Bentley is poised to launch a new, high-performance Continental GT model, the Supersports, marking a significant shift in the brand’s approach to driving dynamics. This upcoming car, set for official unveiling on November 14th in New York, aims to rival the Aston Martin Vanquish and Ferrari 12Cilindri, emphasizing a more driver-focused experience.
A New Era for the Continental GT
Bentley is touting the new Supersports as the “lightest, most driver-focused” Continental GT ever produced. The release of a second teaser image follows an initial glimpse last month, which showcased a modified Continental GT with an aggressive rear end featuring a large spoiler, redesigned bumper, and more pronounced diffuser. The latest image provides a closer look at the front wheel and reveals extensive carbon-fiber trim along the sills, confirming the “Supersports” badge.
Key Design Hints and Potential Performance
The second image offers further clues about the car’s design and potential. The presence of matte paint and copper-colored detailing, coupled with carbon-ceramic disc brakes visible behind a multi-spoke wheel, suggest a focus on both aesthetics and high-performance braking. These details, combined with the Supersports moniker, indicate that this new model will be a significant step up from the standard Continental GT.
Rear-Wheel Drive and Engine Speculation
A key revelation accompanying the second image is that the new Bentley Supersports will be the first rear-wheel-drive Continental GT in the car’s history. This move towards a more traditional setup, coupled with the discontinuation of Bentley’s W12 engine and the V8’s hybrid configuration, suggests a return to a purer driving experience.
Experts anticipate the Supersports will feature a highly tuned version of the twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine, stripped of its hybrid components. While a 542bhp version of this engine has been utilized in previous Continental models, the more powerful 12-cylinder engine previously limited the V8’s potential output. Connected to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, the engine could potentially achieve a power output comparable to the Porsche Panamera Turbo S—up to 631bhp.
Limited Production and Premium Pricing
Bentley has confirmed that the new Supersports will be produced in a limited run, details of which have yet to be released. Given its performance credentials and premium features, the new flagship Continental GT is expected to be the most expensive model in the range, with an estimated starting price close to £300,000. The official unveiling will take place on November 14th at 01:30 GMT.
The return of the Supersports name and the introduction of rear-wheel drive signify a renewed focus on driving dynamics and performance within Bentley’s Continental GT lineup. This represents a clear signal of Bentley’s intention to compete directly with high-performance rivals like Aston Martin and Ferrari.
