Bentley introduces second PHEV powertrain

A second plug-in hybrid V8 option for the Continental GT and Flying Spur is coming. While down on top-cat Conti GT, there’s still enough oomph on tap to outrun the former W12 cars.

Dubbed the High Performance Hybrid powertrain, it is a lower-powered option to the existing Ultra Performance set-up. But there’s still a solid 500kW and 931Nm of torque. That’s only slightly less than the Conti GT Speed’s 575kW and 1000Nm.

Bentley still reckons on a sprint time of 3.5sec for the Continental GT coupé and 3.9sec for the Flying Spur saloon. Not too shabby for vehicles that weigh the wrong side of 2.5 tonnes.

The new PHEVs use a slightly detuned version of the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 and gearbox-mounted electric motor. That’s the same set-up as the Ultra Performance models. A 25.9kWh battery means around 80km of EV range.

The powertrain is offered in the Conti GT and Flying Spur, along with the Continental GTC (the convertible version). It is available with the new Core and Azure trims. The Ultra Performance set-up is reserved for the Speed and Mulliner versions.

Azure trim returns to the line-up following the launch of the new-generation Conti GT and Flying Spur last year. Bentley describes it as offering “elegant design, a lavish specification and a strong focus on wellbeing”. 

Special features of the Azure trim include a black grille with a chrome surround, a black front splitter, machined 22-inch alloys and Azure branding throughout.

The coupé variant adds a panoramic sunroof, while the convertible comes with a neck-warmer for added comfort in cooler weather.

For pricing, enquire here.