New Performance Flagship
A sharper and more focused chapter is beginning for the Bentley Continental GT, as the brand prepares to introduce a new performance flagship, which is expected to once again bear the Supersports badge. This future version shows itself with updated bodywork, likely combined with a stiffer chassis setup and a series of weight reduction measures.
Even more importantly, the new Supersports is expected to abandon the plug-in hybrid all-wheel-drive system of the current Continental GT Speed in favor of an updated non-hybrid twin-turbocharged V8 engine that sends power exclusively to the rear wheels.
Teaser in Sound and Shadows
The new model was first shown in a teaser that revealed some of its secrets and the roaring sound of its engine. Bentley’s official statement was cryptic, but it leaves little doubt about the new variant:
“The return of the legendary name to Bentley is inevitable, 100 years after its first introduction. It will be a rare Bentley – and one that strives for high performance. Another extraordinary car, coming soon. More details will be published in the near future.”
The new Supersports looks similar to a lightly camouflaged prototype that was spotted by our spy photographers just a few months ago. However, the final production version has even more aggressive bodywork.
Updated Exterior Design
The redesigned front bumper has larger air intakes, a pronounced splitter, and dual “canards.” The profile is dominated by a new set of alloy wheels, painted black. Finally, the rear features a fixed rear spoiler, additional fins on the bumper, and a larger diffuser housing four exhaust pipes.
Power Figures
While official numbers are still scarce, the new Continental Supersports is expected to use a more powerful version of the 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, with power around 650 horsepower. On paper, this actually leaves it behind the current GT Speed, which produces 771 hp from its plug-in hybrid system. It also falls short of the last Supersports from 2017, which was equipped with a 700 hp W12 engine. This isn’t entirely an escalation.
Nevertheless, power is only one side of the equation. The new model is expected to lose significant weight compared to the rest of the Continental GT lineup, reportedly weighing in at around 2000 kg. Combined with rear-wheel drive and a chassis tuned for precision, this layout promises a completely different driving experience than the all-wheel-drive GT Speed.
Limited Run and Higher Price
More details are expected to emerge in the coming weeks, but the teaser already hints that the Supersports will be produced in a limited run. This exclusivity will inevitably push its price above the rest of the model range. For context, the Continental GT Speed currently starts from $306,250 in the US, while the Mulliner variant starts from $330,950. Expect the new Supersports to cost significantly more than both.
This move by Bentley from hybrid technology to a more traditional, yet lighter and rear-wheel-drive configuration indicates a shift in emphasis for high-performance luxury cars. Instead of simply increasing power, engineers are focusing on the overall driving feel, weight, and sharpness of handling, which may resonate with purist enthusiasts seeking a more mechanical and rear-wheel-drive experience, unlike the technologically overloaded rivals.