American tuning specialist Vorsteiner has released details, pictures and a video of its new BR-10 tuning package for Bentley’s latest Continental GT model, consisting of a 5-piece lightweight carbon fiber aerodynamic kit and a new home-made set of alloy wheels.

The aerodynamic/aesthetic kit includes a two-piece front spoiler with central splitter, side skirts with lower section in lacquered carbon, a deck lid spoiler and an add-on diffuser, while a wide range of one- and multi-piece wheels - which can be custom powder coated or painted to suit the owners’ tastes - is also on offer. For the record, the model pictured in the photo gallery wears 22″ VS-130 series forged aluminum monoblock wheels fitted with high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tyres, whereas the one featured in the videoclip uses an original Bentely set.

View the full Bentley Continental GT BR-10 by Vorsteiner photo gallery

Bentley is at the 2012 North American International Auto Show introducing the renewed Continental GT and GTC with a brand new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine. As previously reported, this new engine boasts direct injection technology and derives from the unit used by the new Audi S6, S7 and S8. One of its most interesting features is that it is capable of automatic switching to an energy-saving V4 mode (deactivating 4 cylinders) whenever the car is traveling at low speed. The new engine delivers 507 hp at 6,000 rpm, with 660 Nm (487 lb/ft) of maximum torque available between 1,700 and 5.000 rpm. Both Bentley Continental GT and GTC will have its power delivered to all four wheels through Bentley’s signature 8-speed automatic transmission: the GT will go from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.6 seconds, while the GTC will need 4.8 seconds to hit that same speed. Both models are credited with a top speed of 303 km/h (188 mph) and a full autonomy of about 800 km.

The V8 versions can be told apart from the W12 variants by their shiny black front grille with chrome outlines, the red ‘B’ badges and the different front bumper, with three integrated air intakes. However, the most distinguishing features have to be the newly designed tail pipes and the 20″ alloys. Specifically designed 21″ 6-spoke rims are also available as optional extras in two colors: Diamond Black (which is an exclusive color for the V8s) and Diamond Silver, while the passenger compartment also gets some changes in the form of Eliade cloth headlining, Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneers, optional two-tone leather and short center console.

Right below you will find the links to access the official photo gallery released by the British automaker as well as a bunch of snap shots taken from our friends from Autoblog.it at the Detroit event. For more info on the new Bentley Continental V8 range, see Bentely’s official Press Release after the jump.

View the full Bentley Continental GT and GTC V8 at the 2012 NAIAS photo gallery
View the full Bentley Continental V8 GT and GTC photo gallery

THE NEW BENTLEY CONTINENTAL V8 RANGE

- New Continental GT and GTC V8 models will debut at the North American International Auto Show, Detroit (January 2012)
- Exceptional power-to-emissions ratio combined with classic Bentley power and torque from new 4.0 litre twin-turbo V8 engine
- Fulfils Bentley’s environmental commitment to a new powertrain delivering a 40 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions
- Advanced technologies include direct injection, variable displacement, new close-ratio 8-speed transmission and all wheel-drive
- New Continental V8 model range complements the flagship 6.0 litre W12 GT and GTC

(Crewe 12th December, 2011) Two new Bentley Continental V8 models will be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on 9th January 2012.

The new 4.0 litre, twin turbocharged V8 Continental GT coupé and GTC convertible achieve exceptional standards for power-to-emissions in the high luxury sports car sector.

This remarkable, new Bentley V8 engine delivers maximum power of 500bhp (507PS/373Kw) at 6000 rev/min and an extraordinary peak torque of 660Nm (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 (0-100km/h) sprint and a top speed of over 180mph (290km/h).

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 (800km) 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, muscular 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.

At the rear, unique chromed ‘figure eight’ exhaust tailpipes, a dark lower valance and red enamel ‘B’ bootlid 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 631bhp (640PS).

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 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 bootlid and wheel centres
7 exterior colours offered in standard range

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
Over 500 miles (800km) range on one tank of fuel
Distinctive V8 growl
All-wheel drive system with 40:60 rear biased torque split

To see the latest Continental V8 film please go to www.youtube.com/bentleymotors.

Bentley introduces its brand new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 at the 2012 North American International Auto Show, an engine that will power the renewed Continental GT and GTC. This unit is not as frightening as Bentely’s 6.0-litre W12 - which will remain at top of the range - but nonetheless it boasts an absolutely excellent delivery as well as reducing the overall carbon footprint of the British carmaker (although no official consumption figures have been released).

