Detroit 2012: Bentley's New Twin Turbo V8: Comments

[William Maley]

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Bentley has new engine they'll be showing at next month's Detroit Auto Show. The engine is a new 4.0L Twin Turbo V8 that was jointly developed with Audi. The 4.0L V8 produces 500 HP and 487 lb-ft of torque. The twin-turbo V8 will lie under the hood of Bentley's Continental GT Coupe and GT Convertible.

The V8 Continentals will differentiate from their W12 brethren with minor tweaks to the exterior which include different exhaust tips, red enamel Bentley badges, black gloss matrix grille, chrome frame and center bar.

So why is Bentley offering a V8 variant? Fuel Economy. Bentley says the V8 gets 40% better fuel economy due to the engine using cylinder deactivation, direct injection, stop-start technology, and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Bentley hasn't released the EPA numbers, but estimates have the V8 at 25 MPG.

Press Release is on Page 2

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THE NEW BENTLEY CONTINENTAL V8 RANGE

• New Continental GT and GTC V8 models will debut at the North American International Auto Show, Detroit (January 2012)
  
• Exceptional power-to-emissions ratio combined with classic Bentley power and torque from new 4.0 litre twin-turbo V8 engine
  
• Fulfils Bentley’s environmental commitment to a new powertrain delivering a 40 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency and CO₂ emissions
  
• Advanced technologies include direct injection, variable displacement, new close-ratio 8-speed transmission and all wheel-drive
  
• New Continental V8 model range complements the flagship 6.0 litre W12 GT and GTC
  

(Crewe 12^th December, 2011) Two new Bentley Continental V8 models will be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on 9th January 2012.

The new 4.0 litre, twin turbocharged V8 Continental GT coupé and GTC convertible achieve exceptional standards for power-to-emissions in the high luxury sports car sector.

This remarkable, new Bentley V8 engine delivers maximum power of 500bhp (507PS/373Kw) at 6000 rev/min and an extraordinary peak torque of 660Nm (487 lb ft) which is available across virtually the entire rev range from 1700 to 5000 rev/min, providing exhilarating performance and effortless power delivery in the Bentley tradition. Combined with a new close-ratio 8-speed automatic transmission, this translates into a sub-5 second acceleration time for the 0-60 mph (0-100km/h) sprint and a top speed of over 180mph (290km/h).

At the same time, the new V8 Continental models achieve outstanding levels of fuel efficiency and CO₂ emissions for the luxury performance sector and are capable of travelling over 500 miles (800km) on a single tank of fuel. Full and official figures will be released in early 2012.

The arrival of the new V8 Continental models fulfils Bentley’s environmental commitment to produce a new powertrain that delivers a 40 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency and CO₂ emissions.

The new V8 engine features variable displacement with a highly sophisticated engine management system, ensuring a seamless and imperceptible transition from V8 to V4 mode under light throttle load.

The high-technology V8 also features high pressure direct injection, low friction bearings, thermal management, energy recuperation via the charging system, and innovative turbo charger packaging for greater efficiency.

The instantly recognisable growl of the new 4.0 litre V8 engine sets it apart from its Bentley stablemates.

The new V8 engine will be available in two models; the Continental GT and the Continental GTC. Expressing their potent, muscular character, these 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.

Both models are specified with 20-inch alloy wheels as standard with 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.

The two new Continental models will be offered beneath the flagship 6.0 litre,12-cylinder engined Continental GT and GTC, which continue to excite customers with a combination of silken refinement and the ultimate power of the twin-turbocharged W12 Continental engine that, in its most potent form, delivers an astonishing 631bhp (640PS).

Both new models feature a state-of-the-art, all-wheel drive system employing an advanced Torsen differential and a 40:60 rear biased power split. This ensures safe yet dynamic sports car handling in all road conditions.

Since the launch of the original GT in 2003, the W12-engined Continental range has gone from strength to strength with over 50,000 sales worldwide, making Bentley’s factory in Crewe, England, the largest producer of 12 cylinder engines in the world. The W12 story continues to unfold and remains the ultimate expression of Bentley’s engineering strength.

