Bentley Continental GT The Continental GT, launched in 2003, wasn’t simply the first new Bentley of the Volksawagen AG era. It was also arguably the first all-new Bentley since the original 3 Litre of 1919, with no components carried over from a previous generation. The car marked a revolution for Bentley...
Bentley Continental
2003 - Present
The launch of the first-generation Continental GT in 2003 marked a seismic change in the fortunes of Bentley Motors. The first all-new Bentley of the modern era, the first with all-wheel drive and the first to feature the innovative W12 engine, the Continental GT swiftly propelled Bentley to its current status as the most sought-after luxury car brand in the world. Since then it has gone from strength to strength, building that momentum into its third generation.
Overview / Model & Variant List / Models In-Depth / Image Gallery / More Updates
Overview
The Bentley Continental GT is a luxury grand tourer that has become one of the most iconic and successful models in Bentley's history since its introduction in 2003. It represents a blend of exquisite craftsmanship, luxurious comfort, and remarkable performance, embodying the essence of what a modern Bentley stands for. The Continental GT has evolved through three generations, each improving upon the last in terms of technology, performance, and luxury.
The first-generation Continental GT was unveiled in 2003, marking a new era for Bentley under the ownership of the Volkswagen Group. It was powered by a 6.0-liter W12 twin-turbocharged engine, producing 552 horsepower, which allowed it to reach 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds—a remarkable feat for a car of its size and luxury at the time. This model was significant for introducing Bentley to a wider audience, offering a combination of performance and luxury that was rare at the time.
Launched in 2011, the second-generation Continental GT built upon the success of its predecessor with significant design, luxury, and technological advancements. The exterior was refined with sharper lines and a more aggressive stance, while the interior saw upgrades in materials, technology, and craftsmanship. The W12 engine was updated for better performance and efficiency, and for the first time, a 4.0-liter V8 option was introduced, offering a slightly less powerful but more fuel-efficient alternative. This generation also saw the introduction of the Continental GT Speed, a higher-performance version of the car, and the Continental GT Convertible.
The third-generation Continental GT was unveiled in 2018, showcasing Bentley's advancements in design, technology, and performance. It features an even more refined and dynamic design, drawing inspiration from the Bentley EXP 10 Speed 6 concept car. The interior is a masterpiece of luxury, with even higher levels of craftsmanship, customizability, and cutting-edge technology, including a rotating display that can hide the infotainment screen behind a wood veneer.
This generation is powered by an updated version of the 6.0-liter W12 engine, now producing 626 horsepower, and later introduced a new 4.0-liter V8 engine, offering a blend of performance and efficiency. The car's platform, shared with the Porsche Panamera, provides a lighter, more rigid structure, resulting in improved handling, comfort, and driving dynamics. The Continental GT Convertible also continues, offering the same levels of luxury and performance with the added pleasure of open-top driving.
Throughout its generations, the Bentley Continental GT has been praised for its blend of luxury, performance, and craftsmanship. Reviewers have consistently lauded its powerful engine options, opulent interior, and refined driving experience. The first generation was celebrated for bringing Bentley into the modern era with a bang, while the second generation was appreciated for its improvements in technology and efficiency. The latest generation has been highly praised for its stunning design, cutting-edge technology, and unmatched levels of interior luxury and customization options.
The Continental GT has faced criticism for its weight and size, which can affect handling and agility compared to some more sports-oriented competitors. However, its grand touring nature, focusing on comfort and luxury over long distances, has always been its primary appeal.
In summary, the Bentley Continental GT has established itself as a benchmark in the luxury grand touring segment, offering a unique blend of performance, luxury, and craftsmanship that has evolved over its three generations. It continues to be a symbol of Bentley's heritage and innovation, appealing to those who seek the finest in luxury motoring.
1st Generation
Production: 2003–2011
Assembly: England
Designer: Dirk van Braeckel
Platform: Volkswagen Group D1
Engine: 6.0 L Twin-Turbo W12
Transmission: 6-speed auto
2nd Generation
Production: 2011–2018
Assembly: England
Designer: Dirk van Braeckel
Platform: Volkswagen Group D1
Engine: 4.0 L Twin-Turbo V8
Engine: 6.0 L Twin-Turbo W12
Transmission: 8-speed auto
3rd Generation
Production: 2018–Present
Assembly: England
Designer: Stefan Sielaff
Platform: Volkswagen MSB
Engine: 4.0 L Twin-Turbo V8
Engine: 6.0 L Twin-Turbo W12
Transmission: 8-speed PDK
"An automotive masterpiece that combines classic design with modern performance."
