Bentley launches new Continental GT S and GTC S

The coupe and convertible with the “S” suffix are a bridge between the GT and GTC models and the Supersports.

*The Bentley Continental GT S is a performance-focused coupe. – Bentley Motors photo*

Bentley is giving buyers of its Continental coupe and convertible cars more variations to choose from.

The automaker unveiled the new Continental GT S (coupe) and Continental GTC S (convertible), adding the “S” suffix.

The new S-wearing cars are intended as a bridge between the company’s Continental GT and GTC cars with the High Performance Hybrid powertrain and the model range’s performance top dog, the Supersports.

“The fourth generation Continental GT S models are the fastest and most powerful yet to carry the S badge, and are borne from the same driver-centric mantra as the Supersports,” the company said in a news release.

Bentley Continental GTC S front — *The Bentley Continental GTC S is a performance-focused convertible. – Bentley Motors photo*

Powertrain and performance

The new GT S and GTC S utilize the company’s High Performance Hybrid powertrain, which features a twin-turbo 4-litre V8 engine paired with an electric motor.

Total power output is 671 hp (680 PS) and 686 lb.-ft. (930 Nm) of torque. Those are increases of 128 hp and 118 lb.-ft. of torque compared to the previous generation S models.

Zero to 100 km/h arrives in 3.5 seconds (0 to 60 mph in 3.3 seconds) and the top speed is 306 km/h (190 mph).

The plug-in hybrid powertrain is also able to give the cars up to 80 kilometres of pure electric range.

Bentley Continental GT S rear — *The Bentley Continental GT S features a 671-hp plug-in hybrid powertrain. – Bentley Motors photo*

Dynamics

The dynamics of the cars are more performance-focused compared to your typical GT and GTC, and feature the chassis technology of the GT and GTC Speed models.

The new S models get the Bentley Performance Active Chassis, which includes active all-wheel drive, twin valve dampers, torque vectoring (front to rear and across the axles), a 48-volt active anti-roll system, the company’s latest generation of electronic stability control (ESC) software, electronic limited slip differential and all-wheel steering.

The automaker said this is Bentley’s most advanced and driver-focused all-wheel-drive chassis setup, intended to deliver maximum sporting ability.

Bentley Continental GTC S rear — *The Bentley Continental GTC S, as well as the GT S, have darkened visual elements. – Bentley Motors photo*

Visual cues of the S

The new GT S and GTC S are differentiated from the GT and GTC with a few visual differences.

The cars ride on new standard 22-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, and other options are available.

The S models with the Blackline Specification get a dark front lower spoiler with gloss black matrix grilles, black Bentley wings and lettering, as well as Beluga black mirror caps, sill extensions and a rear diffuser.

The cars also get dark tint LED matrix headlights with Bentley’s Precision design. At the rear of the car, the S models get dark tint taillights and tailpipe finishers.

For full model details, visit the Bentley website.