LONDON: Bentley has launched the new Continental GT S and GTC S, inspired by the limited edition Supersports.
The S models are aimed squarely at the performance-focused driver.
The fourth generation Continental GT S models are the fastest and most powerful yet to carry the S badge, and are borne from the same driver-centric mantra as the Supersports.
At 680PS and 930Nm, the new S models’ High Performance Hybrid powertrain is 130PS more powerful than that of the previous generation GT S.
Fully deployed it delivers searing acceleration, covering 0-60mph in just 3.3 seconds (0-100kph in 3.5s) and powering on to a top speed of 306kph, accompanied all the while by the thrilling soundtrack of a sports exhaust that accentuates the 4.0-litre V8’s crossplane beat.
The High Performance Hybrid even outperforms the previous generation’s W12 Speed powertrain on all power, torque and performance parameters – whilst also being capable of up to 80km in pure electric mode.
Complementing this advanced powertrain is a chassis set up that was previously only available with the GT Speed and GT Mulliner models, featuring the Bentley Performance Active Chassis.
This includes Active All Wheel Drive, twin valve dampers, torque vectoring (front to rear and across the axles), the 48V Bentley Dynamic Ride active anti roll system, a new generation of ESC control software and for the first time on a Continental GT S, an electronic limited slip differential and all-wheel steering.
This is Bentley’s most advanced and driver-focused AWD chassis setup.
This setup allows the driver to access an even greater breadth of driving modes and road or track behaviours.
With the car’s advanced ESC system fully engaged, traction is controlled to inhibit oversteer.
In Dynamic Mode, the car allows a level of rear axle slip, allowing the driver to control the cornering attitude of the car whilst maintaining confidence to bring the car back in-line if required.
The ESC system can also be completely turned off, at which point the cornering stance can be balanced on-throttle by the driver.
Meanwhile, the Blackline Specification adds to the look of the dark front lower spoiler, with gloss black matrix grilles, whilst black Bentley wings and Bentley lettering sets the mood.
Complementing these visual signifiers of performance are Beluga black mirror caps, sill extensions and a rear diffuser.
Dark tint, full LED matrix headlamps featuring Bentley’s Precision design detail are a feature shared only with the GT Speed.
At the rear, the S specification includes dark tint taillamps and tailpipe finishers for the sports exhaust.
As for the interior, the two-colour upholstery split is unique to these models and, together with the fluted seat design, it creates a purposeful, performance-focused driving environment.
Tactile Dinamica technical fabric is used on key touch points, including steering wheel, gear lever, seats and door inserts.
The standard Piano black veneer echoes the design theme of the exterior’s Blackline specification, although high-gloss carbon fibre and other finishes are offered as an option.
Other options include full leather upholstery and dark tint chrome specification for all interior metal brightwork.
