Sharper Continental GT S, GTC S unveiled

BENTLEY has added S variants of its V8-powered Continental GT coupe and GTC convertible to its line-up. The new GT S and GTC S offer customers what the Crewe-based firm says is a renewed focus on driving pleasure.

The S-trimmed variants sport two-tone interior trim, black exterior garnishing, a sports exhaust, red-painted calipers and new 21- and 22-inch alloy wheel designs. They’re powered by Bentley’s 405kW and 770Nm twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8, which can propel the 2164kg Continental coupe or convertible from zero to 100km/h in just 4.0 seconds.

Combined cycle fuel economy is listed at 23.3 litres per 100km and CO2 emissions at 284 grams per kilometre.

The British grand tourers also feature Bentley’s 48V Dynamic Ride active anti-roll system to help maintain mid-corner poise, performance-focused instrumentation graphics, and nods to the S treatment throughout, including on the sill covers and head restraints.

“From the black gloss radiator grille and black brightware to distinctive S badging on the front fenders, the (variants) make an instant and dramatic impact. Headlamps and rear lights are dark tinted, while all exterior brightware is specified in gloss black – with only the winged Bentley badge and lettering finished in bright chrome,” said Bentley.

“(A) gloss black wing builds on the darker exterior look... The effect of these features is dramatic, giving the GT S and GT S a more assertive stance regardless of the limitless choice of exterior colours they’re paired with.”

The opulent cabin of the Continental GT S and GTC S is “performance focused”, Bentley says, and features a Dinamica-trimmed steering wheel, gear lever, seat cushion and seat backrest, with leather hide featured on the seat bolsters, door pads, instrument panel cowl and around the console. Quilted upholstery is available as a no-cost option.

Bentley says the Continental GT and GTC S pair will be available in Australia in the first quarter of next year and that pricing will be advised closer to the model's launch.

The third-generation Continental is likely nearing the end of its product lifecycle as the marque moves to become fully electric.

Indeed, the W12-powered Continental GT Speed has already received its marching orders and is effectively on run-out as stricter emissions regulations take their toll.

The 485kW and 900Nm behemoth displaces 6.0 litres and is paired with 48V mild hybrid technology and a Porsche-sourced eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Continental GT Speed is said to catapult from zero to 100km/h in just 3.6 seconds.

The Volkswagen Group’s W12 engine comprises four banks of three cylinders with each double bank set at a 72-degree angle. The undersquare powerplant is fed by a pair of turbochargers and features continuous variable valve timing for the intake and exhaust camshafts, electronically controlled Bosch throttle bodies and combination multipoint and direct fuel injection.

The engine has seen service in a range of VAG models, including the Audi A8, Bentley Continental GT and Flying Spur, and Volkswagen Phaeton and Touareg.

2022 Bentley Continental GT pricing*:

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.