Bentley Continental V8 coming in 2012
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Two new Bentley Continental V8 models will be unveiled at
the Detroit Motor Show in USA next month.
The new 4.0 litre, twin turbocharged V8 Continental GT coupé and GTC convertible expand the brand's
presence in the high-end luxury sports car sector.
This remarkable, new Bentley V8 engine delivers maximum power of 373 kW (500 bhp/507 PS) at 6,000
rev/min and an extraordinary peak torque of 660 Nm (487 lb ft) which is available across virtually the
entire rev range from 1,700 to 5,000 rev/min, providing exhilarating performance and effortless power
delivery in the Bentley tradition. Combined with a new close-ratio 8-speed automatic transmission, this
translates into an about 5 second acceleration time for the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint and a top speed
of over 290 km/h (180 mph).
At the same time, the new V8 Continental models achieve outstanding levels of fuel efficiency and CO2
emissions for the luxury performance sector and are capable of travelling over 800 km (500 miles) on a
single tank of fuel. Full and official figures will be released in early 2012.
The arrival of the new V8 Continental models fulfils Bentley’s environmental commitment to produce a
new powertrain that delivers a 40 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions.
The new V8 engine features variable displacement with a highly sophisticated engine management system,
ensuring a seamless and imperceptible transition from V8 to V4 mode under light throttle load.
The high-technology V8 also features high pressure direct injection, low friction bearings, thermal
management, energy recuperation via the charging system, and innovative turbo charger packaging for greater
efficiency.
The instantly recognisable growl of the new 4.0 litre V8 engine sets it apart from its Bentley
stablemates.
The new V8 engine will be available in two models; the Continental GT and the Continental GTC.
Expressing their potent 'character', these models are distinguished by a black gloss matrix grille with
chrome frame and centre bar, a red enamel Bentley ‘B’ badge, and a black matrix three-segment lower front
bumper divided by distinctive body-coloured strakes.
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At the rear, unique chromed ‘figure eight’ exhaust tailpipes, a dark lower valance and red enamel ‘B’
boot lid badge emphasise the sporty, contemporary identity of the new V8s.
Both models are specified with 20-inch alloy wheels as standard with an optional 21-inch six-spoke
design which is available in dramatic Diamond Black (exclusive to the Continental V8) or Diamond Silver
finishes.
Inside the cabin, an Eliade cloth headlining, new contemporary Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneers,
optional two-tone leather colour split and short centre console continue the fresh, sporting design
theme.
The two new Continental models will be offered beneath the flagship 6.0 litre, 12-cylinder engined
Continental GT and GTC, which continue to excite customers with a combination of silken refinement and the
ultimate power of the twin-turbocharged W12 Continental engine that, in its most potent form, delivers
an astonishing 631 bhp (640 PS).
Both new models feature a state-of-the-art, all-wheel drive system employing an advanced Torsen
differential and a 40:60 rear biased power split. This ensures safe yet dynamic sports car handling in all
road conditions.
Since the launch of the original GT in 2003, the W12-engined Continental range has gone from strength
to strength with over 50,000 sales worldwide, making Bentley’s factory in Crewe, England, the largest
producer of 12 cylinder engines in the world. The W12 story continues to unfold and remains the ultimate
expression of Bentley’s engineering strength.
Commenting on the launch of the new V8 Continental models, Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and Chief
Executive, Bentley Motors said: “With the new 4.0 litre V8 engine we are widening the appeal of the
latest generation of Continentals, introducing a completely new driving experience. The new engine will
have all the exhilarating power, drama and performance you would expect from a V8 engine sporting the
famous Bentley wings, effortlessly delivered with our characteristic ‘wave of torque’. This is
complemented by innovative powertrain technology that delivers exceptional fuel efficiency and
emissions.”
THE NEW BENTLEY CONTINENTAL V8 MODELS - 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 boot lid and wheel centres
- 7 exterior colours offered in standard range
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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 litre 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
- Distinctive V8 growl
- All-wheel drive system with 40:60 rear biased torque split
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