New Bentley Continental GT honored with Best Cars award

PHOTO: At the heart of the new Continental GT is the groundbreaking Ultra Performance Hybrid system complementing a 4.0-liter, twin-turbocharged V8 engine.

Fourth-gen model’s groundbreaking Ultra Performance Hybrid impresses prestigious German publication Auto Motor und Sport.

The new Bentley Continental GT has reinforced its status as the world’s sector-defining grand tourer, having been recognized with a Best Cars award by the highly influential and leading German automotive authority Auto Motor und Sport. 

Despite strong competition, the Continental GT has won this recognition for four consecutive years now, starting in 2022.

Rising above 462 vehicles across 13 categories, the new Continental GT was voted by readers of Auto Motor und Sport as the pinnacle model in the luxury class. 

The definitive grand tourer was recognized for its extraordinary blend of supercar performance, handcrafted luxury features, and stunning design. Its groundbreaking Ultra Performance Hybrid system has been credited for the win as well.

At the heart of the new Continental GT is a completely new Ultra Performance Hybrid system. With this, an electric motor is combined with a 4.0-liter, twin-turbocharged V8 engine. Together, the power plant produces a staggering 782 hp and 1,000 Nm of torque.

The combination of the V8 engine and electric motor translates to more power and torque across the entire rev range. 

The electric motor’s boost leads to rapid acceleration from low speeds and throughout the mid-range. At higher speeds, increased performance comes from the V8 engine.

Delivering the immense power output to all four wheels are an 8-speed dual clutch transmission and an electronic limited slip differential. 

All of these guarantee consistent traction in every condition, instrumental in propelling the new Continental GT from rest to 100 km/h in an astonishing 3.1 seconds and to a top speed of 335 km/h.

Beyond sheer speed, the hybrid system also enables the grand tourer to travel over 80 kilometers on electric power alone. 

Ensuring the new Continental GT’s unparalleled ride quality, regardless of any journey’s distance, are a new dual valve damper system and dual chamber air springs. 

Groundbreaking heritage

The new, fourth-generation Continental GT undoubtedly has a clear link to one of the British brand’s most influential models — the R Type Continental of 1953. 

Both the new Continental GT and R Type Continental share deliberate and apparent similarities in design. The modern car’s long, flowing hood, strong rear haunches, and clean coupe profile echo the proportions of the 1953 model. 

The front of the new Continental GT is upright, and is marked by a single main headlamp on each side. It is a design touch not seen on a Bentley since the 1950s — like in the R Type Continental. 

In the cabin, the new Continental GT reinforces Bentley’s reputation for handcrafted luxury. New materials and finishes, including dark chrome, 3D leather textures, and updated seat quilting, communicate a modern approach to luxury. Wellness seat technology and air ionization add comfort on long drives, while the latest digital systems are integrated seamlessly into the handcrafted interior.

Clearly, both the new Continental GT and the R Type Continental share the same core values and are designed to be the best grand tourer of their time. With the current model, this is yet again proven by its Best Cars award.