2011 Bentley MULSANNE

VIDEO: NEWS & REVIEWS The return of the Mulsanne name underlines Bentley’s sporting heritage. Nothing reflects that prowess better than the legendary Le Mans 24 Hours, where its powerful and reliable race cars thundered down the long Le Mans straight into the famous Mulsanne corner, from which the new model takes its name. Echoing the Bentley S-Type of the 1950s, the Mulsanne features a bold frontal design dominated by the traditional Bentley matrix grille and highly prominent, classic round inner headlamps with chrome surrounds, flanked by two, smaller outboard lamp clusters. The iconic “Flying B” retractable radiator mascot is available as an option. The long bonnet, short front overhang and long rear overhang help to convey a sense of power and movement, reinforced by muscular haunches and sharply sculptured lines which flow gracefully from the front wings to the rear. The latest in-car technologies are discreetly placed within the Mulsanne’s sumptuous interior. The upper dashboard houses an 8-inch multimedia screen, positioned unobtrusively behind an electrically operated veneered door. The hand-crafted interior fully reflects traditional Bentley values, executed to the highest possible standards, where customers may tailor their cars to their individual specification. While other powertrain configurations were considered early on in the project, it soon became clear that its target could best be achieved with a totally revised version of the 6¾-litre V8 engine – the very configuration that had been used so successfully in the past. To achieve a significant reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, the Mulsanne V8 sees the introduction of two new control systems: cam phasing and, a first for the ultra-luxury sector, variable displacement. The pioneering use of these two technologies not only adjusts the V8’s breathing for improved engine idle quality and torque delivery, but also to close the valves of four of the eight cylinders for maximum fuel economy when cruising. In the new Mulsanne, the 6¾-litre V8 develops 505 hp while the massive torque (752 lb ft) is now delivered even earlier at 1800 rpm. This dramatic improvement in torque delivery from just above idle and right across the rev range ensures that with a mere tap of the accelerator the driver is immediately rewarded with that characteristic deep, muffled V8 burble and phenomenal acceleration. Overall, CO2 emissions and fuel consumption are reduced by more than 15 percent, in line with Bentley’s environmental commitment. These new technologies are complemented by the new eight-speed automatic transmission which, for the first time on a flagship Bentley, comes with steering-wheel mounted gearshift. A new Drive Dynamics Control system operated by a rotary switch mounted next to the gearshift selector, can be used to select from three standard modes—Bentley, Sport, and Comfort—offering precise calibration of suspension and steering control systems. A fourth mode, “Custom,” allows the driver to select bespoke settings via the multimedia system to tune the Mulsanne to a preferred driving style. A new air suspension system with continuously variable dampers creates an even more refined and comfortable ride at lower speeds, yet can reduce the Mulsanne’s ride height automatically at high speeds to reduce lift and improve aerodynamic stability. With 20-inch alloy wheels and 265/45 ZR 20 tires as standard, dynamic handling is assured. Customers may also opt for 21-inch wheels, available in two styles, fitted with 265/40 ZR 21 tires. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 Bentley CONTINENTAL Supersports