Car and Driver (on the original 2003 Continental GT)
Bentley Continental Models & Derivatives
A quick summary of all three generations and some of the specific variants and highlights during those times.
Bentley Continental (2003-2011)
1st Generation
Birth of a Legend: Introduced a bold, modern design to the classic grand tourer segment.
Powerful W12 engine: Offered exhilarating performance and strong acceleration for a luxury car
Handcrafted interior: Luxurious materials and meticulous attention to detail set it apart.
Broad Sentiment: Groundbreaking yet expensive, attracting both admiration and criticism for its price tag.
When the Bentley Continental GT was unveiled, the world gasped. Bentley had built a new car that combined phenomenal performance and exquisite craftsmanship with a modern design that truly brought luxury cars into the future. Before the Continental GT, luxury cars of this calibre were old-looking large barges that didn't inspire younger folks to get into the ownership game.
The Continental GT, in both coupé and convertible form created a new category of car entirely: the powerful, stylish and luxurious grand tourer. When it was launched in 2003, a single, W12 model was available.
In 2005, a convertible model was introduced, featuring the same powerful W12 engine as the Continental GT before it, adding the opportunity to experience the grand tour in the open air. 2007 saw the creation of a Speed model - to further explore the performance capabilities of the powerful GT, whilst still offering unmatched levels of refinement and craftsmanship. The more performance-focused Continental GT Speed was definitely the driver's car of the first generation, providing even more power and sporting luxury in the same high quality package. This model too became available as a convertible in 2009.
Inspired by design Continental GT Series 51 celebrated Bentley's design studio, and featured unique interior and exterior features, developed by Bentley's trim designers. It was followed in the same year by the model now synonymous with Bentley's pursuit of ultimate driving performance - the Continental Supersports. Inspired by Bentley's racing heritage and the Le Mans race winners of the 1920s, Supersports was launched as both a coupe and convertible.
Not content with creating Bentley's fastest road car in Supersports, World Rally champion Juha Kankkunen drove a recalibrated Supersports Convertible on ice in Finland, breaking the World Ice Speed record. To celebrate this phenomenal achievement, the Supersports Covertible ISR Edition was launched in 2011.
The first generation of Bentley's Continental GT became synonymous with the most luxurious and refined handcrafting balanced with performance character - and for every Continental GT driver there was made a model to suit their own interpretation of a Grand Tour.
Continental GT (2003) & GTC (2005)
Launched in 2003, the first Bentley Continental GT had unmistakable Bentley design DNA. It got a 6-litre twin-turbocharged 12-cylinder engine with 550bhp and a sprint from 0 to 60mph in 4.7 seconds and top speed of 190mph. The six-speed transmission and all wheel drive made it the perfect luxury GT. Open-top fun joined the part in 2005 with the first generation Continental GTC. At its heart was that same 6-litre, 12-cylinder turbocharged engine. A glorious convertible, it got the shape right and kept all the luxury from the coupe.
Continental GT Speed (2007) & GTC Speed (2009)
The Continental GT Speed was a GT for driving enthusiasts who place a higher value on outright performance and agile handling. It got more power, tighter handling and sharper steering response, plus greater agility and body control. Launched in 2009, the first generation Continental GTC Speed was born of the same heart as the Continental GTC grand tourer, but with a different soul. Darker. Sportier. Tauter.
Continental GT Series 51 (2009)
The Continental GT Series 51 was named after the year that the first official styling department was established in Crewe by the gifted John Blatchley. Every Series 51 car featured a highly-distinctive interior colour palette and unique exterior design cues, to further accentuate the powerful road presence and sporting presence of the Continental GT. It had three-tone interior and a range of premium-quality materials for the dashboard and centre console.
Continental Supersports (2009) & Supersports Convertible (2010)
Everything about the 2009 Bentley Continental Supersports was engineered for a single purpose: to deliver the most thrilling driving experience imaginable. The aggressive, low muscular stance of the 2009 Continental Supersport coupe not only drew attention to the changes beneath the skin, but served an equally important technical role. The W12 engine now had 621bhp with the help of those dramtic vertical front air intakes that distribute 10% additional airflow to the twin intercoolers. With a top speed of 204 mph, this was Bentley’s fastest and most powerful production car ever. With the same engine as the coupe, the Supersports Convertible was the fastest, most potent convertible Bentley had ever built - in fact it was the fastest production 4 seater convertible on the market at that time.
