Bentley refines the Continental GT range with V8 S coupe and convertible models

The appeal of the Continental GT range is enhanced with the introduction of the new, sporting Continental GT V8 S. Available as both a coupe and convertible, the new GT V8 S bring added excitement to the Continental range with lowered and retuned sports suspension, sharper steering, dramatic 'S' styling and a distinctive soundtrack from the uprated V8 engine.

The new S models are powered by a reworked version of  Bentley's 4.0-litre, twin-turbo V8 engine that develops 521bhp and an immense peak torque of 680Nm bundled with a close-ratio ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. 

Switch into S mode via the gear selector and the V8 S rewards the spirited driver with a sharpened throttle response while gears are held for longer with faster shifts.

The GT V8 S coupe and convertible catapults to 100km/h in just 4.5 seconds. The coupe climbs to a top speed of 309km/h while the soft-top model nearly matches with a top speed of 308km/h.

The increased performance does not hinder efficiency ratings and has a range of 805km on a single tank of fuel. The GT V8 S coupe returns 10.6L/km while emitting 246g/km. The convertible returns 10.9L/100km and emits 254g/km of CO_2.

The Continental GT V8 S employ variable displacement when applicable, where four of the eight cylinders are shut down when cruising.

For the GT V8 S, the sports suspensions are lowered by 10mm and a revised damping calls for a more engaging and responsive drive. Shared with all Continental models, the all-wheel drive system employs an advanced Torsen differential and a 40:60 rear-biased power split.

The cabin presents a thoroughly modern interpretation of Bentley luxury in which colour and tone offer further appeal to the senses. Available with a range of striking duo-tone interiors, customers may also select from the full range of seventeen hide colours.

The 'S' models include advanced infotainment technology as standard, including an 8-inch touchscreen which displays the car's navigation, audio and  telephone systems as well as the ride and comfort settings for the air suspension, all complemented by a 30GB on-board hard drive.