NEWS & REVIEWS The Continental Supersports is the fastest and most powerful Bentley ever. The Supersports is also the first Bentley capable of running on both gasoline and biofuel, pioneering the use of FlexFuel technology in the luxury sector. This represents stage one of the company's commitment to make its complete model range compatible with renewable fuels by 2012. The results are dramatic. With 621 hp and new 'Quickshift' transmission that halves shift times, the Supersports sets new performance benchmarks for Bentley. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds onto a top speed of 204 mph. Supercar performance is complemented by an array of chassis enhancements including retuned steering and suspension, utilizing lighter weight components, retuned dampers and anti-roll bars. Agility is further sharpened by the 40:60 rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel drive system, a wider rear track, bespoke lightweight 20-inch alloy wheels and a unique electronic stability programme. Carbon ceramic brakes are standard fitment, benefiting steering response, grip and ride comfort, while saving weight. Overall, the engineering team have achieved a weight reduction of 110 kg (243 lb) compared with the Continental GT Speed. The evolution of the Supersports' design is very much a case of 'form following function' with new purposeful sculptural forms signalling the engineering changes beneath the skin. For example, the increased power and torque of the W12 engine necessitated additional airflow to the twin turbocharger intercoolers and cooling system. Bentley's designers responded with a purposeful and dramatic style that features large vertical intake apertures and twin bonnet vents. The Supersports is further distinguished from its Continental coupe stable mates by a unique dark-smoked steel finish to all exterior 'brightware', including front grilles, lamp bezels, window surrounds and wheels. A complex 'Physical Vapor Deposition' process is applied to all stainless steel components to give a lustrous and highly durable finish. A car industry first, this process is normally used as a coating on industrial tools, watches and even hip replacement joints. Fully embracing the extreme spirit of the Supersports, Bentley's interior designers have created a unique ambience. The cockpit represents a dramatic re-interpretation of Bentley interior design in which carbon fibre and Alcantara not only convey a sporting and contemporary style but also reduce weight. The new interior also provides a showcase for the skills of Bentley's craftsmen and women at the company's factory in Crewe, England. Signature premium grade leather and brightware are complemented by carbon fibre panels, replacing traditional wood veneers. The Continental Supersports is capable of running on either petrol and E85 biofuel or any combination of the two. E85 biofuel can offer a reduction of up to 70 per cent in CO2 emissions on a 'well-to-wheel' basis. Well-to-wheel is a measurement of a fuel's net CO2 contribution to the atmosphere, not just tailpipe emissions. It is a way of quantifying how much CO2 a fuel emits from its growth or extraction (well) to its combustion or deployment (wheel). It includes refinement, distillation and transport of the fuel. The 'Supersports' name is inspired by the original two-seater 3-litre Supersports model introduced in 1925, itself an evolution of the 3-litre Speed. The lightweight, 85 bhp Supersports was the first production Bentley to reach 100 mph and was also renowned for the application of Le Mans-winning race technology. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Bentley Continental GTC Speed

NEWS & REVIEWS Since its debut in 2006, the Continental GTC has enjoyed sales success in over 50 countries across the globe, attracting younger buyers to the Bentley marque. The appeal of the GTC is further strengthened by the addition of the new 600bhp (610PS) GTC Speed model. It is Bentley’s most powerful convertible ever and inspired by Bentley’s legendary ‘Speed Models’ from the 1920s. The new GTC models share a fresh frontal appearance. The radiator grille is more upright with a more pronounced square edge, accentuating the Bentley profile, and bolder lower air intake. These latest models are further distinguished by chrome headlamp bezels, the availability of two new exterior paints and a new color hide. For the new Continental GTC Speed, Bentley’s twin-turbocharged W12 now develops 600bhp (610PS) that delivers true 200 mph (322 km/h) performance, with the roof up, with exhilarating, effortless acceleration. Even with the roof down the GTC Speed can reach 195 mph (312 km/h). Larger diameter 9.5J x 20-inch, multi-spoke alloy wheels with Bentley-bespoke Pirelli PZero ultra-high performance (UHP) tires, lowered and uprated suspension, wider twin-rifled exhaust tail pipes and a new boot-mounted lip spoiler that enhances high speed aerodynamics, reinforce the sporting character of the Speed model. The 0-60 mph sprint is reached in a mere 4.5 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.8 seconds) and 0-100 mph in 10.6 seconds (0-160 km/h in 10.5 seconds). A sophisticated follow-to-stop, radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system is now available on both GTC and GTC Speed. It uses a long-range radar sensor, mounted in the lower front grille, to monitor the road ahead for other vehicles. When a slower moving vehicle is detected, the system automatically adjusts the throttle or brakes to maintain a ‘time gap’, as selected by the driver. The GT Speed coupe, which debuted in 2007, has become the top selling GT model across the globe. This was followed in summer 2008 by the 4-door Continental Flying Spur Speed. Now, the Speed family is completed with the introduction of the GTC Speed, which is expected to account for up to two-thirds of GTC sales worldwide in its first year of production. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed

NEWS & REVIEWS On the heels of the Bentley Continental GT Speed being introduced in the end of 2007 is word that Bentley will give their Flying Spur the same treatment. That means it will gain the same 6.0L W-12 engine producing an extra 48 horsepower and 74 lbs/ft of torque. That brings the total up to 600 horsepower and 553 lbs/ft of torque at an ultra low 1750 rpm. Despite weighing 2 ¾ tons, zero to sixty should take a scant 4.5 seconds and the Speed should be capable of a breaking all the laws of physics by reaching 200 mph. To make sure the Flying Spur Speed can hit the corners just as fast as it can accelerate, the Speed gets stiffer shocks, thicker anti-roll bars, a lower ride height and improved steering response and feedback. The Speed as well as the base Flying Spur both have small improvements and revisions inside and out. The two biggest are the addition of a radar-based adaptive cruise control and a new, exclusive audio system. The 20-inch multispoke wheels finished in bright silver or dark tungsten, wider tailpipes, dark chrome grill and air intakes as well as the Speed kick plates are the only ways to spot the faster version. by: Benjamin Greene PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Bentley CONTINENTAL Hamann Imperator GT Speed

NEWS & REVIEWS Sportive elegance is the hallmark of the HAMANN-IMPERATOR design: In order to meet the high expectations in its appearance and aerodynamics, the HAMANN -designers completely reconstructed the front of the four-seater. Larger air inlets in connection with perfectly integrated daytime running lights give the Bentley an even more dynamic face. Additionally, the newly designed front optimizes the air flow and therefore reduces the lifting forces at the front axle. Impressive extensions at the front and rear wings broaden the IMPERATOR by 2.76 inches and are contribute significantly to the powerful overall impression of the HAMANN modification. The HAMANN side skirts were modeled in such a way that they calm the air flow at the sides and make the noble sports car looks even lower and more elongated. In order to reduce the lifting forces at the rear axle, the HAMANN technicians fitted an elegant spoiler on the original boot lid of the Bentley and combined it with a diffuser rear skirt for additional down thrust. Matching the striking appearance of the IMPERATOR, HAMANN uses new 22-inch rims. The exceptionally light, multi-part forged wheel has a high-gloss polished rim flange and a black anodized rim star. The recommended wheel/tire combination for the front is 10.5Jx22 inches with tires measuring 265/35ZR-22. At the rear, 11.0Jx22 inch rims are used with tires measuring 305/30ZR-22. HAMANN even offers a 21-inch alternative. Under the designation DESIGN EDITION RACE ANODIZED the refiner offers an ultra-light forged wheel which unites sportiness and elegance in its design. The black rim star and the titanium bolts emphasize the dynamics of the wheel while the high-gloss polished rim flange confirms the noble look. HAMANN offers the 21-inch wheel with tires sized 295/30ZR-21. With a powerful performance enhancement, HAMANN offers the core part of the refining programmed. The upgrade includes a sports end muffler with oval stainless steel end pipes and a new engine management. The result for the Continental GT Speed engine is an extra output of approx. 40hp and a torque increase by 66 lbs.-ft. In addition, the maximum speed for both engines rises by approx. 3 mph compared to their serial counterparts. An interior highlight is the ergonomically newly designed 3-spoke sport steering wheel. Due to its new shape it lies much better in the hand and still offers all functions of the serial steering wheel. In the HAMANN upholstery, the wheel is covered with most precious leather and enhanced with applications made of carbon fiber – this perfectly goes with the multi-part interior set made of same material. No matter if you are looking for black piano finish, leather or ultra-suede – we have everything that makes your heart beat faster. From the personalized floor mat set to a complete leather trim, everything is produced with artisan precision. Individually designed and fitted in the car by expert hand. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Bentley CONTINENTAL GT Speed

