Bentley will use the eight-speed automatic gearbox on its GT and GTC models. This type of gearbox was recently seen on the GT Speed. The current six-speed ’box is replaced by the close-ratio unit from ZF. The updated cars will start delivery this October. This has the same time-scale as the GT Speed. With this new gearbox, the 567bhp W12-equipped GT is able to accelerate from zero to 60mph by 0.1sec faster to 4.3sec. It also drives the Continental GTC to make the 0-60mph sprint faster by 0.3sec to 4.4sec. The Continental GT can move from zero to 100mph in under 10.0sec at 9.8sec while the GTC can achieve this in 10.3sec. Both cars’ fuel economy ratings were also given a boost by the gearbox. The GT has improved its fuel economy rating from 17.1mpg to 19.5mpg, and its CO2 emissions have been reduced from 384g/km to 338g/km. Previously, the GTC shared its economy and CO2 figures with the GT. But because of the eight-speed gearbox, it now offers fuel economy of 19.0mpg and a CO2 emissions level of 347g/km.
Bentley Continental GT/GTC will get new eight-speed automatic gearbox
by Andrew Christian, Email, 23 Aug, 2012