Continental Supersports Convertible ISR Edition (2011)
The Continental Supersports Convertible ISR limited edition was created to celebrate the achievements of four-time world rally champion Juha Kankkunen who set a new world ice speed record on 10th February 2011 above the frozen waters of the Bay of Bothnia, Finland in the Continental Supersports Convertible. The all-wheel drive Supersports Convertible achieved a speed of 205.48mph (330.695 km/h) on a specially created 16.5km long track on the frozen Baltic Sea. this feat shattered Juha's own record of 199.83mph (321.6 km/h) set in 2007 in the Continental GT. In commemoration, a limiited edition of 100 Continental Supersports ISR Convertibles were built. The 6-litre, twin turbo charged W12 engine of the Continental Supersports ISR Convertible produces 640PS (631bhp / 471kW). 0-60mph in 3.8 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.0 seconds) and from a standing start it reaches 100mph in a blinding 9.5 seconds.
Bentley Continental (2010-2018)
2nd Generation
A stunning second act In 2010, the Continental was redesigned, with this second generation soon to feature a 4.0 litre V8 engine alongside the now-famous W12 version.
The first significant redesign since its launch in 2003 ushered in a suite of new models, this reinvention of the quintessential modern Bentley took the Continental’s peerless craftsmanship, exquisite style and near-limitless power – and pushed it to an entirely new level. It introduced new technology, greater efficiency, state-of-the-art materials, a sleek new silhouette and a sportier feel.
Its sleek, superformed exterior and sharp design lines are complemented by the 20” six tri-spoke wheels, combining strong inner spokes with elegant outer spokes, to accentuate the car’s stance on the road. 21” ten spoke propeller wheels in a contemporary, progressive style add a more dynamic look.
Inside the cabin, the steering wheel features knurled paddle-shift gear selectors, while behind it, the dashboard design subtly echoes the wings of the Bentley flying ‘B’ badge. The front seats have their own ventilation system, as well as a state-of-the-art massage system.
The engines in particular became more efficient, thanks to innovative technology. Updates to both the V8 and W12 engines increased their power, while the new variable displacement system was introduced, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.
Further models were added in the years that followed, to cater for the differing needs of a growing customer base around the world. They included the racetrack-inspired Continental GT3-R in 2014 and, in 2017, the second iteration of the Continental Supersports, delivering an astonishing 700 bhp, making this the fastest road-going Bentley ever built. Unmatched, the world over The Continental GT and GT Convertible were designed for those who embrace the luxury of spontaneity.
In 2014, the limited edition GT3-R was launched – a road-going Continental inspired by Bentley Motorsport’s success on the track. And in 2015, the entire Continental GT range evolved further. Styling changes to the fenders, bumpers, radiator, wing vents and boot lid resulted in an even more contemporary look, while new seat finishes, paint colours and wheel options were introduced.
An evolution of the range followed in 2015, with styling changes to the fenders, bumpers. There was the introduction of new models based on a leaner V8 powertrain, the Continental GT soon made its debut in elite GT3 racing. Bentley’s motorsport team refined their car for the racetrack, making technological advances that soon found their way back into the road-going cars.
By 2017, the Continental GT was available in a choice of ten models. The Continental's fusion of everyday practicality, exquisite craftsmanship and exceptional performance remains unrivaled.
The reviews were strong for all the second generation models, Car and Driver said "A significant leap forward in refinement and technology, while retaining the classic Bentley character", while Motor Trend called the second generation Continental GT "The most comfortable and luxurious grand tourer on the market". "Sharper handling and more responsive engine make it even more enjoyable to drive" is what Top Gear said while Autoblog commented that it was "A worthy successor to the original, offering even more value for the discerning buyer."
Continental GT (2010)
The second generation is even more powerful, its W12 engine producing 582 bhp. The Continental GT coupé and convertible benefit from variable displacement technology that reduces emissions and improves fuel efficiency, without compromising the Continental’s incredible performance. 0 to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds and top speed of 198 mph were mighty impressive for the coupe. The convertible was only 0.1 seconds slower to 60 mph and hit 196 mph top speed.
Continental GT V8 (2012)
Aimed at lovers of the famous V8 engine growl, the Bentley Continental GT V8, introduced in 2012 gets a red enamel winged ‘B’ badges as well as a stonkingly powerful twin-turbo V8. The Continental GT V8, in coupé and convertible, was the first Bentley to feature variable displacement engine technology, good for 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds and on to a potential top speed of 190 mph (for the coupe).
