Bentley offers many expressions of the Continental GT, from the wellness-oriented Azure to the athletic nature of the GT Speed. Yet the new Continental GT S and GTC S, available as both a coupe (GT S) and convertible (GTC S), might be the most driver-centric variants yet.
Inspired by the limited-edition Supersports, these fourth-generation S models provide more choice for discerning buyers in the Continental lineup. It is a strategic, if not bold, new direction for the Crewe-based marque, combining its signature design language with its latest hybrid technology.
New hybrid powertrain
Strong replacement for the W12
The focal point of the Continental GT S and GTC S is the High Performance Hybrid powertrain. While some may still long for the internal combustion W12 of the previous generation, Bentley’s 4.0-liter V8 hybrid powertrain outperforms it across the board.
Bentley’s High Performance Hybrid system delivers a staggering 671 horsepower (680 PS), a 128 horsepower increase over the previous GT S. With 686 lb-ft of torque, the Continental GT S can hit 60 mph in 3.3 seconds on its way to a top speed of 190 mph.
However, a calmer driving experience can be had as both cars offer up to 50 miles of all-electric driving range based on the WLTP cycle.
- Base Trim Engine
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V8 twin-turbo
- Base Trim Transmission
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8-speed Dual-clutch Automatic
- Base Trim Drivetrain
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Rear-Wheel Drive
- Base Trim Horsepower
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657 hp
Limited-slip differential and all-wheel steering
Stability control can be turned off
To handle that massive torque, Bentley has equipped the Continental GT S and GTC S with a chassis setup previously reserved for the range-topping Speed and Mulliner variants. Bentley’s Performance Active Chassis includes all-wheel drive, twin valve dampers, torque vectoring (front to rear and across the axles), and the 48V Dynamic Ride anti-roll system.
An electronic limited-slip differential and all-wheel steering are standard, a first for a Continental GT S. According to Bentley, this setup allows owners to access a broader range of drive modes for both the road and track.
For example, with the ESC system fully engaged, traction is controlled to inhibit oversteer. In Dynamic Mode, the car allows for a degree of rear-axle slip. Finally, the ESC can be completely turned off to create what Bentley calls a “truly exhilarating driving experience.”
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Blackline exterior treatments
Sleek 22-inch alloy wheels
The sporting character of the Continental GT S and GTC S is evident at first glance. The standard Blackline Specification replaces traditional brightwork with gloss-black matrix grilles and dark-tinted LED matrix headlamps, featuring Bentley’s Precision design (a feature shared only with the GT Speed).
Other standard exterior features include Beluga black mirror caps, sill extensions, a rear diffuser, dark-tinted taillamps and tailpipe finishers, and 22-inch alloy wheels. While these wheels come standard in silver, owners can opt for full-gloss black or a gloss-black version with a brighter, machined surface.
The GTC S convertible experience is defined by a fabric roof that can be raised or lowered in about 20 seconds at speeds up to 30 mph. Drivers can fully immerse themselves in the “crossplane beat” of the exhaust with the top down, accentuating the V8’s soundtrack in a way the coupe cannot.
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Dinamica tactile fabric
Creates a performance-focused environment
Bentley has introduced a dual-color upholstery exclusive to the Continental GT S and GTC S. As described by Bentley, the “fluted seat design” creates a performance-focused environment, while the Tactile Dinamica fabric is used on key touchpoints, including the steering wheel, gear lever, seats, and door inserts, to give the cockpit its signature Bentley look.
Although Piano Black veneer is standard for the interior (to complement the exterior’s Blackline theme), buyers can pick a high-gloss carbon fiber or a dark-tinted chrome for the interior instead.
Meanwhile, the My Bentley Connected Car service is expanding to six new global markets, including Australia and South Africa. The connected services are a suite of app-based digital features that allow owners to remotely monitor and control their Bentley vehicle. Owners also have access to real-time traffic updates, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and emergency satellite services.
Nothing short of perfect
Bentley has created a grand tourer that can run on electric power only for casual Sunday drives, yet also fly down the road with the throttle wide open. By delivering more power than its predecessor and borrowing the best hardware from the GT Speed, the Continental GT S and GTC S are nothing short of perfect.
For the performance-focused buyer who craves the luxury treatment only Bentley can provide, these two cars are as good as it gets.
Stephan is the sports journalist for the Maple Grove Report.
