Both V8 models have a new-generation 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged engine developing 550ps and 770Nm of torque.
Designed, engineered and handcrafted in Crewe, Great Britain, the Continental GT V8 and GT V8 Convertible combine driver-focussed performance with exquisite refinement.
Both cars feature 20-inch, 10-spoke painted alloys wheels, and a sublime, handcrafted interior.
Bentley offers seven standard exterior bodywork colours, with an extensive palate of additional paint choices available.
Both GT V8 and GT V8 Convertible are distinguished by quad exhaust pipes and subtle V8 badging to the front wings.
The GT V8 Convertible’s tailored roof can be deployed or stowed in just 19 seconds, with the car travelling at speeds of up to 50km/h.
This transforms it from a luxurious coupe into an open-top Grand Tourer at the touch of a button.
The V8 models also employ the latest LED Matrix technology, while the design of the headlamps is inspired by the finest cut-crystal glasses.
The result is similar to that of an illuminated cut gem, an effect which is magnified when the optional welcome sequence gradually illuminates the headlights as you approach the car.
At the heart of both the GT V8 and GT V8 Convertible dashboards are an advanced, fully digital, driver-focussed instrument panel and the optional Bentley Rotating Display.
The latter features a 12.3-inch touchscreen housed in a three-sided unit, which revolves the veneer to reveal the touchscreen, as well as three elegant analogue dials.
The Continental GT V8 and GT V8 Convertible have front and rear hollow, lightweight anti-roll bars for exceptional handling while the technically advanced, adaptive chassis created for Bentley’s intelligent Dynamic Ride System is also available as an option.
The Dynamic Ride System controls ride comfort and lateral roll, cushioning passengers from excessive movement.
The air suspension has the scope to vary from sporting spring stiffness to luxury limousine refinement, depending on which mode is selected.
An Active All-Wheel Drive System varies the front-to-rear torque split dependent on the driving situation. The Continental GT V8 will use rear-wheel drive as much as possible during normal driving for optimum efficiency and dynamic performance.
Electric Power-Assisted Steering provides excellent feedback, and there are driver assistance features, such as Active Lane Assist, Traffic Jam Assist and Park Assist.
Continuous Damping Control optimises comfort and handling, by constantly adjusting the damper forces in response to road inputs, vehicle movement and driver demand.
GALLERY: Bentley Continental GT Convertible V8
