Engines and transmissions
All Bentley Continental GT models have a petrol engine, an automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.
Petrol
- 4.0-litre V8 outputs 542bhp for a 3.9-second 0-60mph time and a top speed of 198mph.
- 6.0-litre W12 produces 626bhp for a 0-60mph time of 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 207mph.
- V8 outputs 23.3mpg with CO2 emissions of 275g/km.
- W12 has a lower fuel economy rating of 20.8mpg with CO2 emissions of 308g/km.
Practicality
The Bentley Continental GT has an accommodating interior, making it a surprisingly practical vehicle.
Interior space
- Front seats come with many adjustments and offer plenty of room to stretch out.
- Rear seats are best suited for children or for holding luggage.
- While it could be described as a 2+2, there is more rear seat room than the Aston Martin DB11 or Porsche 911.
Boot space
- 358-litre boot is similar to many hatchbacks, but the convertible has a reduced capacity of 235 litres.
- Ski hatch makes room for loading longer items.
Bodystyles
- Continental GT coupé has a fixed roof.
- Continental GT convertible has an open-top that can close in 19 seconds.
Safety
- No Euro NCAP rating provided.
- Newer models include bright LED Matrix headlights.
- Standard kit includes lane keep assist, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and traffic sign recognition.
Technology
- Large 12.3-inch touchscreen display is easy to see, even in sunlight.
- Apple CarPlay is included, but Android Auto isn't part of the equipment.
- Standard 10-speaker sound system provides a good-quality sound experience in the cabin.
Generations
Even though the Continental name was used for many years, the Bentley Continental GT has only been around since 2003, as the first model released under Volkswagen Group ownership. It became the first mass-produced model from Bentley, making it more affordable as a used car. Now in its third generation, Bentley continues to release updates to keep the Continental GT lineup as luxurious and premium as possible.
Third Generation (2018-present)
While the first two generations looked very similar, the third generation is clearly very different. Bentley added a new headlight pattern and installed a new vent to extract air out of the wheel area. In the back of the car, the elliptical taillights were made larger and redder. The reverse light was placed under the bumper and all of the lighting used LED bulbs.
Inside the cabin, diamond-type stitching was applied to the seats and silver buttons and knobs were added throughout. It quickly became the most elegant of the three generations.
Second Generation (2011-2017)
Bentley did not make any major changes to the second-generation Continental GT, with it continuing to have the same platform. Because of its initial success, Bentley didn't see a lot of areas that needed improving. Instead, it appeared as a facelifted version with a slightly sloped-down roof when compared side by side with the previous lineup.
In 2013, Bentley released a new body for the Continental GT to make it more defined. There was another refresh in 2015 with a larger, wider lower grille and a redesigned boot lid. New wheel designs were also added to help it stand out.
First Generation (2003-2011)
Launched in 2003, Bentley released the Continental GT with its sophisticated style and advanced technology. It had the muscular shape that's associated with the Bentley brand and featured a supercar performance. The powerful 12-cylinder engine was among the top features.
In 2005, Bentley also released the Continental GTC to complement the original design. These two became some of the most well-known Bentley models of all time.
