2008 Bentley Continental GT Review

'Speed' is an Understatement

A new high-performance version of the Continental GT boosts the appeal of this posh performer.

The Bentley Continental GT is a monumental departure for this conservative British builder of ultra-rare and luxurious cars. It brings an entirely new look (albeit with hints of Bentleys of old), uses completely different technology than traditional models, and targets younger buyers with a low-six-figure price tag that's about half that of other Bentleys. Finally, the car seeks to bring upscale driving enthusiasts to the brand with the higher-performance GT Speed version, introduced for the 2008 model year.

The Bentley Continental GT is the first Bentley to use a compact, 6.0-liter W12 engine and all-wheel drive instead of traditional V8s or V12s with rear-wheel drive. The innovative engine and AWD system were developed by Bentley but are based on technology originally created by Volkswagen, which has owned Bentley since 1998.

• Bentley Continental GT Vehicle Summary

The Bentley Continental GT’s twin-turbocharged, 6.0-liter W12 produces in excess of 550 horsepower in the base model and 602 hp (with a top speed just over 200 mph) in the GT Speed version. The W12 is basically two V6 engines attached side by side. It’s more compact than a traditional V12 — which is typically longer, with two banks of six cylinders, rather than four banks of three cylinders, side by side — and allows for more efficient packaging and a larger interior. One feature that comes as a result of the efficient layout (not often seen on exotic cars) is a rear-seat pass-through, allowing skis and other long, narrow objects to be carried in the trunk.

All-wheel drive was chosen over rear-wheel drive for the Bentley Continental GT because it transfers the engine’s monstrous power more safely and effectively to the road. Sophisticated stability control, traction control and braking systems further enhance safety. The first two systems can be disabled to explore handling limits without electronic traction aids. The stability control system also includes a “Sport Traction” mode that moderates electronic intervention at low speeds (to allow tire-burning launches, for example), but remains at the ready to help bail out overly aggressive drivers at high speeds.

The GT Speed sits lower to the ground and includes steering and suspension modifications, along with grippier Pirelli P-Zero tires, for more precise handling without noticeably degrading the car’s smooth ride qualities.

The Bentley Continental GT is positioned as a modern evolution of classic Bentley coupes — such as the 1928 Speed Six and 1950 R-Type Continental — with a new look that retains some traditional styling cues. These include lines flowing over the wheel arches, the prominent mesh grille, a pillar-less side-window area and four round headlights, with the inner two larger than the outer two. The GT Speed carries minor styling tweaks to distinguish from the base coupe. If you’re looking closely enough, you'll see a tinted front grille and special exhaust tips.

• Read the full Bentley Continental GT Test Drive

But the overall shape of the Bentley Continental GT is distinctly un-Bentley, lacking the long hood and elegant rear end of older models. The compact W12 engine is the culprit: Past Bentleys required long hoods and engine compartments to accommodate their big V8 and V12 engines.

With supercar-like performance and handing, limousine-like luxury and four seats, the Bentley Continental GT is a well-rounded alternative to similarly priced, hardcore exotic sports cars from Aston Martin, Ferrari and Maserati. Its standard six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission is convenient and can be shifted manually using paddles behind the steering wheel, or with the gearshift lever between the front seats.

Occupants sit higher and more upright in the Bentley Continental GT than in lower-slung sports cars. The computer-controlled suspension system is infinitely adjustable, using sensors that track wheel and body motion to keep the tires on the road, regardless of road conditions.

The Bentley Continental GT’s interior is sumptuous and impeccably crafted, with buttery leather, rich wood and polished aluminum trim. The symmetric dashboard mimics Bentley’s winged logo and blends classic and modern styles. Two front airbags, as well as side and side-curtain airbags for all occupants, are standard.

• See all Bentley models in the Bentley Showroom

Ninety percent of all Bentleys are customized beyond the staggering standard list of interior trim and exterior paint choices, with the company’s Mulliner division able to satisfy virtually any whim.

Standard on the Bentley Continental GT Speed and optional on the base model, the Mulliner Driving Specification package adds pizzazz with larger alloy wheels and performance tires, drilled alloy pedals and footrest, a leather- and chrome-trimmed gearshift lever, and unique leather upholstery on the seats and headliner. A choice of dark-stained Burl Walnut or Piano Black trim can be specified at no additional cost.