Bentley Motors has unveiled the latest evolution of its iconic grand tourers, the Continental GT and Continental GTC. The fourth generation of the Continental family introduces a new High-Performance Hybrid powertrain and a refreshed Azure specification which upgrades the comfort and wellness aspects of Bentley's two-door models.
The new models join the previous Ultra High-Performance ones and stay true to the unmistakable elegance and craftsmanship associated with the Bentley Continental. Bentley also introduced a new Flying Spur model but we only report on sports cars and grand tourers, so we're ignoring the Flying Spur.
Under the hood of the new cars is a hybrid powertrain that pairs Bentley's 4.0-liter V8 engine with a powerful electric motor. Together, they produce 680 PS (approximately 671 hp) and 930 Nm of torque. This hybrid setup surpasses the previous generation's W12-powered Speed models in both power and responsiveness.
The Continental GT accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, while the GTC completes the same sprint in 3.8 seconds. Beyond raw speed, the cars can also operate in electric-only mode for up to 53 miles (85 km for the GT) and 51 miles (82 km for the GTC), offering a blend of low-emission driving and exhilarating performance.
The exterior of the new Continental GT doesn't depart from its celebrated design lineage, with enhancements that subtly mark its evolution. A gloss black matrix grille with chrome borders and center bar dominates the front, complemented by bold, cut crystal inspired Harmony headlamps with bespoke welcome animations.
The lower bumper and splitter in gloss black, bright chrome tailpipes, and red lens Harmony animation taillights bring a modern edge to the grand tourer's classic silhouette. Inside, hand-crafted straight fluted seats and optional dark chrome detailing accentuate the refined cabin, while treadplates proudly bear the inscription: "Handcrafted in Crewe, England." (in case you didn't know, Bentley operates out of Crew).
The new models feature Bentley's Active Chassis System, incorporating Dynamic Ride, Rear Wheel Steering, and an electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD). This allows drivers to switch between Comfort, Bentley, and Sport modes, ensuring the driver feels in control regardless of the driving terrain.
Bentley also added Continental GT Azure and GTC Azure models, which place a greater emphasis on comfort, design detail, and passenger wellness. The Azure models feature a distinctive gloss black matrix grille with vertical vanes and bright chrome accents, along with a new 22" silver and bright machined Azure wheel. Azure badging on the fenders subtly distinguishes these models from their siblings.
Inside, the Azure models introduce a new 3D Harmony diamond quilting on the seats and door panels, with "Azure" embroidery on the headrests. An illuminated Azure treadplate, open pore crown cut walnut veneer trim, and wellness-focused seating with massage functionality welcome occupants. For the Continental GT Azure, a panoramic sunroof comes standard, while the GTC Azure includes a neck warmer, ensuring comfort even when driving with the top down.
The new Continental GT and GTC models illustrate Bentley's continued commitment to offering high-performance grand tourers that balance tradition with innovation without ignoring sustainability. With their subtle updated design, handcrafted interiors, and hybrid drivetrains, these cars illustrate Bentley's consistency in its tradition even while showing off cutting-edge innovation.