NEWS & REVIEWS Did you know that Bentley’s Continental GT Speed holds the world speed record…on ice? Early last year, four-time world rally champion, Juha Kankkunen averaged 199.86 mph in both directions on a frozen stretch of the Baltic Sea in Finland. His one way top speed was an impressive 207 mph. That’s the wonder of all-wheel drive and 602 horsepower under the hood. For everyone who fell in love with the original Continental GT in 2003, the even more sporting Speed is an excuse to buy another. Tweaking the boost output of the turbos gives an extra nine percent more power and 15 percent more torque. That means 0-to-60 mph sprinting in 4.3 seconds—a tenth quicker—and the kind of mid-range thrust that is usually associated with military jets. Styling wise, the Speed gets a redesigned front air intake and a more upright grille along with a set of stunning thin-spoke 20 inch rims. A case of Speed by name, speed by nature. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Bentley CONTINENTAL Edo Competition Speed GT

NEWS & REVIEWS Edo Competition modifies the Bentley Continental GT It was paramount for Edo Competition to turn the Bentley Continental into the world’s fastest GT. Consequentially, particular attention was paid to the engine modifications and all associated components. In factory trim the Bentley reaches a top speed of 203 mph with 610 horsepower. Since this provided a good starting point for the Edo speed GT, the power output of the 6.0-liter W12 engine was increased to 680 horsepower, making Edo Competition’s offering the most powerful GT in the world. The already massive torque output of 553 ft-lb rises to 649 ft-lb at 2,500 rpm. As a result the edo speed GT reaches a top speed in excess of 211 mph and accelerates from zero to 62 mph in a phenomenal 4.2 seconds! Getting this power to the ground are 20 in. racing wheels shod with Sport Contact V-Max tires specially developed by Continental for the edo speed GT. The wheels can be painted according to the customers’ wishes. Edo Competition has developed a new high-performance exhaust system for the speed GT which – along with the ECU recalibration – is responsible for the increased output. The high-flow exhaust is made from stainless steel and produces a wonderfully deep and sonorous sound, ensuring the aural experience is given appropriate attention. A new butterfly valve system (with an optional remote control) provides two different settings for the volume level. The development work for the cat-back exhaust system was performed on a dynamometer. The lowered suspension draws attention to the sporty appearance. The suspension can be adjusted individually thanks to the electronic air suspension control module. The front and rear of the vehicle can be lowered by a maximum of 35 millimeters. As an additional benefit the lowered suspension improves the handling capabilities. Beautiful wrapper: Customers with a desire for guaranteed exclusivity can opt for a custom exterior color scheme. This is realized using a special foil available in any desired color. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Bentley BROOKLANDS

NEWS & REVIEWS Is your net worth in excess of $5 million? Well OK, you can stand in line to buy one of the 550 Bentley Brooklands coupes to be built. But wait. Oops, so sorry, we’ve just learned all 550 cars have already been sold. Can we interest sir in a Continental GT? Despite the Brooklands’ loft.y $348,085 asking price, this magnificent coupe version of the drop-top Azure sold out before you could mouth the words ‘global recession’. It’s a Bentley coupe of the old school; massively over-engineered, obscenely powerful and sumptuously equipped. Even though it weighs more than a Mack truck, it can waft. from standstill to 60 mph in just over five seconds and devour the Autobahn at a rock-steady 184 mph. That’s what happens when you have a massive 774 lbs.-ft. of torque at your disposal. As you’d expect of a car the length of Long Island, there’s no shortage of knee- and headroom in the rear, and the cabin is just a masterpiece of hedonistic luxury and elegance. Call it a coupe de thrill. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Bentley AZURE T

