The upcoming Detroit Auto Show will bring some much needed light to an area in America which has seen some pretty tough times lately, given the state of their motor manufacturing business. The heart of the USA’s vehicle industry will soon be the temporary home of this dazzling motor show. Indeed, Bentley has chosen to spotlight its new 2013 Continental GT and GTC at Detroit. With just a few weeks to go before the curtains are up on this event, Bentley has shared some images and specifications of the new coupe and convertible duo.
The V8-powered cars take their energy from their V8 twin-turbocharged 4.0 litre engines. This means they have 500 bhp on offer. With an awesome eight-speed gearbox, this means that 487lb-ft of torque is available.
Despite this massive force when it comes to power, Bentley has announced that the cars, and the environment, will benefit from the reported forty percent improvements in fuel economy and carbon dioxide emissions. Apart from making the car highly competitive amongst its peers in this respect, it also means that the Bentley’s compliance to upcoming environmental legislation is assured. The remarkable feature however is that the performance of these two cars still stands apart in its class, reaching 60 mph in under five seconds.
Perhaps some of the most exciting elements of the new V8 powered cars are their distinguishing characteristics, designed to set them apart from their W12 big brother. Placing itself clearly as the premium engine choice, the 6.0 litre will now be positioned at the top end of the option scale. The V8s are not to be seen as secondary in nature however.
The V8 Continental states its place with an imposing front facade. A black gloss matrix grille framed in chrome with a central bar immediately announces this car’s arrival. To emphasise this, the Bentley ‘Flying B’ insignia is enamelled in red. A black matrix three-bar lower front bumper underscores this profile.
The rear outline is just as dynamic. The Bentley insignia again is highlighted and unique figure-eight exhaust pipes define this model as unique in its own class.
The New Year will be exciting to look forward to for many reasons. The unveiling of the Bentley Continental GT and GTC at the Detroit show certainly adds to the list.