT Coupe is able to accelerate from 0-62mph in a time of 4.6 seconds, with a top speed of 188mph.
Improving fuel efficiency was a priority for Bentley when developing the new models, and a wide range of measures have been put in place to achieve this. Low friction bearings, thermal management, an innovative new turbo charger packaging and energy recuperation all play their part in this. But the most unique feature is the variable displacement system, combined with a sophisticated engine management system, which is able to make the transition from running as a V8 to running as a V4 under light throttle loads. With these systems in place the new V8 Continental models deliver a 40% reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, and are capable of driving for more than 500 miles on a single tank of fuel.
A high tech all-wheel drive system fitted on both models offers improved handling. It uses an advanced Torsen differential and a 40/60 rear biased power split.
At the front end of the new models is a black gloss matrix grille, with a chrome frame and centre bar, plus a red enamel Bentley badge. Meanwhile at the back they feature a unique chrome 'figure eight' tailpipe. 20-inch alloy wheels are included as standard for both models. On the inside of the cars Eliade cloth headlining is combined with Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneers.
Related used car searches
Search used Bentley
Search used Bentley
Search used Bentley Continental