Continental GT Speed (2012)
The Continental GT Speed was designed to deliver the perfect balance between exquisite luxury and exhilaration. The chassis engineers brought the car 10mm closer to the ground, laying the foundation for a sportier driving experience. Equipped with the Mulliner Driving Specification as standard, it features diamond quilted leather seats, indented leather headlining and embroidered winged 'B' emblems on the headrests. Drilled alloy pedals, a knurled sports gear lever and jewel oil and fuel filler caps recall Bentley’s long racing heritage. With peak power of 642 PS, the Continental GT Speed is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 206 mph. An ultra-high performance convertible, the Continental GT Speed Convertible is capable of 0-60mph in just 4 seconds, with a top speed of 204 miles per hour. A Black Edition was launched in 2016 for Speed convertible and coupé, replacing the chrome brightware with gloss black and offering a choice of striking accent colors.
Continental GT V8 S (2013)
The Continental GT V8 S was introduced in 2013, offering a more performance-focused driving alternative to the standard V8 model, while retaining its distinctive red enamel winged ‘B’ badges. Lowered sports suspension (by 10mm), revised damping and uprated anti-roll bars improved agility, body control and cornering relative to the Continental GT V8, while the recalibrated steering provides enhanced feedback and feel. A sleek body kit – including a front splitter, side sills and a rear diffuser – boosts aerodynamic performance by reducing front-end lift, improving stability at higher speeds. In 2016, an exclusive Black Edition was revealed, for both coupé and convertible. Both the Black Edition and the standard model feature a 4.0 litre, twin-turbocharged V8 engine that delivers 520 bhp.
Continental GT3-R (2014)
Inspired by the track, Made for the Road The Continental GT3-R was inspired by the Bentley GT3. As such, it is probably the most uncompromising and focused road car Bentley has produced thus far. Furthermore, with a limited production run, the GT3-R will always be extremely rare. It got more carbon fibre, a titanium exhaust, and removed the rear seats, all to make this car 100 kilos lighter than the lightest Continental V8. And by lowering the ride-height, and so the centre of gravity, it provides tighter handling and faster cornering.
Continental Supersports (2017)
Launched in 2017, the second-generation Continental Supersports got agile handling, blistering acceleration and an awe-inspiring top speed. Bold body styling includes carbon fibre accent details inside and out, reducing weight as well as giving it a distinctive look, with carbon fibre bonnet vents, side skirts and rear spoiler. With dark tint front and rear lights, 21” black and bright machined forged sports alloy wheels, gloss black tailpipes and a gloss black matrix grille, the dramatic picture is complete. The 6.0 litre W12 engine gets 700 bhp, providing acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds and on to 209 mph. The Supersports Convertible can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds so it is equally potent.
Bentley Continental (2019-Present)
3rd Generation
Currently in its third generation, the Continental GT was recently refreshed for the 2019 model year. The Continental GT is the brand’s emblematic 2-door, 2+2 coupé, with the lineup completed in 2020 with the introduction of the convertible body style.
At launch, the third-generation Continental GT was equipped with an updated 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine, producing 626 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque. This allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, with a top speed of 207 mph. The W12 model exemplifies Bentley's commitment to combining luxury with exhilarating performance.
Introduced later, the V8 model features a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, delivering 542 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. This model offers a slightly more agile driving experience due to the lighter engine, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds with a top speed of 198 mph. The V8 variant provides a balance of performance and efficiency, appealing to drivers looking for a sportier feel.
Lighter and more athletic than ever, the new Continental GT promises for a solid driving experience in both engine configurations.
The exclusivity is amplified through the Continental GT Mulliner and Continental GT Mulliner Convertible, the absolute pinnacle of the range. Available with your choice of V8 or W12 engine and an array of bespoke features, this luxurious and rare vehicle is crafted by the unrivaled expertise of Bentley Mulliner.
The third-generation Continental GT has been highly praised for its blend of performance, luxury, and technology. Reviewers consistently commend its refined and powerful driving experience, opulent interior, and advanced features. The craftsmanship and attention to detail in the cabin are often highlighted as benchmarks in the luxury automotive segment. The introduction of the V8 model has been welcomed for its slightly more dynamic handling characteristics, while the W12 continues to impress with its effortless power.
