2012 Bentley Continental GTC Convertible

THE NEW BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GTC

• Bold, contemporary, sculpted design employing advanced production technology.

• Sensuous, luxurious, hand-crafted cabin with class-leading infotainment.

• Coupe-like refinement with unrivalled comfort and practicality.

• More powerful 6.0-litre W12 engine with FlexFuel capability, delivering exhilarating performance.

• Úprated chassis for a more dynamic and engaging open-top driving experience.

(Crewe, England. 24 August 2011). The second generation of Bentley's iconic Continental GTC convertible will debut at next month's International Automobile Exhibition (IAA) in Frankfurt.

Taking cues from its GT coupe sibling launched last year, the new Continental GTC builds on the highly successful foundation of the previous cabriolet, which premiered in 2006. Bentley's design and engineering teams have improved virtually every aspect of the iconic convertible with an uncompromising focus on quality.

While the first Continental GTC was elegant and understated, the sharper radii and assertive stance of the new model delivers a more contemporary and muscular presence. Advanced manufacturing techniques produce aluminium front wings without the need for seams or welds creating the look and feel of a coach-built car. Twenty-inch wheels are now standard with three styles of 21-inch wheel, a first for GTC, available as an option, reinforcing the distinctive, sporting stance of the new Bentley.

The four-seater luxury convertible features a new, even more spacious and sumptuous hand-crafted cabin, with soft-touch leather hides, an extensive range of wood veneers, cool-touch metals and deep-pile carpets. There are 17 standard soft-touch leather hide colours with six colour split combinations, complemented by a range of seven veneers, all produced by Bentley's talented craftsmen and women.

The GTC's renowned coupe-like refinement is also enhanced. The tailored, multi-layered fabric hood is complemented by acoustic glass and under-body panels, for optimum noise isolation.

Superb everyday practicality for a luxury convertible was a hallmark of the original GTC and much valued by its customers. The cabin of the new GTC is now even more practical, with additional rear legroom, new storage solutions and innovative features such as touch-screen infotainment, automatic seat-belt presenters and a Bentley-designed Neck Warmer for comfortable roof-down motoring whatever the temperature.

A wider track, front and rear, sharper steering and retuned suspension provides a more exhilarating and class-leading drive. Bentley's advanced all-wheel drive system features a new 40:60 rear torque bias (compared with 50:50 of the original GTC) minimising understeer during hard cornering and allowing the spirited driver to manage the car's line and balance via precise throttle control.

This compelling dynamic package is combined with a more powerful 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged W12 engine as well as a new QuickShift transmission enabling faster gear changes than ever before. Power output is raised from 560PS to 575PS (567bhp/423kW) and the famed Bentley ‘wave of torque' has been increased by a further 50Nm to 700Nm (516lb ft).

'The GTC has always been the most emotional model in the Continental range and a showcase for Bentley design. With its tailored soft top, the GTC is a pure British convertible true to those classic Bentleys of the past. However, the technology, performance and overall design excellence invested in this model means that we are now writing a new chapter for the Bentley convertible driver.'

Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive, Bentley Motors.

The Bentley Continental GTC is now available to order and first customer deliveries will begin in late 2011.

Sculpted exterior design

• Advanced production techniques such as aluminium Super Forming (front wings) allow for a more sculpted body and sharp ‘power lines.'

• Únique jewelled headlamps with LED daytime-running lights.

• More upright matrix radiator grille and new ‘double horseshoe' rear profile first shown on the flagship Bentley Mulsanne.

Luxurious, practical, hand-crafted cabin with class-leading infotainment


• Choice of 17 hide colours, six colour split combinations and seven veneers.

• Distinctive ‘cobra style' seats for added comfort and enhanced rear cabin space.

• A new touchscreen, 30GB infotainment system introduces advanced satellite navigation with dynamic route guidance, seven-digit postcode entry and Google Map compatibility (market specific).

• Audio systems feature the latest wide-frequency Balance Mode Radiator speakers as standard.

• Revolutionary Dirac Dimensions™ DSP for exceptional sound reproduction (Naim for Bentley premium audio).

More powerful 6-litre W12 engine with FlexFuel capability

• 6-litre W12 engine twin-turbocharged engine produces 575PS
(567bhp/423kW) and 700Nm (516lb ft) of torque.