Commenting on the launch of the new V8 Continental models, Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive, Bentley Motors said:

“With the new 4.0 litre V8 engine we are widening the appeal of the latest generation of Continentals, introducing a completely new driving experience. The new engine will have all the exhilarating power, drama and performance you would expect from a V8 engine sporting the famous Bentley wings, effortlessly delivered with our characteristic ‘wave of torque’. This is complemented by innovative powertrain technology that delivers exceptional fuel efficiency and emissions.”

THE NEW CONTINENTAL V8 MODELS

Distinctive sporting style

• Gloss black matrix grille with bright chrome surround and divider
  
• Three-segment lower bumper with black air intakes and striking body-coloured dividers
  
• Dark rear lower valance
  
• Distinctive twin ‘figure eight’ exhaust tailpipes
  
• Red enamel Bentley winged ‘B’ badges above the front grille, to the bootlid and wheel centres
  
• 7 exterior colours offered in standard range
  

Sporty, contemporary interior

• New Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneer unique to the V8 models
  
• Eliade cloth headlining and pillar trim
  
• Short centre console in place of W12 through-console
  
• 4 hide colours offered in standard range
  
• Unique two-tone leather colour split
  
• 3 hood colours (Continental GTC)
  

Exhilarating, efficient new 4.0 litre V8 engine

• Exceptional power-to-emissions ratio reflecting engine efficiency
  
• Variable displacement (a technology first proven on the Mulsanne) imperceptibly cuts 4 cylinders on cruise and light throttle
  
• Switchable engine mounts ensure refinement
  
• Engine optimisation technologies boost efficiency
  
• New, close-ratio, 8-speed transmission offers 6 per cent efficiency gain with ultra-fast shifts
  
• Turbochargers mounted within ‘V’ for efficiency and fast response
  
• Over 500 miles (800km) range on one tank of fuel
  
• Distinctive V8 growl
  
• All-wheel drive system with 40:60 rear biased torque split
  

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[smk4565]

Bentley always was a V8 brand, and 500 hp and 25 mpg is nice, not that Bentley owners care about fuel prices. Although the Continental/Flying Spur always seem sort of like "fake" Bentleys to me.

[balthazar]

I see no mention of how the valves are actuated in this 'new', down-market motor.

No one can seriously consider this vehicle for purchase until it is known widely how the valves are actuated.

Edited December 13, 2011 by balthazar

[67impss]

Reel em in

[Hudson]

Bentley always was a V8 brand, and 500 hp and 25 mpg is nice, not that Bentley owners care about fuel prices. Although the Continental/Flying Spur always seem sort of like "fake" Bentleys to me.

How has Bentley "always" been a "V8 brand?" Prior to the VW purchase, Bentley had used TWO V8 engines...a Rolls-Royce engine from 1959 and a BMW engine from the late 1990s. Prior to that, they had six-cylinder and inline eight-cylinder engines (up to 8 litres).

[Robert Hall]

Bentley always was a V8 brand, and 500 hp and 25 mpg is nice, not that Bentley owners care about fuel prices. Although the Continental/Flying Spur always seem sort of like "fake" Bentleys to me.

How has Bentley "always" been a "V8 brand?" Prior to the VW purchase, Bentley had used TWO V8 engines...a Rolls-Royce engine from 1959 and a BMW engine from the late 1990s. Prior to that, they had six-cylinder and inline eight-cylinder engines (up to 8 litres).

Ok... for the last half-century they have been a V8 brand...

[Hudson]

Bentley always was a V8 brand, and 500 hp and 25 mpg is nice, not that Bentley owners care about fuel prices. Although the Continental/Flying Spur always seem sort of like "fake" Bentleys to me.

How has Bentley "always" been a "V8 brand?" Prior to the VW purchase, Bentley had used TWO V8 engines...a Rolls-Royce engine from 1959 and a BMW engine from the late 1990s. Prior to that, they had six-cylinder and inline eight-cylinder engines (up to 8 litres).

Ok... for the last half-century they have been a V8 brand...

Perhaps...but not necessarily by choice. Who chooses to use only ONE engine for nearly 40 years (and its still in production)?

[Robert Hall]

Bentley always was a V8 brand, and 500 hp and 25 mpg is nice, not that Bentley owners care about fuel prices. Although the Continental/Flying Spur always seem sort of like "fake" Bentleys to me.

