New Bentley Continental GT

2012 Bentley Continental GT

2012 Bentley Continental GT

Although Bentley dubbed this the "second-generation" Continental GT, this latest Continental GT is pretty much more of a minor model change, but honestly, despite minor change, Bentley claims that this is the Continental GT's first "full model change" after eight years of existence. With an even more bolder design, the new Bentley Continental GT is the Grand Touring coupe now refined to take on other challenges from the Crewe-based luxury marque that is under Volkswagen's control.

With the design derived from the flagship Mulsanne sedan, the new Continental GT has an improved headlamps, revised front bumper, new set of rims, sleeker side view, and a revised rear lamps. The new design for the new Continental GT made it more sleeker and more aristocratic for the sophisticated men in their 40's. On the interior, there are some mild refreshes around here, like the new steering wheel, new paneling, and something else. Checking around every nook and cranny and I expect that despite being called a "full model change", it is still the same Continental GT as far as I know it.

Powered with the brute 6.0-litre W12 Twin Turbo engine, the new Continental GT has a maximum power output of 575PS/6000rpm and the torque output of 700N-m/6000rpm. The standard transmission is a ZF 6-speed tiptronic automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The new Continental GT's maximum top speed is 318km/h and it can go for about 4.6 seconds on the 0-100km/h run. Coming soon is the V8 engine that delivers an impressive fuel economy and lower emissions, suitable for the eco-conscious driver.

My thoughts about the Continental GT:
Is it a Minor Change or a Full Model Change. In the eyes of fans, it was a minor change, but for Bentley, the term "second-generation" really states that this is the Continental GT's first full model change for after eight years starting from 2003.

I love the fact about the W12 twin turbo engine because this grand tourer behaves just like exotics despite this is a 2-door, 4-seater, premiere luxury coupe suitable for the aristocrats. Imagine myself getting one of those...

I'm impressed upon leveling up the Continental GT from ordinary to extra-ordinary because of its new design based from the Mulsanne. Created by the finest craftsmen in Crewe, the new Continental GT boasts an excellent elegance from the outside to the inside. Despite being called a "Full Model Change", I sense that this is still the same Bentley Continental GT as we first met this car in 2003.

But still, I am very happy to see Bentley's flagship coupe all grown up...

Photo: Bentley Motors Limited