The New Bentley Continental V8 Models

John Eagle European is pleased to announce that two new Bentley Continental V8 models will be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 9, 2012.

“The new 4 liter, twin turbocharged V8 Continental GT coupé and GTC convertible meet Bentley’s exceptional standards in the high luxury sports car sector,” stated the principal dealer at John Eagle European’s Bentley of Austin. “The V8 powered cars are a wonderful compliment to the V12 versions of the car currently available through our dealership.”

This remarkable, new Bentley V8 engine delivers maximum power of 500bhp at 6000 rev/min and an extraordinary peak torque of 487 lb. ft. which is available across virtually the entire rev range from 1700 to 5000 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 a sub-5 second acceleration time for the 0-60 mph sprint and a top speed of over 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 500 miles on a single tank of fuel. Full and official figures will be released in early 2012.

Commenting on the launch of the new V8 Continental models, Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive, Bentley Motors said, “With the new 4.0 Liter 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 arrival of the new V8 Continental models fulfills 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 recognizable growl of the new 4.0 Liter V8 engine sets it apart from its Bentley stable mates.

The new V8 engine will be available in two models; the Continental GT and the Continental GTC. Expressing their potent, muscular character, these models are distinguished by a black gloss matrix grille with chrome frame and center bar, a red enamel Bentley ‘B’ badge, and a black matrix three-segment lower front bumper divided by distinctive body-colored strakes.

At the rear, unique chromed ‘figure eight’ exhaust tailpipes, a dark lower valance and red enamel ‘B’ bootlid badge emphasize 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 color split and short center console continue the fresh, sporting design theme.

The two new Continental models will be offered beneath the flagship 6.0 Liter,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 631bhp.

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.

To learn more about the new V8 powered Bentleys, call John Eagle European’s Bentley Austin at (512) 236-8539 or visit the website at http://www.bentleyofaustin.com/.