Bentley Continental GTC V8 lifts its lid for Geneva

As sure as night follows day, so convertible follow coupe, in this case Bentley’s new Continental GT V8 Coupe which made its premiere at the NAIAS in Detroit back in January – and now spawns the new Continental GTC V8 convertible.

As with the coupe, Bentley’s GTC V8 convertible offers a 40% improvement in fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions compared to the W12 6.0 litre flagship model.

Bentley’s new V8 delivers maximum power of 500 bhp at 6000 rpm and a peak torque of 660 Nm (487 lb ft), available from 1700 to 5000 rpm. Combined with a new close-ratio 8-speed automatic transmission, the GTC V8 effortlessly powers Bentley’s new convertible from 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds (0-62 mph in 5.0 seconds) and to a top speed of 187 mph.

Whilst V8-powered Continentals are considerably more fuel efficient than their W12-engined stablemates, the Crewe based car maker is unlikely hear much in the way of praise from environmentalists. With a kerb weight of 2470 kg, the GTC V8 convertible is 175 kg heavier than the GT V8 Coupe and subsequently offers just 254 g/km of CO2 on the combined cycle (246 g/km for the V8 coupe) and 25.9 mpg (compared with 26.7 mpg for the GT V8 Coupe).

Bentley are proud to proclaim the Continental GTC V8 can cover 500 miles on a single tank of fuel, but at 90 litres, that’s a £127 bite out of your credit card (at today’s £1.41/litre price).

Styling

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.