How has Bentley "always" been a "V8 brand?" Prior to the VW purchase, Bentley had used TWO V8 engines...a Rolls-Royce engine from 1959 and a BMW engine from the late 1990s. Prior to that, they had six-cylinder and inline eight-cylinder engines (up to 8 litres).

Ok... for the last half-century they have been a V8 brand...

Perhaps...but not necessarily by choice. Who chooses to use only ONE engine for nearly 40 years (and its still in production)?

Well, they are a low volume niche maker...and RR owned them for a long time and they were notoriously slow to change...

[Drew Dowdell]

I see no mention of how the valves are actuated in this 'new', down-market motor.

No one can seriously consider this vehicle for purchase until it is known widely how the valves are actuated.

Sidevalves of course.

[Robert Hall]

DOHC.

[Hudson]

I see no mention of how the valves are actuated in this 'new', down-market motor.

No one can seriously consider this vehicle for purchase until it is known widely how the valves are actuated.

Sidevalves of course.

Return of the flathead!!!

[balthazar]

Hudson, there is a gross preponderance online for the terms "always" and "never" to apply, in reality, only to the last 6 months, 2 years, last 10, and so forth... regardless if the history in question goes back 100+.

Sad, isn't it?

[smk4565]

Bentley always was a V8 brand, and 500 hp and 25 mpg is nice, not that Bentley owners care about fuel prices. Although the Continental/Flying Spur always seem sort of like "fake" Bentleys to me.

How has Bentley "always" been a "V8 brand?" Prior to the VW purchase, Bentley had used TWO V8 engines...a Rolls-Royce engine from 1959 and a BMW engine from the late 1990s. Prior to that, they had six-cylinder and inline eight-cylinder engines (up to 8 litres).

Ok... for the last half-century they have been a V8 brand...

Perhaps...but not necessarily by choice. Who chooses to use only ONE engine for nearly 40 years (and its still in production)?

Buick 3800???

[67impss]

SMK go to Wikipedia search Buick 3.8l V6 get educated on how many up dates and new designs there were come back when you learn something and contribute positively please

[balthazar]

Bentley is "all about" pushrods, changing that now is going to KILL sales (because everybody shops with valve actuation as their prime directive, don'tcha kno).

[Robert Hall]

Bentley is "all about" pushrods, changing that now is going to KILL sales (because everybody shops with valve actuation as their prime directive, don'tcha kno).

Actually, Bentley only has the old school pushrod engine in their senior Mulsanne line..the younger, hipper Continental models have a DOHC W12 and now this new V8..

Edited December 14, 2011 by Cubical-aka-Moltar

[balthazar]

Actually, who really cares what the engine specs are for Bentley in the last 3 minutes?

No Bentley owner has any remote idea how to open their car's hood anyway.

[Hudson]

Buick 3800???

The Buick 90-degree V6 was offered in GM products for a few years before being sold to Kaiser where it remained until GM bought it back in the early 1970s.

And more to my point, GM (and even Buick itself) offered other engines. Bentley had one basic V8 engine architecture from 1959 through the mid-1990s.

[balthazar]

^ Positively archaic.

[Robert Hall]

Stop it with the obsessing about the past engine choices. The point of the thread is the new engine. Lots of improvements.

[balthazar]

B-b-but... the other current engine is an Ancient Pushrod Monstrosity, how can ANYONE overlook it ???? Dear God, it's 2011!

Edited December 15, 2011 by balthazar

[Robert Hall]

B-b-but... the other current engine is an Ancient Pushrod Monstrosity, how can ANYONE overlook it ???? Dear God, it's 2011!

It wouldn't surprise me if the new V8 replaces that one also.

[balthazar]

^ With a 50 year run still ongoing, I would be utterly shocked if it was discontinued.

doesn't look like something they're thinking about ditching anytime in the next... 25 years.

[smk4565]

Bentley builds dinosaur cars because that is what most of their owners want. They don't want change, they a Bentley the way it has always been. That is why the Mulsanne and Brooklans type cars will go on for years. And then they have the Continental to try to bring in people under age 70 or that had never driven a Bentley before.

[Lamar]

Interesting how super-ultra luxury Bentleys are using lowly Audi and plebeian Volkswagen engines.

[balthazar]

^ That's why they're irrelevant.