Bentley unveils new Continental GT in SA

Based on an initial brief in 1998, which included broadening the Bentley brand's appeal, being more sporting, offering four seats with luggage space, delivering supercar performance, and being built in Crewe, the Continental GT has consistently improved and stayed true to that original philosophy. I attended a static launch of the new model recently, and here's what I learned.

Related: Bentley Continental GT Speed (2022) Review

Updated design

The fourth-generation Continental GT retains the three key design lines that have defined its silhouette: the powerful power line, the muscular haunch, and the elegant sloping roofline. However, a closer look reveals a bold evolution, bringing a fresh and modern aesthetic to this instantly recognisable icon.

The haunch is a design trope in the GT range!

The most significant visual change in two decades is the all-new front end. While Bentleys have historically featured round headlamps, the new Continental GT adopts a 'Focused Eye' expression. Single elliptical headlights intersect with a horizontal light bar, creating a determined and focused gaze akin to a predatory tiger. To my eyes, the front-end is more cohesive and attractive than previous generations.

The rear-end has also been transformed, with a new bumper, taillights, boot lid, and exhaust tailpipes creating a more dramatic and cleaner aesthetic. 

The rear lights are said to have a lava-like quality to their appearance

Completing the striking exterior are new 22-inch wheels with a strongly directional design theme. These wheels can be finished in a dark tint paint with polished accents.

The new wheels are a solid upgrade over the items fitted to previous models

Interior

Bentley claims that the GT's interior is arguably the most beautiful and exquisitely executed interior in the world. The new precision quilt pattern on the seats and doors, and bright or dark chrome trim, allow owners to personalise the cabin's character. The interior design creates a 'cocoon' effect around the occupants, emphasising comfort and luxury.

One does have a sense that they're enveloped when sitting inside the new GT

Hybrid drivetrain

The brand's Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain powers the new GT. This system combines a significantly updated 4.0-litre V8 engine producing 441kW with a 140kW electric motor, resulting in a combined power output of 575kW. The hybrid system features a 25.9 kWh battery mounted behind the rear axle, with 95% of its capacity being usable. The battery allows for full EV driving of up to 80km, and a top speed of 160 km/h, and can be charged using the combustion engine or via a cable, making it a plug-in hybrid.

The performance figures are impressive, with 0-100 km/h taking a claimed 3.2 seconds and the top speed at 335 km/h. Power is delivered to all four wheels via an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and an electronic rear differential.

Bentley Performance Active Chassis

The new GT models get the Bentley Performance Active Chassis, incorporating the latest chassis technologies such as:

• Active All-Wheel Drive
• Electronic Limited Slip Differential
• All-Wheel Steering
• Torque Vectoring (front to rear and across axles)
• Bentley Dynamic Ride active anti-roll system
• New generation ESC software

Pricing 

The new Bentley Continental GT range is priced from R5 269 000, including a 3-year/100 000 km Driveplan.