The second generation of the Bentley Continental GT was first introduced in 2011 as a 2012 model. This grand tourer shares its underpinnings with the Audi A8 and Volkswagen Phaeton, but features a unique exterior design and luxurious interior. The V8 engine is one of four powertrain options available for this generation.
Engine
The Continental GT V8 is powered by a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. It produces 500 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 487 lb-ft of torque at 1,700 rpm. This allows the car to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 4.3 seconds.
Transmission
The Continental GT V8 features an 8-speed automatic transmission with a manual mode that enables the driver to take control of gear shifts manually using paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
Performance
With its powerful engine and smooth transmission, the Continental GT V8 can reach a top speed electronically limited to 198 mph. It also boasts excellent handling capabilities thanks to its sophisticated suspension system featuring adaptive damping and rear self-leveling.
Design
The Continental GT V8 has a sleek and aerodynamic body design with a curved roofline, sloping bonnet, and LED headlights. The interior is luxurious and spacious, featuring premium leather upholstery, aluminum trim, and wooden accents. A large 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is also available as an option.
Safety Features
The Continental GT V8 features a range of advanced safety systems including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot detection, and rear cross traffic alert. It also has a 5-star Euro NCAP rating for its crashworthiness and occupant protection.
Dimensions and Capacity
The Continental GT V8 measures 203.7 inches (516 cm) in length, 75.2 inches (191 cm) in width, and 55.3 inches (140 cm) in height. It has a wheelbase of 118.1 inches (300 cm). The interior can accommodate up to four passengers depending on the configuration.
Colors and Trim
The Continental GT V8 is available in a range of exterior colors including colors like Beluga, Onyx Black Pearl, Azure Blue Crystal, and a special Diamond Black Metallic that's unique to Bentley models. As for trim options, buyers have three choices: Standard, Mulliner (a higher-end option), or the bespoke interior design offered by Bentley's Customization department.
Price
The Continental GT V8 was priced at around $198,000 when it first launched in 2011 but increased over the years to about $215,000 for a base model in its final year of production.