The new engine derives from the pretty similar unit that has been recently launched for the new Audi S6, S7 and S8, and makes use of a number of innovations such as direct injection and automatic variable displacement to V4 when traveling at low speed. The new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 delivers 507 hp at 6,000 rpm with 660 Nm (487 lb/ft) of maximum torque available between 1,700 and 5.000 rpm. Both Bentley Continental GT and GTC will have its power delivered to all four wheels through Bentley’s signature 8-speed automatic transmission: the GT will go from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.6 seconds, while the GTC will need 4.8 seconds to hit that same speed. Both models are credited with a top speed of 303 km/h (188 mph) and a full autonomy of about 800 km.

The V8 versions can be told apart from the W12 variants by their shiny black front grille with chrome outlines, the red ‘B’ badges and the different front bumper, with three integrated air intakes. However, the most distinguishing features have to be the newly designed tail pipes and the 20″ alloys. Specifically designed 21″ 6-spoke rims are also available as optional extras in two colors: Diamond Black (which is an exclusive color for the V8s) and Diamond Silver, while the passenger compartment also gets some changes in the form of Eliade cloth headlining, Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneers, optional two-tone leather and short center console. Here is the official photo gallery released by the carmaker.

View the full Bentley Continental GT and GTC V8 photo gallery

Renowned German tuner Mansory releases some official photo of its latest tuning program, dedicated to the W12 version of the Bentley Continental GT. The aerodynamic kit provides the British two-door model with an even more sporty flavor and consists of a new front apron with lip spoiler, re-designed rear bumper with integrated diffuser, side skirts, larger front fenders and even a new bonnet plus front grille made of carbon fibre.

Mansory also optimizes the performance of the standard 6.0-litre bi-turbo engine with re-calibrated ECU, sports air filter and a new sports exhaust system, boosting the Continental GT’s output up to 672 hp (at 6,000 revs) with 780 Nm of torque (at 1,700 rpm).

As for the interior, Mansory uses the finest fabrics and materials combined with the usual carbon inserts here and there. The German tuner will offer a wide range of 22″ alloys for the model, as well as customized aluminum pedals, carmats and illuminated door sill plates.

As it just happened with the new BMW 6-series Gran Coupe, Bentley just introduced the new Continental GT with some official pic and then, shortly afterwards, released some new video featuring their latest creation. Since we just posted an extensive article about the new model, all you need to do to find out about its technical highlights and is scrolling down this page a little bit.

This new Bentley Continental GT is powered by a brand new 4.0-litre twin turbo V8 with direct injection and will be officially unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit next January. To see the second video click on the ‘Continue Reading’ link below.

Bentley releases the first official pictures of the Continental GT powered by a brand new 4.0-litre twin turbo V8 with direct injection that will be made immediately available for the GTC as well. Both model will be officially introduced at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit (January 9-22). The new engine delivers an output of 500 hp at 6,000 rpm with 660 Nm of peak torque between 1,700 and 5,000 rpm, and boasts a 40% improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the 12-cylinder unit. However, the flagship W12 will not go out of production but will remain at the top of the range, focusing on unrivalled comfort and refinement.

The new engine has been built and developed with the cooperation of Audi’s engineers, and uses an interesting variable-displacement system that enables the engine to run on only four cylinders under partial throttle load. This feature allows it to significantly reduce its CO2 emissions, with obvious benefits in terms of fuel consumption as well. Bentley says it will be capable of travelling over 800 km (about 500 miles) on a single tank of fuel, which is quite astonishing for a car of this class and size. This engine is coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission that will convey its power all four wheels, permanently.

This classy coupe from the British manufacturer can be distinguished from its W12 counterpart by the specific design of its chrome exhaust pipes, the glossy black radiator grille with chrome outline, a slightly revised lower fascia in which the three air inlets are more evenly sized, and its set of six-spoke alloy wheels, specifically designed for the V8 version and available in 20″ or 21″ sizes. Besides, all of the Bentley “B” logos on the car front and back are surrounded by red paint rather than the usual black. Inside, there’s a new Eliade cloth headlining with Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus wood veneers and optional two-tone leather. The Continental GT V8 will offer a choice of seven exterior and four interior colors, while three different hood shades will also be made available. Click on the ‘Continue Reading’ link below to find out more.

View Bentley Continental GT V8 official pictures

Bentley is yet to reveal the official performance figures for the new Continental GT, but it is believed that it will have a 0-100 km/h (62 mph) sprint time of less than 5 seconds and a top speed in the 290 km/h area (approximately 180 mph). In the same fashion, although no official data on the matter are currently available, it is believed that the average fuel consumption will be about 10.6 km/l, with roughly 265 g/km of CO2 emissions. The new continental GT V8 should become available in the showrooms this coming January, with an estimated price of 140,000 € (187,000 $ - 120,000£).