• FlexFuel capability – runs on E85 biofuel, petrol or any combination of the two.

• 0 – 60mph 4.5 secs (0-100 km/h 4.8 secs).

• 0 – 100mph 10.9 secs (0 – 160km/h 10.9 secs).

• Top speed 195 mph (314 km/h).

Dynamic Bentley driving experience


• ZF 6HP28 transmission with ‘Quickshift' system that cuts shift times by up to 50% and enables double downshifts.

• New 40:60 rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel drive system reduces understeer when powering out of bends and provides for better modulation of line and attitude by ‘throttle steering.'

• Increased front and rear track improves grip and stability.

• Advanced ESC system fully exploits the potential of the more powerful W12 engine and improved chassis.

• 20' ‘Five Spoke' alloy wheels with optional 21' wheels in ‘Five Spoke Two-Piece', ‘Seven Spoke Elegant' and ‘Ten Spoke Propeller' designs.

Source - Bentley

BENTLEY GTC CONVERTIBLE MAKES NORTH AMERICAN DEBUT AT LA SHOW

Mulsanne Executive Interior Concept Features Future Mobile Connectivity

Bentley Motors unfolds its new Continental GTC at the Los Angeles Convention Center this week in its first public unveiling to the North American market. The Bentley stand will also show the next generation of mobile connectivity with the Mulsanne Executive Interior Concept – a new multimedia experience designed for executives inside the luxurious, hand-crafted cabin of the company's flagship Mulsanne.

'Los Angeles is the ideal location for Bentley to launch the luxurious and powerful GTC convertible,' said Alasdair Stewart, Bentley's Member of the Board for Sales and Marketing. 'Southern California remains the most successful market for Bentley in the ÚS, and the ÚS remains the largest market in the world for the Company. New model introductions, such as the GTC convertible – which will reach ÚS customers later this year – and the new GT coupe – which went on sale in the spring – have helped Bentley global sales grow by a third in 2011.'

Sales Growth
Bentley sales to the end of October increased 33% to 5,379 putting the Company on track to reach its target of 7000 cars sold this year. ÚS sales are in line with this increase, with the new Continental GT coupe accounting for 37% of all sales in the market - despite reaching showrooms only in April. The ÚS market accounts for roughly half the world's Bentley convertible sales making it the number one market for the new Continental GTC. Bentley's exciting new product line up, together with a dealer network now expanded to 48 with the opening of Bentley Nashville, means that there is a great deal of confidence for 2012.

This confidence is bolstered by the ongoing high demand for Bentleys in other markets. China has continued its unprecedented sales growth, up nearly 90% over 2010; Sales in Germany are up by around 60% and in the Únited Kingdom Bentley's market share in the luxury segment is now more than 25%, making it the clear market leader.

2012 Bentley Continental GTC


Below the surface, the GTC rockets from 0-60 in 4.5 seconds thanks to a hand-built 567hp powerplant that boasts 516 lb-ft of torque, and a Quickshift transmission that improves acceleration response times and cuts shift times to only 200 miliseconds. The GTC's chassis, the stiffest of any convertible in the world, provides a firm foundation for suspension control, minimizing scuttle shake and contributing to the GTC's refined handling.

The GTC interior features luxurious wood and leather craftsmanship, for which Bentley is renowned, alongside class-leading technology, such as eight-inch touch-screen infotainment system, and zip-code entry navigation, all supported by a 30-gigabyte hard drive. To ensure drivers and passengers alike enjoy an extended top-down driving season, the GTC now features neck warmers in the rear headrests of its cobra-head designed slim-line seats. With the top up, acoustics have improved thanks to the addition of acoustically-sensitive undersheet, wheel liners, front and side glass and a three-layer roof with a rubber-film middle layer.

The new Bentley GTC convertible will enter the ÚS market in late 2011, with an MSRP of $212,800.

Bentley Mulsanne Executive Interior Concept


The LA show will also show, for the first time outside Europe, Bentley's cutting edge Mulsanne Executive Interior Concept. This multimedia connectivity concept offers an impressive array of bespoke business, comfort and entertainment features - designed to allow customers to conduct business on the move or just unwind between meetings - all beautifully integrated into the sumptuous and comfortable cabin which takes more than 170 hours to create.