NEWS & REVIEWS • The world's most elegant four-seat convertible now with 500bhp Azure T model • Azure T delivers exhilarating, class-leading performance • Unique Bentley 'T' styling cues reinforce the sleek, sporting stance of the Azure Stylish and powerful, the new Bentley Azure T is the world's most elegant convertible and destined to become a future classic. With unique Bentley 'T' styling cues reinforcing its sporting stance, the 500bhp Azure T delivers driver-focused performance with the ability to transport four adults in first-class, open-top luxury. The new Azure T, specified with the high performance version of Crewe's iconic 6¾ litre V8 engine, is the latest in a line of Bentley models to bear the 'T' legend. The 1996 Continental coupe was the first modern Bentley 'T', followed in 2002 by the Arnage T, both flagship models with a distinctive sporting character and thunderous performance. The Azure's already striking form is now enhanced by 20-inch 5-spoke wheels and tyres, 'Le Mans' front wing vents, dark tint matrix grille and a sculpted, retractable Flying 'B' mascot. For the performance-oriented Azure T, the twin-turbocharged V8 engine produces 500bhp and 1000 Nm of torque – an 11 per cent increase in power and a 14 per cent increase in torque over its 450bhp/875 Nm Azure stable mate. The famous Bentley wave of torque is even more prodigious than before and performance is significantly raised with a top speed of 179 mph (288 km/h) and a 0-60 mph time of just 5.2 seconds (0-100 km/h in 5.5 sec). • Exterior design styling changes, as standard, include: 20-inch five-spoke 'Bright Finish' alloy wheels, Retractable 'Flying B' bonnet mascot, Dark tint matrix upper and lower grilles, 'Le Mans' lower front wing air vents, Bentley 'Jewel' fuel filler cap, Twin exhaust tail pipes, Choice of 42 exterior paint colours • Interior design enhancements, as standard, include: Diamond quilting to seats and door panels, Drilled alloy brake and accelerator pedals, 'Engine-turned' aluminium finish to fascia Instrument faces in black, Embroidered 'Bentley' emblems to front seats and rear seat centre, iPod/USB interface, Choice of 8 unbleached veneers and 25 hides from full Bentley range, Knurled finish to: organ stops, mirror adjustors, door handles (interior and exterior), light switch and seat lumbar controls, Knurled & chromed gear knob • Further enhancements to the standard Azure T specification include: Large display audio head unit with Secure Digital (SD) memory card slot, Hide covered boot rail • Further enhancements to the Azure T optional specification include: 'Naim for Bentley' premium audio system delivering the world's best in-car sound stage and featuring 10 speakers, a dual channel sub-woofer and an 1100 Watt amplifier, plus eight individual Digital Signal Processor (DSP) modes to reproduce true emotions and a 'live' concert-like experience. • Arnage T powertrain with 6¾ litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing 500bhp and 1000 Nm of torque – increases of 11% and 14 % respectively • Top speed raised to 179 mph (288 km/h). • 0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds (0-100 km/h in 5.5 seconds). • Acceleration to 100 mph cut to 12.1 seconds (0-160 km/h in 12.0 seconds). • Six-speed ZF automatic transmission with sophisticated locking torque converter provides fast yet ultra-smooth gearshifts • Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) logic system improves dynamic response and handling with less intrusive intervention when a reduction in grip is detected • Tyre Pressure Monitoring System fitted as standard PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2008 Bentley Continental GT Premier4509 Design Package

NEWS & REVIEWS The people out of Japan that brought you the Reventon-esque aerodynamic package for the Lamborghini Murcielago have just introduced a wide-body package for the Bentley GT. Unlike the Lamborghini, the Bentley GT has become as common place on the city streets as beautiful people are in Miami. Only 100 packages, each with their own serial number, will be delivered. This means the 4509Premier aero kit will be sure to bring out those exclusive impressions you want from anyone that comes across it. The entire kit will consist of front bumper, side skirts, rear bumper, front fenders and rear quarter panels that are constructed on carbon fiber and fiber reinforced plastic. The kit increase the car’s width by 4 inches, thus the wide-body name. In addition, metalwork will be offered by way of a custom 4 piece bumper grill set along with new exhaust tips. Two wing variations will be offered for individuals to choose from. The only drawback to this package is there is no performance upgrades or benefits. Which means you’ll be driving around in the flashiest, most aggressive-looking ride on the road without the added horsepower to back up your claim. by: Benjamin Greene PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge