2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible

Here are the first photos of the 2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible, ahead of its reveal at the Detroit Auto Show in January 2013

The convertible is powered by the 6.0-liter twin-turbo W12 engine pulled straight out of its hard-top twin, it develops 625-horsepower and 800 Nm of torque. It will be connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive system which will enable the model to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in approximately 4.2 seconds and hit a top speed of roughly 322 km/h (200 mph).

Cosmetically it’s more of the same GT Speed goodness as the coupe, with dark tinted matrix grills at the front, a rifled finish for the tailpipes, GT Speed alloys, the Mulliner Driving Pack with quilted leather and a smattering of ‘GT Speed’ Logos.

the Bentley GTC Speed retains the aggressive stance of the GT Speed sans the roof. While it’s fun to drive with open-top freedom, it does add some extra weight and hampers the stability of the vehicle, though none of these problems are of concern if you’re intent on torturing it at a track.

The GT Speed Convertible will get a permanent all-wheel drive and a Torsen differential as standard. It gets a new, close-ratio, ZF eight-speed automatic transmission with intelligent adaptive control software for smoother changes and a twelve percent increase in economy and CO2 emissions. The steering and suspension systems have been upgraded together with a lowered ride height. Complementing the new set up is a unique set of 21 inch Speed wheels with two finishes and 275/35 R21 Pirelli PZero ultra-high performance tyres.

European Economic Crisis May Lead to Delay of Bentley and Lamborghini SUVs

The ongoing European debt crisis was bound to touch even Germany's finest in one way or another. While Europe's biggest carmaker, the Volkswagen Group, doesn't have a problem yet, the company's decision makers believe it's wise to prepare for the worst and save some cash aside by putting on hold certain projects.

Inside sources told Autonews and Reuters that VW officials might delay the introductions of two new SUVs from Bentley and Lamborghini, among other vehicles.

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U Spy: A 2014 Bentley Continental Flying Spur in a Mercedes-Benz S-Class Costume

When not trying out cars like the V10-powered Lexus LFA at Silverstone, CarScoop reader Jean-Luc C. is as observant as a hawk. While on his way to work, Jean-Luc spotted an odd-looking Bentley and was quick enough to snap some quick spy shots for us with his cell phone.

"I took these shots on my way into work on the M6 (About 15 miles away from the Bentley Factory in Crewe)," he told us.

"It looked like a Continental Flying Spur - but a lot of tape and a terrible S-Class grille taped to the front. It is obviously something under cover being tested - But what?"

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Bentley Marks Return to Racing with New Continental GT3 Concept [w/Video]

Bentley has released initial details as well as a video of its Paris Motor Show-bound Continental GT3 Concept racer with which it will return to the racetrack for the first time after almost a decade when it scored its sixth Le Mans victory in 2003. Read more »

Bentley to Debut New Continental GT3 Concept at Paris Motor Show

The sports car concept that Bentley was rumored to unveil at the Paris Motor Show is the new Continental GT3, the first images of which were dropped onto the internet today.

There is no official information out on the concept yet, but the photos reveal a race-prepped model sporting a beefed up body kit with massive front and rear spoilers, a huge rear wing and additional air vents positioned throughout the body.

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Spy Shots: 2014 Bentley Continental Flying Spur Stretches its Legs on the Nürburgring

The development of the next four-door Bentley Continental Flying Spur continues with handling tests on the Nürburgring racetrack in Germany.

Following the sneaky disguises that made previous prototype models look like goofy Mercedes-Benz S-Class limos, Bentley's engineers have now dressed the Continental Flying Spur in a simpler, checkered-theme wrap.

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Bentley Mulsanne Convertible Concept Realistically Imagined

About a month ago, Bentley showed a Mulsanne Convertible Concept to a select few at the 2012 edition of the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. The automaker did not allow anyone to take pictures and simply told us about the special unveiling sharing a few sketches in the process.

The reason why Bentley is holding back remains a mystery but it may have something to do with all the negative press it received with the EXP 9 F SUV Concept.

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Luc Donckerwolke Takes Over Bentley's Design Division

Luc Donckerwolke, the man responsible for the styling of many Lamborghini models of recent times such as the Gallardo and Murcielago as well as plenty of Seat vehicles including the IBE and Tribu studies, has been named new Director of Design at Bentley replacing Dirk van Braeckel who moves to Volkswagen Group design directed by Walter de Silva.

The 47-year old designer from Belgium joins Bentley from his role as Head of Advanced Design for Volkswagen Group where he was appointed just last year.

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Bentley Mulsanne Convertible Concept

Bentley has previewed its new drop-top through a series of design sketches of its Mulsanne Convertible Concept. There are no details about the engine motivating the car but chances are that it will have the same power unit as a sedan so expect to see a V8 6.75-liter with 505 hp (377 kW / 512 PS) and 752 lb-ft (1020 Nm) of torque.

The sketches confirm the Mulsanne Convertible will share its fundamental design with the hardtop, featuring an upright grille and prominent bonnet ornament, heavily raked windscreen, flowing profile lines, muscular rear haunches and a long rear overhang.

The sketches of the Convertible suggest it will use a large folding soft top, and boast four seats. Its dimensions are likely to remain very close to the standard Mulsanne’s, making it around 5.5 metres long and 2m wide, with a 3.2m wheelbase. Those figures make it almost identical in size to the Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe, which the production Mulsanne Convertible will be a direct rival to. It’s likely to possess a similar, £250,000-plus price tag too.



Press Release

(Crewe, England. 20 August 2012). Since its debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in 2009, the Mulsanne saloon remains a pure example of the Grand Touring Bentley, combining coach-built elegance and hand-crafted luxury with immense power and sportiness at the pinnacle of British luxury motoring.

Now with the Mulsanne Convertible Concept, Bentley's designers are providing a glimpse into the potential future of the marque's flagship family. Appealing to automotive connoisseurs seeking the ultimate in contemporary design, prestige and exclusivity, the Mulsanne Convertible Concept will be the world's most elegant and sophisticated convertible, providing a supremely powerful and refined luxury grand touring experience for four adults.

The graceful form of the Mulsanne Convertible Concept is a fusion of sportiness and coach-built elegance, its sculpted lines and muscular haunches conveying a sense of power and movement.

The spacious yet intimate cabin design is inspired by luxurious, high-performance power boats. With its unrivalled combination of chic, contemporary design, sumptuous materials, painstaking attention to detail and supreme refinement, the Mulsanne Convertible Concept reinforces Bentley's position as the undisputed benchmark in handcrafted automotive luxury.

Commenting on the Mulsanne Convertible Concept, Wolfgang Dürheimer, Bentley's Chairman and Chief Executive said: "The modern, luxurious, high-tech Mulsanne saloon provides a perfect foundation on which to create the world's most elegant convertible. The Convertible Concept will extend the appeal of the Mulsanne family, while enhancing the profile of the Bentley brand, particularly in new and emerging markets."

Open-top cars have been an intrinsic part of the company's heritage since its formation in 1919. From the race-bred 3-litre of the 1920s to the Park Ward S1 Drophead Coupe of the fifties through the Corniche and, most recently, Azure, Bentley has created an array of glamorous and desirable convertibles at the zenith of luxury motoring.

Bentley Supersports Ice Speed Record Convertible【Video】

Bentley has unveiled the limited edition 2011 Bentley Continental Supersports Ice Speed Record convertible ahead of its unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show.

The Bentley Continental Superspots "Ice Speed Record" Convertible sports the Flying B's most-powerful engine ever, a 631-horsepower W12 kicking out 590 pound-feet of torque and sporting flex-fuel capability. The car Kankkunen set his record in ran exclusively on bio fuel.

There will only be 100 units available worldwide, offered in just three exterior colors: Beluga, Quartzite, and Arctica White, all contrasting with a Dark Grey Metallic soft top. This special edition will be distinguished by muscular styling cues and 20” inch, 10-spoke Supersports wheels with a dark tint finish.

Driving the all-wheel drive, biofuel-powered 6-litre, 12-cylinder Continental Supersports convertible on the perilous frozen Baltic Sea, off the coast of Finland, Kankkunen achieved a speed of 205.48 mph (330.695 km/h) eclipsing his own ice speed record of 199.83 mph (321.6 km/h) set in 2007 in the Continental GT.

Inside the Supersports ISR gets diamond-quilted Alcantara on the doors, quarter panels and seat facings and soft-grip leather on the steering wheel. There’s a high-gloss carbon-fibre dash, centre console and roof panel which feature a red weave. There’s also red piping on the seats and doors and red contrast stitching on the seats, door casings, steering wheel and gearshift paddles (red’s obviously not as passe on the inside).




Press Release

BENTLEY SUPERSPORTS ‘ICE SPEED RECORD' CONVERTIBLE DEBUTS AT GENEVA SHOW

Celebration of Bentley's world ice speed record- breaking Supersports convertible driven by rally champion, Juha Kankkunen

(Geneva, 28 February 2011) Bentley announces today its most potent and radically styled convertible ever - the 202mph (325km/h) Supersports ‘Ice Speed Record' convertible. This new model, limited to just 100 cars worldwide, is a celebration of the Company's world ice speed record set two weeks ago by Finland's four-time world rally champion Juha Kankkunen in a Bentley Continental Supersports convertible.

Driving the all-wheel drive, biofuel-powered 6-litre, 12-cylinder Continental Supersports convertible on the perilous frozen Baltic Sea, off the coast of Finland, Kankkunen achieved a speed of 205.48 mph (330.695 km/h) eclipsing his own ice speed record of 199.83 mph (321.6 km/h) set in 2007 in the Continental GT.

Both the new Supersports ‘Ice Speed Record' convertible and Juha's record-breaking Supersports will be on display on the Bentley stand at the Geneva Show from 1st March.

Wolfgang Duerheimer, Bentley's new Chairman and Chief Executive, said:

"Juha Kankkunen's drive was a remarkable achievement and worthy of a very special car. The Continental Supersports ‘Ice Speed Record' is a true driver's car that captures that unique Bentley spirit. It offers extreme performance, agility and an extrovert personality, while retaining the refinement, handcrafted luxury and comfort our customers expect."

Bentley's most powerful 6 litre W12 engine with FlexFuel technology

The 6-litre, twin turbo-charged W12 engine, produces 640 PS (631 bhp / 471 kW) - the most powerful Bentley ever - and 800Nm (590lb ft) of torque. Paired with a Quickshift six-speed automatic transmission, it launches the convertible ‘Ice Speed Record' model from 0-60mph in 3.8 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.0s) and reaches 100mph from a standing start in only 9.5 seconds (0-160 km/h in 9.4s).

The additional engine power of the new convertible is the result of fine tuning of the engine to optimise the benefits of the new free-breathing air intake ducts, intercooler system and the exhaust system.

And true to the Bentley tradition of delivering instantly available and exhilarating performance in real world driving conditions, the ‘Ice Speed Record' convertible will sprint from 50-75mph (80-120 km/h) in just 2.5 seconds.

In common with its Continental stable mates, the new Supersports model runs on both petrol (gasoline) or E85 bio-ethanol or any combination of the two. Pioneered in the Supersports coupe, this FlexFuel technology offers a reduction of up to 70 per cent in CO2 emissions on a well-to-wheel basis, a measure of a fuel's net contribution to the atmosphere, not just tailpipe emissions. The on-board fuel supply system monitors the content of the fuel tank and ensures that power and torque remain constant regardless of the ratio of petrol to biofuel.

The all-wheel drive system provides outstanding traction in all weather conditions. The drive is transferred between the front and rear axles automatically via a Torsen centre differential. The standard 40 front/60 rear torque split provides optimum traction and modulation of line and attitude by 'throttle steering' for more enthusiastic drivers.

The new exhaust system with reduced back pressure benefits gas flow while delivering a sporty baritone note under hard acceleration. On light throttle cruising, the new Supersports model remains impressively refined.

Large diameter (420 mm front, 356 mm rear), carbon ceramic brake discs, with eight-piston calipers at the front provide fade-resistant stopping power. This lightweight system also reduces unsprung and rotating mass, benefiting steering response and handling. As with all Supersports models the ‘Ice Speed Record' is fitted as standard with Pirelli 275/35ZR20 ultra high performance tyres.

Dramatically extrovert styling

Just 100 examples of this dramatically styled new model will be built at Bentley's Crewe factory. The Supersports ‘Ice Speed Record' is distinguished by its vibrant and muscular styling cues that reinforce the uncompromising performance credentials of this extreme Bentley convertible.

Bentley's designers have selected three ‘stand-out' exterior paint colours for the new convertible: Beluga, Quartzite and, fittingly, Arctica White. These colours are complemented by a Dark Grey Metallic soft top with Bentley's refined three-ply composite construction.

The unique appearance of the soft top is created in the outer layer by a 'grey' acrylic fibre with a semi-transparent 'metallic look' in a twill weave construction. The car's potent performance is further accentuated by 20" inch, 10-spoke Supersports wheels with a dark tint finish.

Contemporary luxury craftsmanship and advanced technology

The dramatic character of the four-seat Supersports ‘Ice Speed Record' continues in the cockpit in which traditional Bentley craftsmanship and fine detailing are given an even more extrovert interpretation.

Traditional leather hides sit alongside a range of contemporary materials for a distinctly sporting style. This includes diamond-quilted Alcantara to doors, quarter panels and seat facings, and ‘soft-grip' leather on the steering wheel and gear lever.

Unique to the ‘Ice Speed Record' model, the high-gloss carbon fibre on the dashboard, centre console and roof panel, features a unique red weave. The theme continues with Pillar Box red piping to seats and doors, and Pillar Box Red contrast stitching to seats, door casings, steering wheel and gearshift paddles.

The front seats and floor mats also feature embroidered ‘Supersports' legends while the signature Breitling dashboard clock also has a red accent.

The Supersports ‘Ice Speed Record', despite its ice racing pedigree, is clearly no ‘stripped out' racer. Its highly specified interior has the highly-advanced touchscreen infotainment system from the new Continental GT that provides rich map imagery and a 30GB on-board hard drive.

An 8-inch screen displays the car's audio system, telephone, ride and comfort settings as well as the very latest navigation system, which uses both an in-car hard-disc drive and a DVD player to access route data. It also utilises dynamic navigation to avoid heavy traffic spots, locates destinations using geo-tagged photos from an SD memory card and is Google Maps-compatible for most markets.

The infotainment system, with 7-digit postcode entry, combines touchscreen controls and classic Bentley knurled rotary switches to offer instant usability. It is complemented by a new driver information panel (DIP) located in the main instrument cluster. The new wide-screen DIP employs TFT technology and enhanced graphics provide the driver with clear and easily accessible information about a wide range of car systems.

Bentley Continental Supersports sets world speed record on ice

The Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible breaks the world speed record on ice. And we never even knew there was a world speed record on ice.

The Continental Supersports convertible with all-wheel-drive, 6-liter, 12-cylinder Bentley was Finland's four-time world rally champion Juha Kankkunen. The world's fastest all-wheel-drive soft-top convertible allowed Kankkunen to shatter his own 2007 world ice speed record of 321.6kph (199.83mph), which he set in a Continental GT at the same location.

Last time in 2007, he missed the 200 mph mark, and achieved a speed record of 199.83 mph in the Continental GT at the same location.

A limited edition of this most extreme Bentley will make its global debut at the Geneva Motor Show next month. Production will be limited to just 100 examples!





Press Release

BENTLEY SUPERSPORTS SHATTERS WORLD SPEED RECORD ON SHEET ICE

Rally champion, Juha Kankkunen achieves 205.48 mph (330.695 km/h) in extreme Bentley convertible

(Oulu, Finland. 15 February 2011) Finland's four-time world rally champion Juha Kankkunen drove a Bentley Continental Supersports convertible on the hazardous frozen waters of the Baltic Sea, off the coast of Finland, at a breathtaking 205.48 mph (330.695 km/h) to set a new world speed record on ice.

Kankkunen was in irresistible form with his all-wheel drive, 6-litre, 12-cylinder Continental Supersports convertible which, in line with the Company's CO2 strategy, ran on biofuel. The world's fastest soft top enabled Juha to shatter his own 2007 world ice speed record of 199.83 mph (321.6 km/h) set in the Continental GT at the same location.

With the help of his own experienced team and Bentley engineers, Kankkunen overcame the challenges of temperatures as low as minus 30 degrees, sudden snow blizzards and potentially dangerous crosswinds on the 16.5km track on a 70cm-thick layer of sea ice. The record attempt was driven on a 1000m long measured distance with the speed certified by officials from the Finland Traffic Police. His new world record was based on the average of two runs in opposite directions with measured speeds ratified by a representative of The Guinness Book of Records.

