The official debut of the new Bentley Continental GT V8 coupe will take place at the 2012 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition. Outstanding levels of power and emissions are achieved by the new 4.0 litre, twin turbocharged Continental GT V8, and its convertible counterpart the Continental GTC V8. This notable new Bentley V8 engine offers maximum power of 500 bhp (507 PS / 373 Kw) at 6000 rev/min and an amazing peak torque of 660 Nm (487 lb ft) which is offered throughout the rev range from 1700 to 5000 rev/min, offering terrific performance and smooth power delivery in the Bentley tradition. It is mated to a new close-ratio 8-speed automatic transmission. This results to a zero to 60mph acceleration rate of 4.6 seconds for the GT coupe and a top speed of 188 mph (303 km/h).
It could also accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. In addition, the new V8 Continental models can attain excellent levels of fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions for the luxury performance sector. They can be driven more than 500 miles (800 km) on one tank of fuel. These new V8 Continental models are in line with Bentley’s environmental commitment to create a new powertrain that offers a 40% improvement in fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions. The new V8 engine offers variable displacement with a very advanced engine management system to guarantee a harmonious and imperceptible transition from V8 to V4 mode under a light throttle load.
The features of this very sophisticated V8 include high pressure direct injection, low friction bearings, thermal management, energy recuperation through the charging system, and new turbo charger packaging for more efficiency. What makes the new 4.0 litre V8 engine different from other Bentley engines is its highly distinctive growl. The two new Continental V8 models show their strong, muscular quality and are recognizable by a black gloss matrix grille with chrome frame and centre bar, a red enamel Bentley ‘B’ badge, as well as a black matrix three-segment lower front bumper split by body-colored strakes.