Influential British magazine Autoexpress has tested the amazing Bentley Continental GTC - arguably one of the most exclusive and fast convertible cars available on the market - and uploaded some footage on its youtube page. The clip highlights basically all of the most distinctive features of this new version, which are as outstanding as you would expect from a car of such prestige and heritage.

The new Continental GTC however will be 100kg heavier than the coupe GT version it derives from, and will be made available at Bentley’s showrooms by the end of this year.

Both imperious and audacious, to borrow a couple of adjectives from the following set of names - Imperium Automotive has created this new Bentley Continental GT tuning called Audentia. The Scottish automative design house is on British home turf with the Bentley model, which will become part of its portfolio of design work on the Bentley and Bugatti brands.

The Continental GT Audentia has a new body kit with restyled front bumper and side skirts, bespoke grille and new rear end which includes a diffuser and four exhaust pipes. That looks like a new paint job to us, too. You had better have your chequebook ready though. The Bentley Continental GT already costs abut 190,000 euros and this tuning job starts at £25,000 (about €28,600).

Source | Carscoop

Bentley will produce an extreme version of its new coupe, which will probably be called Continental GT2. Despite the name, at the moment there are no plans for a future in GT racing for this car as it is an altogheter different project than the previous Supersport version. In an interview with AutoExpress, Bentley’s CEO Wolfgang Durheimer said that the new car is aimed at a more purist and demanding custom base, therefore the four-wheel drive will be dropped in favour of rear-wheel drive and a lot of work will be done to provide the GT2 with the best possible power-to-weight ratio.

The Continental GT2 should weight 2000 kg (200kg less than the standard model) and deliver more than 650hp (100hp more the regular coupe), although it is not clear whether this power will come from the already well known W12 engine or from a new enhanced version of the Twin Turbo V8 that was recently introduced by the latest Audi A6 and S8 models. However, it is believed that the Continental GT2 will have a 0-100km/h sprint time of less than four seconds and a top speed of 320km/h. GT2 aside, Bentley is planning to introduce a GT Speed version of the car as a more user-friendly alternative to the basic model. Last but not least, Durheimer also confirmed that -unlike the Supersport -the GT2 is going to be a four-seater as the 2 seats configuration is not considered the best option for this kind of vehicle.

View the full New Bentley Continental GT photo gallery.

“If you’ve got 225 grand to spend on a luxury limousine, you won’t be disappointed.” That’s just as well for the Bentley Mulsanne. In this driving video from Autocar, we get the full tour inside and out of the new Mulsanne and it looks just sumptuous.

We also go on a little drive through English country backroads to see how the Mulsanne drives. While its driving feel might not be quite up to the standards of a Rolls Royce, it is intended to be a comfortable, floaty vehicle with just enough repsonse to satisfy the driver.

It’s telling that according to Bentley, 80 percent of its Mulsanne customers will want to drive it and not just be chauffered so there is something to be said for the driving feel. And how could you possibly go past the fact that traditional leather work techniques have been used because they smell better…? See how the Bentley Mulsanne drives in the video above.

If you thought the Bentley Continental GT Coupé was already hot, you haven’t seen it with its top off yet. The new Bentley Continental GTC drops the top of that previous model for a gorgeous, all-out luxurious convertible. Keeping things elegant and somewhat traditional on the Continental GTC is a soft top roof with automatic folding mechanism.

Otherwise the Continental in cabrio form is what you’d expect. It’s equipped with the six-litre, W12 twin-turbo engine of the hard top with 575 hp and 700 Nm of torque. It gets a six-speed transmission with paddle shift, a sprint time to 100 km/hr of 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 314 km/hr.

Obviously, at a price of over 170,000 euros you get some serious Bentley luxury sitting on 20-inch wheels. Otherwise you can get the optional 21-inch wheels and other goodies like carbon ceramic brakes. Tune in for our live pics of the Bentley Continental GTC from the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

There’s nothing like a little bingle out the front of the Monte Carlo casino in your Bentley Azure to really piss you off on your posh summer shopping trip. In these pics of a supercar pile-up in Monte Carlo a smattering of the world’s rich got their cars scratched by one woman driving said Bentley Azure.

The open-top Bentley managed to plough into a Mercedes S-Class in a prang which created a chain reaction involving a few other expensive vehicles - namely an Aston Martin Rapide, Porsche 911 and a Ferrari F430. That makes for quite an expensive insurance claim. Check out the fun the tourists had taking the pictures below.

Source | Daily Mail