Mulsanne rear passengers receive individual Apple iPad workstations with full internet access (integrated into retractable picnic tables) whilst a large, drop-down LED screen ensures that a wide selection of movies as well as television can also be enjoyed.

Renowned for its painstaking attention to detail, Bentley has added a range of finishing touches including a Tibaldi fountain pen from its specially commissioned Collection which is designed to mirror the Mulsanne's knurled-metal rotary switchgear and which is discretely stowed in the center armrest. The car also features – for the first time on a Bentley - a distinctive Yachting-style veneer, which blends light and dark contrasting tones, throughout the cabin.

Both the new Continental GTC and the Mulsanne Executive Interior Concept can be seen on the Bentley stand in the Concourse Hall of the Los Angeles Convention Centre.

Source - Bentley

NEW CONTINENTAL GTC V8 ARRIVES IN GENEVA

New Continental GTC V8 convertible makes its official public debut at the Geneva Motor Show on 6 March, 2012
Exceptional power-to-emissions ratio combined with classic Bentley power and torque from new 4.0 litre twin-turbo V8 engine
Fulfils Bentley s environmental commitment for a new powertrain delivering a 40 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions
Advanced technologies include direct injection, variable displacement, new close-ratio 8-speed transmission and all wheel drive
New Continental GTC V8 complements the flagship Continental GTC W12 6.0 litre convertible
(Crewe and Geneva, 5 March 2012) The new Bentley Continental GTC V8 convertible will make its official public debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.




This remarkable, new Bentley V8 engine delivers maximum power of 500 bhp (507 PS / 373 Kw) at 6000 rev/min and an extraordinary peak torque of 660 Nm (487 lb ft) which is available across virtually the entire rev range from 1700 to 5000 rev/min, providing exhilarating performance and effortless power delivery in the Bentley tradition. Combined with a new close-ratio 8-speed automatic transmission, this translates into a 0-60 mph sprint time of 4.7 seconds for the GTC (0-100 km/h in 5.0 seconds) and a top speed of 187 mph (301 km/h).

At the same time, the new V8 Continental models achieve outstanding levels of fuel efficiency and CO2emissions for the luxury performance sector and are capable of travelling over 500 miles (800 km) on a single tank of fuel. (concept carz)



The new V8 engine features variable displacement with a highly sophisticated engine management system, ensuring a seamless and imperceptible transition from V8 to V4 mode under light throttle load.

The high-technology V8 also features high pressure direct injection, low friction bearings, thermal management, energy recuperation via the charging system, and innovative turbo charger packaging for greater efficiency.

The instantly recognisable growl of the new 4.0 litre V8 engine sets it apart from its Bentley stablemates.

Expressing their potent, muscular character, both new Continental V8 models are distinguished by a black gloss matrix grille with chrome frame and centre bar, a red enamel Bentley B badge, and a black matrix three-segment lower front bumper divided by distinctive body-coloured strakes.

At the rear, unique chromed figure eight exhaust tailpipes, a dark lower valance and red enamel B bootlid badge emphasise the sporty, contemporary identity of the new V8s. The new Continental V8 models can be specified with 20-inch alloy wheels as standard or an optional 21 inch six-spoke design which is available in dramatic Diamond Black (exclusive to the Continental V8) or Diamond Silver finishes.

Inside the cabin, an Eliade cloth headlining, new contemporary Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneers, optional two-tone leather colour split and short centre console continue the fresh, sporting design theme.

The new Continental GTC V8 model will be offered beneath the flagship 6.0 litre, 12 cylinder engined GTC, which continues to excite customers with a combination of silken refinement and the ultimate power of the twin-turbocharged W12 Continental engine that, in its most potent form, delivers an astonishing 631 bhp (640 PS).

Both Continental V8 models feature a state-of-the-art, all-wheel drive system employing an advanced Torsen differential and a 40:60 rear biased power split. This ensures safe yet dynamic sports car handling in all road conditions.

Since the launch of the original GT in 2003, the W12-engined Continental range has gone from strength to strength with over 50,000 sales worldwide, making Bentley s factory in Crewe, England, the largest producer of 12 cylinder engines in the world. The W12 story continues to unfold and remains the ultimate expression of Bentley s engineering strength.

