Bentley has revealed the first details on its updated Continental GT, which is set to debut in June.
It will be the first model to feature the recently revealed plug-in hybrid V-8 powertrain that Bentley will use to replace its venerable twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter W-12.
The W-12 ceases production this summer, and Bentley launched the coachbuilt Batur and Batur Convertible models to celebrate the engine’s run. The W-12 delivers a peak of 740 hp in those models, its highest rating for any Bentley, but the new plug-in hybrid V-8 setup, known as the Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain, delivers even more juice.
Bentley on Thursday said the electrified V-8 will deliver 771 hp in the updated Continental GT, in addition to a pure electric range of about 50 miles.
Other updates planned for the car include a revised all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring, rear-wheel steering, an electronic limited-slip differential, an electronic anti-roll system, and dual-valve dampers that enable adjustment of both rebound and compression, resulting in a wider bandwidth between comfort and handling control.
Camouflaged prototypes have been spotted testing for more than a year, but teaser photos released alongside Thursday’s announcement reveal some of the styling changes that will take place. New single-element headlights similar to those used on the Bacalar coachbuilt speedster replace the current model’s dual-element lights. The oval taillights have also been made longer and slimmer on the updated model.
The current Continental GT went on sale in 2018 as a 2019 model. The updated model should arrive in the U.S. as a 2025 model. An updated Continental GT Convertible is also due soon.
