Bentley has announced that it will debut two new Continental V8 models in January 2012, at the American International Auto Show in Detroit.
A new twin-turbocharged V8 Continental GT coupé and a GTC convertible will debut on 9th January 2012 during the annual North American International Auto show.
Under the bonnet the cars will feature a new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, capable of delivering power of up to 500bhp at 6,000rpm and maximum torque of 487lb-ft between 1,700 – 5,000rpm.
The new engine has some very high-tech features. Variable displacement and an advanced engine management system will make sure that the transition from V8 to V4 mode under light throttle is unnoticeable. Other features include high pressure direct injection, low friction bearings, thermal management, a charging system for energy recuperation, and a new turbocharger designed with efficiency in mind.
This powerful new engine will be combined with a new close-ratio 8-speed automatic transmission. Together they are able to deliver a top speed of over 180mph, and will allow for acceleration from 0-60mph in less than 5 seconds. A sophisticated all-wheel-drive system will also be included, using a Torsen differential and 40:60 power split biased towards the rear wheels. The purpose of this is to make sure that the cars offer safe yet sporty handling under all driving conditions.
One of the main selling points of the new cars, however, will be their excellent power-to-emissions ratio. The release of the new V8 Continental models will fulfil a commitment made by Bentley to produce a new powertrain that delivers a 40% improvement in both CO2 emissions and fuel efficiency. Although the exact figures for these cars has yet to be announced, we do know that they will be able to travel more than 500 miles on a single tank.
Both the Continental GT coupé and the GTC convertible will feature a black gloss matrix grille with a centre bar and chrome frame, a red enamel Bentley badge, and a black matrix lower front bumper divided into three segments by distinctive body coloured strakes.
At the back of the cars there will be a dark lower valance, a red Bentley badge on the boot lid, and a distinctive chrome 'figure eight' exhaust pipe.
They will also both come with 20 inch alloys as standard, and with an optional upgrade to 21 inch six spoke alloy wheels in either Diamond Black or Diamond Silver finish.
The interior will include Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneers, Eliade cloth headlining, and the option of a two-tone colour split and short centre console.
The new V8 Continentals will fit into the Bentley range beneath the firm's flagship 6.0-litre 12-cylinder Continental GT and GTC, which deliver an even more impressive power output of 631bhp.
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