Volume 15 Issue 1 » 49
2019 Bentley Continental GT
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The Continental GT has long been regarded as the car that
transitioned the old stodgy Bentley image to what it is today.
Bentley claims that its all-new third-generation Continental GT
is the best yet, combining spirited and focused performance with
handcrafted luxury and cutting-edge technology.
At first glance, one can see that the new car has been heavily
inspired by the critically acclaimed EXP 10 Speed 6 concept car.
While still retaining the classic elegance of the first Continental
GT, the form of the new car is much more sculptural and sharply
defined.
Under the hood beats a W12 heart that has been newly enhanced.
The revised 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged 12-cylinder engine now
generates 626 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque. The engine also sits farther
back in the chassis, improving weight distribution, and hence the
car’s dynamic performance. For the first time, this engine is mated to
a dual-clutch transmission for much faster gear changes.
A new active all-wheel-drive system favours rear-wheel drive for
optimum efficiency and dynamic performance. Based on the road
conditions and driver’s behaviour, the system will send drive power
to the front axle as required.
A 48-volt Dynamic Ride System has been fitted to create the car’s
new and technically advanced adaptive chassis. Freed from the
capacity limitations of 12 volts, the new system controls ride comfort
and lateral roll, ensuring a far more responsive ride, exceptional
handling, and refinement in all road conditions.
When it arrives, the third-generation Bentley Continental
GT coupé should continue to live up to its reputation as the
quintessential grand tourer – phenomenally powerful, beautifully
designed and exquisitely crafted.