"The last time, I narrowly missed the magical 200 mph mark in a Continental GT. When I heard about the Supersports I was determined to go record breaking again with the Bentley Boys. This time, with over 600bhp under the bonnet, a Quickshift transmission and the security of the all-wheel drive system, the Supersports convertible was the perfect car to go for the record. " Kankkunen said.

"200mph came up after 5km on sheet ice. Then it was just a question of getting everything right in the timing zone and hoping the snow kept away. There's nothing to beat driving a Bentley at these speeds; the conditions may be perilous but the car responds so well to the slightest adjustment which gives you the confidence to push even harder."

As with the previous record-breaking drive in the Continental GT the Anglo-Finnish team used a car with minimum modification. A fully-welded, heavy-duty safety roll-cage, along with Pirelli winter tyres (Pirelli SottoZero II 275/40R20) and a rear bumper-mounted parachute provided reassurance in case of an emergency. Front and rear spoilers provided optimum high speed stability on the treacherous surface.

To highlight Bentley's environmental commitment to sustainable fuel sources, Kankkunen's Supersports Convertible was fuelled with E85 bioethanol rather than petrol (gasoline). All models in the Continental range are capable of running on petrol (gasoline), E85 bioethanol or any combination of the two.

Wolfgang Dürheimer, Bentley's new Chairman and Chief Executive, said:

"The ice speed record is an amazing feat by Juha Kankkunen, whose skill and courage in extreme conditions truly make him one of the modern-day Bentley Boys. We will be celebrating this achievement with a very special ‘extreme' Bentley, which will be the most powerful model ever to bear the famed Winged B emblem."

A limited edition of just 100 examples of this most extreme Bentley will be made and the car will make its global debut at the Geneva Motor Show on 1st March.

Anderson Germany Bentley GT Speed Elegance

The Dusseldorf-based customization expert took off the wraps on its latest creation, a stunningly refined Bentley GT Speed Elegance edition. Amazingly dazzling straight from the assembly line, the luxury performance beast now strikes with even bolder, neater and more unique livery further blended with boosted output figures.

The Anderson Bentley GT Speed package ups the power output of the 610 hp engine to an even more serious 695 hp. To get the extra power, the Anderson Bentley GT Speed program includes an ECU re-map, a modified air filter and a new exhaust system which sheds 17 kg off the total weight of the Continental. The new exhaust system of the Anderson Bentley GT Speed has another party trick in the form of a remote-controlled valve that can be set of three different sound levels.

The GT Speed Elegance edition features an exterior package consisting of a carbon fiber bonnet, air intakes and the deck lid, a front apron, a set of side skirts, and a rear skirt. The interior gets decor strips, while the front and rear center console get some carbon fiber treatment. Black leather seats with white logo stitching make for a nice comfortable ride, too.

In the interior, the decor strips, the front and rear center console including ashtray and the interior light are also made of the carbon material. Passenger seats are trimmed with black leather and white logo stitching.




Press Release

Traditionally, the fact that all Bentley models are in the finest category of automobiles is the matter of course. Willingness to improve this vehicle by "appropriate action" requires a complete self-confidence. As can be seen from the outcomes, that condition is by no means out of thin air.

And the company ANDERSON GERMANY, known for its bold solutions, headquartered in Dusseldorf, has been justifiably trusted again to awake a Bentley GT Speed Elegance edition and at the same time to make it a vehicle with unlimited possibilities for prestige improvements.

Outwardly, the carbon motor bonnet goes with the almost obligatory air intakes and the deck lid from the same-grade material is less visible. This exclusive body kit from ANDERSON GERMANY consists of a front apron, a set of side skirts and a rear skirt. And owing to LED daytime running lights, the risk to "overlook" this Bentley tends to zero. Due to its exclusivity, this body kit is limited to 150 pieces worldwide.

The vehicle already equipped with 610 hp engine has been improved through software optimization,
a modified air filter and an exhaust system with additional Rennkats’ 85 hp, whereby 695 hp and a dizzying torque are available now. The remote-controlled valve controlling the exhaust can operate in three noise levels. Incidentally, only the modified exhaust system saves up to 17 kg.

In the interior, the decor strips, the front and rear center console including ashtray and the interior light are also made of the precious carbon material. Passenger seats are trimmed with black leather and white logo stitching.