New, 2012 Bentley Continental twin-turbo V8 is green, yet still mean

If you’re hell-bent on a new Bentley, but can’t deal with the eco-guilt of owning an outrageous 631bhp 12-cylinder behemoth, then how about this distinctly-saintly new 4-litre, V8 motor? It’s a whole 40 per cent more efficient - full figures to follow next year - but is still said to deliver that tarmac-curling “Bentley wave” of torque when you absolutely need it. When, for example, your takeaway is getting cold.

A peak torque figure of 487lb ft, available from just 1700rpm, should get that chicken chow mien on the table in a pleasantly piping fashion. And all to the deep and delicious tune that V8s sing so well. 180mph+, a new close-ratio 8-speed automatic transmission and a single-tank-range of over 500 miles, are also on tap. 

The new V8’s neatest eco-trick is an engine management system that is said to seamlessly cut the V8 to a V4 mode under light throttle load, like motorway cruising. Half the cylinders, half the consumption. It’s not a new idea as such; it’s just a case of how sweetly and smoothly you execute it in and out of eco-mode. 

The 2012 Bentley Continental V8 GT and GTC (convertible) will go on show for the first time at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit next January, and while it’ll mostly look sumptuously the same as the top-ranger W12, there are some subtle differences to note. 

Up front, the new V8 gets 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 matching body-coloured strakes. 

At the rear, unique chromed “figure eight” exhaust tailpipes, a dark lower valance and red enamel “B” bootlid badge dedicate the V8 only, while the undercarriage is enhanced by arch-busting 20-inch alloy wheels as standard, with an upgrade option to a titanic 21-inch 6-spoke style, all available in either Diamond Black or Diamond Silver finishes. 

Frugal under the hood indeed, but there’s been no skimping on the inside with an Eliade cloth headlining, new Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneers and an optional two-tone leather colour split. Keep that sloppy Chinese off the seats then!

www.bentleymotors.com














By Daniel Anslow

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