Commenting on the launch of the new V8 Continental models, Wolfgang D rheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive, Bentley Motors, said:

With the new 4.0 litre V8 engine we are widening the appeal of the latest generation of Continentals, introducing a completely new driving experience. The new engine has all the exhilarating power, drama and performance you would expect from a V8 engine sporting the famous Bentley wings, effortlessly delivered with our characteristic wave of torque . This is complemented by innovative powertrain technology that delivers exceptional fuel efficiency and emissions.

THE NEW CONTINENTAL V8 MODELS

Distinctive sporting style
Gloss black matrix grille with bright chrome surround and divider
Three-segment lower bumper with black air intakes and striking body-coloured dividers
Dark rear lower valance
Distinctive twin figure eight exhaust tailpipes
Red enamel Bentley winged B badges above the front grille, to the bootlid and wheel centres
7 exterior colours offered in standard range

Sporty, contemporary interior
New Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneer unique to the V8 models
Eliade cloth headlining and pillar trim
Short centre console in place of W12 through-console
4 hide colours offered in standard range
Únique two-tone leather colour split
3 hood colours (Continental GTC)

Exhilarating, efficient new 4.0 litre V8 engine
Exceptional power-to-emissions ratio reflecting engine efficiency
Variable displacement (a technology first proven on the Mulsanne) imperceptibly cuts 4 cylinders on cruise and light throttle
Engine optimisation technologies boost efficiency
Turbochargers mounted within V for efficiency and fast response
Switchable engine mounts ensure refinement
New, close-ratio, 8-speed transmission with ultra-fast shifts
Over 500 miles (800 km) range on one tank of fuel
All-wheel drive system with 40:60 rear biased torque split

Source - Bentley

NEW CONTINENTAL GTC V8 MAKES NORTH AMERICAN DEBUT

New Continental GTC V8 convertible makes its official public debut at 2012 New York International Auto Show
•Exceptional power-to-emissions ratio combined with classic Bentley power and torque from new 4.0 litre twin-turbo V8 engine
•Fulfils Bentley's environmental commitment for a new powertrain delivering a 40 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions
•Advanced technologies include direct injection, variable displacement, new close-ratio 8-speed transmission and all-wheel-drive
•New Continental GTC V8 complements the flagship Continental GTC W12 6.0 litre convertible
(New York. 4 April 2012) The new Bentley Continental GTC V8 convertible will make its official public debut at the 2012 New York International Auto Show.

The new 4.0 litre, twin turbocharged Continental GTC V8, and its coupe counterpart the Continental GT V8, achieve exceptional standards for power-to-emissions in the high luxury sports car sector.

This remarkable, new Bentley V8 engine delivers maximum power of 500 bhp (507 PS / 373 Kw) at 6000 rev/min and an extraordinary peak torque of 660 Nm (487 lb ft) which is available across virtually the entire rev range from 1700 to 5000 rev/min, providing exhilarating performance and effortless power delivery in the Bentley tradition. Combined with a new close-ratio 8-speed automatic transmission, this translates into a 0-60 mph sprint time of 4.7 seconds for the GTC (0-100 km/h in 5.0 seconds) and a top speed of 187 mph (301 km/h).

At the same time, the new V8 Continental models achieve outstanding levels of fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions for the luxury performance sector and are capable of travelling over 500 miles (800 km) on a single tank of fuel. (concept carz)

The arrival of the new V8 Continental models fulfils Bentley's environmental commitment to produce a new powertrain that delivers a 40 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions.

The new V8 engine features variable displacement with a highly sophisticated engine management system, ensuring a seamless and imperceptible transition from V8 to V4 mode under light throttle load.

The high-technology V8 also features high pressure direct injection, low friction bearings, thermal management, energy recuperation via the charging system, and innovative turbo charger packaging for greater efficiency.

The instantly recognisable growl of the new 4.0 litre V8 engine sets it apart from its Bentley stablemates.

Expressing their potent, muscular character, both new Continental V8 models are distinguished by a black gloss matrix grille with chrome frame and centre bar, a red enamel Bentley ‘B' badge, and a black matrix three-segment lower front bumper divided by distinctive body-coloured strakes.