Critics also appreciate the technological advancements, including the digital dashboard and rotating display, which blend modernity with traditional luxury. The GT Speed, in particular, has received accolades for pushing the performance envelope while maintaining the GT comfort that Bentley is known for.
In summary, the third-generation Bentley Continental GT and its variants continue to define the luxury grand touring segment, offering a range of models that cater to the diverse tastes and preferences of Bentley's clientele, from the performance-oriented GT Speed to the bespoke Mulliner editions.
Continental GT
At launch, the third-generation Continental GT was equipped with an updated 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine.
Continental GT V8
Introduced later, the V8 model features a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, delivering 542 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. With a lively V8 engine delivering irresistibly dynamic performance, accompanied by its uniquely emotive burble it offers a truly engaging driving experience. The Continental GT V8 is exceptionally responsive, delivering breathtaking acceleration accompanied by the irresistible sound of a Bentley V8 engine. The Convertible versions of the Continental GT bring open-top luxury, offering the same engine options as the coupé. The convertible mechanism is engineered for quiet operation and can be deployed or retracted in 19 seconds at speeds up to 30 mph. The interior benefits from additional noise insulation, ensuring a serene driving experience even with the top down.
Continental GT Speed
The Continental GT Speed is the performance pinnacle of the range, introduced in 2021. With a completely new 6.0L twin-turbocharged W12 engine, a step-change in technology and a truly stunning design language, the new Continental GT Speed is unmatched in its class. The W12 engine now produced 650 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0 to 60 mph sprint in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 208 mph. The GT Speed features enhanced chassis technology, including an electronic rear differential and Bentley's Dynamic Ride system, to offer even sharper handling without compromising comfort. Aesthetically, it includes unique design elements and customizations to distinguish it from the standard models. It is also available as a convertible.
Continental GT Mulliner
The Mulliner variant is the epitome of Bentley customization and luxury. Available in both coupé and convertible forms, it offers the most exquisite levels of personalization, with a range of exclusive materials, finishes, and details. The Mulliner Driving Specification adds unique 22-inch wheels, diamond-in-diamond quilted leather seats, and a host of other bespoke features. Every element of the Continental GT Mulliner is handcrafted and designed to yield great satisfaction in even the smallest details. Emblazoned on the Grand Black Veneer fascia is an overlay of the GT's silhouette – a symbol of its exclusivity within the Bentley range, and a charming detail that instantly catches the eye. The Continental GT Mulliner is made even more distinctive through exclusive Bentley Mulliner detailing. Available as either twin-turbo V8 or W12 engine.
1st Generation (2003-2011)
Standard Models
Continental GT (2003 - 2011)
Continental GTC (2005 - 2011)
Continental GT Speed (2007 - 2011)
Continental GTC Speed (2009 - 2011)
Continental GT Series 51 (2009)
Continental Supersports (2009 - 2011)
Continental Supersports Convertible (2010 - 2011)
Special Editions
Continental GT Diamond (2007)
Continental GTC, GTC Speed 80-11 (2010)
Continental GT Design China (2010)
Continental Supersports ISR (2011)
2nd Generation (2011 - 2018)
Standard Models
Continental GT W12 (2011–2018)
Continental GT V8 (2012–2018)
Continental GTC W12 (2011–2018)
Continental GT Speed Coupé (2012–2018)
Continental GTC V8 (2012–2018)
Continental GT Speed Convertible (2013–2018)
Continental GT V8 S (2014–2018)
Continental GT V8 S (2014–2018)
Continental Supersports (2017–2018)
Special Editions
Continental GT Le Mans Edition (2013)
Continental GT3-R (2014–2015)
"Monster by Mulliner" GT V8 S (2016)
Continental GT Speed Black (2016–2018)
Pop art Continental GT V8 S Convertible (2016)
3rd Generation (2018 - )
Standard Models
Continental GT (W12) (2018–2021)
Continental GT V8 (2019–)
Continental GTC V8 (2019–)
Continental GT/GTC Mulliner (2020–)
Continental GT/GTC Speed (2021–)
Special Editions
Continental GT V8 Equinox (2021)
Continental GT Mulliner Blackline (2022)
Continental GT Speed Edition 12 (2023)
Continental GT Le Mans (2024)
Our Favorite Bentley Continental Images
"A true benchmark in the luxury grand tourer segment, pushing the boundaries of what's possible." -
Autoblog (on the current Continental GT)
