Bentley expands hybrid line-up with new 500kW powertrain
Here’s all you need to know after Bentley added a second plug-in hybrid powertrain to its line-up.
Bentley has added a second plug-in hybrid powertrain to its Continental GT and GT Convertible, and Flying Spur ranges.
Looking for a new or used Bentley? Find it here with CARmag!
The new High-Performance Hybrid delivers 500kW and 930Nm, replacing the brand’s iconic W12 engine across all standard and Azure models. This move completes Bentley’s shift to an all-hybrid V8 line-up for its grand tourers and luxury saloons.
The new powertrain pairs a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 with a powerful electric motor. It joins the more potent 574kW Ultra Performance Hybrid used in the Speed and Mulliner variants. Despite being the less powerful of the two, the new unit outperforms the previous W12 in every area — offering more power, greater torque, faster acceleration and significantly improved efficiency.
In the Continental GT, the 500kW hybrid setup allows for a 0–100km/h sprint in 3.7s, while the GT Convertible completes the 0-100km/h dash in a claimed 3.9s. The electric-only driving range is rated at up to 85km for the coupé and 82km for the convertible. CO₂ emissions are impressively low — 29g/km and 31g/km for the coupé and drop-top models, respectively. The new models also feature Bentley’s Active Chassis technology, which includes Dynamic Ride adaptive suspension, rear-wheel steering and an electronic limited-slip differential. Drivers can choose from Comfort, Bentley or Sport modes to suit their driving style or conditions.
Related: Review: Bentley Continental GT
Design changes are subtle but deliberate. The Continental GT and GT Convertible feature Bentley’s signature matrix grille in gloss black with a chrome surround and centre bar. The lower bumper grilles are finished in matte black, while the splitter is gloss black. A new headlamp design — called Harmony — draws inspiration from cut crystal and includes a welcome animation, mirrored by similarly animated taillamps. Inside, hand-stitched leather seats follow a straight-fluted pattern, and customers can choose between bright or dark chrome finishes for controls and interior trim.
Buyers looking for more comfort-focused options can choose the new Azure versions. These models get a distinctive vertical-vaned grille, 22-inch machined alloy wheels, Azure badging and special exterior trim. Inside, the Azure models feature 3D Harmony diamond-quilted seats, contrast stitching, open-pore crown cut walnut veneer and illuminated Azure-branded treadplates. Bentley’s Wellness seating system is also standard, offering ventilation and heating, and massage functions designed to promote long-distance comfort and reduce fatigue.
The Azure package also includes Bentley’s Touring, Comfort and Lighting specifications as standard. In the coupé, this includes a panoramic sunroof, while the convertible features a neck warmer for roof-down driving in cooler weather.
The Flying Spur receives the same 500kW hybrid system, and accelerating from 0–100km/h in 3.9s. It shares the same visual cues and interior options as the Continental models. The Flying Spur Azure adds four Wellness seats, ambient lighting and all of Bentley’s latest comfort and assistance features.
Click here and browse thousands of new and used vehicles here with CARmag!
The post Bentley Expands Hybrid Line-Up With New 500 kW Powertrain appeared first on CAR Magazine.