At the rear, unique chromed ‘figure eight' exhaust tailpipes, a dark lower valance and red enamel ‘B' bootlid badge emphasise the sporty, contemporary identity of the new V8s. The new Continental V8 models can be specified with 20-inch alloy wheels as standard or an optional 21-inch six-spoke design which is available in dramatic Diamond Black (exclusive to the Continental V8) or Diamond Silver finishes.

Inside the cabin, an Eliade cloth headlining, new contemporary Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneers, optional two-tone leather colour split and short centre console continue the fresh, sporting design theme.

The new Continental GTC V8 model will be offered beneath the flagship 6.0 litre, 12-cylinder engined GTC, which continues to excite customers with a combination of silken refinement and the ultimate power of the twin-turbocharged W12 Continental engine that, in its most potent form, delivers an astonishing 631 bhp (640 PS).

Both Continental V8 models feature a state-of-the-art, all-wheel drive system employing an advanced Torsen differential and a 40:60 rear biased power split. This ensures safe yet dynamic sports car handling in all road conditions.

Since the launch of the original GT in 2003, the W12-engined Continental range has gone from strength to strength with over 50,000 sales worldwide, making Bentley's factory in Crewe, England, the largest producer of 12 cylinder engines in the world. The W12 story continues to unfold and remains the ultimate expression of Bentley's engineering strength.

Commenting on the launch of the new V8 Continental models, Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive, Bentley Motors, said:

'With the new 4.0 litre V8 engine we are widening the appeal of the latest generation of Continentals, introducing a completely new driving experience. The new engine has all the exhilarating power, drama and performance you would expect from a V8 engine sporting the famous Bentley wings, effortlessly delivered with our characteristic ‘wave of torque'. This is complemented by innovative powertrain technology that delivers exceptional fuel efficiency and emissions.'

Source - Bentley

THE BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GTC 6.0 LITRE W12

Taking cues from its 6.0 litre W12 GT coupe sibling, the Continental GTC builds on the highly successful foundation of the previous cabriolet, which premiered in 2006. Bentley's design and engineering teams have improved virtually every aspect of the iconic convertible with an uncompromising focus on quality.

While the original Continental GTC was elegant and understated, the sharper radii and assertive stance of the new model delivers a more contemporary and muscular presence. Advanced manufacturing techniques produce aluminium front wings without the need for seams or welds creating the look and feel of a coachbuilt car. Twenty-inch wheels are now standard with three styles of 21-inch wheel, a first for GTC, available as an option, reinforcing the distinctive, sporting stance of the new Bentley.

The four-seater luxury convertible features a new, even more spacious and sumptuous hand-crafted cabin, with soft-touch leather hides, an extensive range of wood veneers, cool-touch metals and deep-pile carpets. There are 17 standard soft-touch leather hide colours with six colour split combinations, complemented by a range of seven veneers, all produced by Bentley's talented craftsmen and women.

The GTC's renowned coupe-like refinement is also enhanced. The tailored, multi-layered fabric hood is complemented by acoustic glass and under-body panels, for optimum noise isolation.

Superb everyday practicality for a luxury convertible was a hallmark of the original GTC and much valued by its customers. The cabin of the GTC is even more practical, with additional rear legroom, new storage solutions and innovative features such as touch-screen infotainment, automatic seat-belt presenters and a Bentley-designed Neck Warmer for comfortable roof-down motoring whatever the temperature.

A wider track, front and rear, sharper steering and retuned suspension provide a more exhilarating and class-leading drive. Bentley's advanced all-wheel drive system features a new 40:60 rear torque bias (compared with 50:50 of the original GTC) minimising understeer during hard cornering and allowing the spirited driver to manage the car's line and balance via precise throttle control.

This compelling dynamic package is combined with a more powerful 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged W12 engine as well as a new QuickShift transmission enabling faster gear changes than ever before. Power output is raised from 560 PS to 575 PS (567 bhp / 423 kW) and the famed Bentley 'wave of torque' has been increased by a further 50 Nm to 700 Nm (516 lb ft).

'The GTC has always been the most emotional model in the Continental range and a showcase for Bentley design. With its tailored soft top, the GTC is a pure British convertible true to those classic Bentleys of the past. However, the technology, performance and overall design excellence invested in this model means that we are now writing a new chapter for the Bentley convertible driver.'

Source - Bentley