Bentley Continental GT Supersports Revealed: A 657-HP, Rear-Drive Masterpiece

The air crackled with anticipation. A low rumble, almost a growl, echoed through the cobblestone streets of Crewe. It wasn’t just any engine; it was the sound of a legend reborn. The Bentley Continental GT Supersports. This isn’t just an update; it’s a revolution. Whispers had been circulating for months, grainy spy shots fueling the frenzy. But now, bathed in the pale morning light, it was real. And oh, was it spectacular. Bentley has just unveiled what promises to be one of the most exciting cars in its history – a true driver’s machine. A rear-wheel drive Continental GT with a monstrous 657 horsepower. (I swear, I could hear the collective gasp of every car enthusiast on the planet.)

This isn’t your grandfather’s Bentley. Forget the plush carpets and the afternoon tea set (though, let’s be honest, those are still available as options). This is a Bentley that wants to play. A Bentley that wants to get sideways. A Bentley that wants to remind you why you fell in love with driving in the first place. The unveiling was a closed-door event, but my sources (who shall remain nameless, for fear of Bentley’s wrath) tell me the atmosphere was electric. You could practically feel the horsepower pulsating from the car itself. The focus is clearly on pure, unadulterated performance. That 657-horsepower figure is not a typo; it’s a statement.

But it’s not just about power. It’s about control, about balance, about connecting the driver to the road in a way that few other cars can. The switch to rear-wheel drive is a bold move, a clear signal that Bentley is serious about appealing to the purists. “It’s a game changer,” one insider whispered to me over a shaky phone call. “It’s the most engaging Continental GT we’ve ever built.” Engaging, indeed. The word on the street is that the steering is sharper, the throttle response is more immediate, and the overall driving experience is simply breathtaking. The Continental GT Supersports represents a shift, a daring step forward for Bentley.

The Heart of the Beast: Engine and Performance

The cornerstone of the Continental GT Supersports is, without a doubt, its monstrous engine. We’re talking about a heavily reworked version of Bentley’s venerable 6.0-liter W12, now producing a staggering 657 horsepower and an earth-shattering amount of torque. Sources suggest that improvements to the turbochargers, intercoolers, and engine management system are responsible for the power bump.

It’s not just the peak numbers that impress, but the way the power is delivered. The engine is said to offer a seemingly endless wave of torque, pulling strongly from virtually any RPM. This translates into effortless acceleration and breathtaking overtaking ability. Prepare to be pinned to your seat.

• Engine: 6.0-liter W12
• Horsepower: 657 hp
• Torque: 600 lb-ft (estimated)
• Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
• Transmission: 8-speed Automatic

Performance figures are, understandably, impressive. Expect a 0-60 mph time in the low three-second range and a top speed exceeding 200 mph. But these numbers only tell half the story. It’s the raw emotion, the visceral thrill of unleashing that power, that truly defines the Supersports experience. One engineer, who asked to remain anonymous, described the feeling as “pure, unadulterated savagery.” Sounds good to me!

A Bold Move: Rear-Wheel Drive

Perhaps the most significant departure from the standard Continental GT is the switch to rear-wheel drive. This may seem like a minor change on paper, but it has a profound impact on the car’s handling and character. By removing the front driveshafts, Bentley has not only reduced weight but also eliminated the understeer that can plague all-wheel-drive cars.

The result is a car that feels more agile, more responsive, and more engaging to drive. The rear-wheel drive setup allows the driver to more easily control the car’s balance with the throttle, making it possible to drift the car through corners with precision and confidence. Of course, this also means that the Supersports requires a higher level of skill and attention from the driver. This isn’t a car for the faint of heart.

Bentley has undoubtedly implemented a comprehensive suite of electronic stability controls to help keep things in check, but the Supersports is still a car that demands respect. It’s a car that rewards skillful driving and punishes mistakes. This is part of its appeal. It’s a machine that connects with the driver on a deeply emotional level.

“We wanted to create a Continental GT that would truly excite and engage the driver,” said a Bentley spokesperson during the unveiling. “The rear-wheel drive configuration was essential to achieving that goal.”

Design and Aerodynamics

The Continental GT Supersports isn’t just about raw power and handling; it also boasts a striking and purposeful design. The exterior has been subtly tweaked to improve aerodynamics and enhance the car’s aggressive stance.

Key design features include:

* Revised front splitter and rear diffuser
* Carbon fiber accents on the side skirts and mirrors
* Lightweight alloy wheels
* A subtle rear spoiler

These changes not only improve the car’s performance but also give it a more menacing and purposeful appearance. The Supersports looks fast even when it’s standing still. (And believe me, it doesn’t stand still for long.)

Inside, the Supersports retains the luxurious appointments that are synonymous with Bentley. However, there are also a few subtle changes to reflect the car’s performance-focused nature. These include:

* Alcantara trim on the steering wheel and seats
* Carbon fiber accents on the dashboard and door panels
* Unique Supersports badging

The interior is a perfect blend of luxury and sportiness, creating a truly special driving environment. Imagine sinking into those Alcantara seats, gripping the steering wheel, and feeling the surge of power as you accelerate. Pure bliss.

Technology and Features

While the Continental GT Supersports is primarily focused on performance, it doesn’t skimp on technology and features. The car is equipped with all the latest gadgets and gizmos, including:

* A high-resolution infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
* A premium sound system
* A suite of advanced driver-assistance systems

However, Bentley has wisely resisted the urge to overload the car with unnecessary technology. The focus remains on the driving experience, and the technology is there to enhance, not detract from, that experience.

The Supersports also features a number of unique performance-focused technologies, such as:

* A launch control system
* An adjustable suspension
* A performance exhaust system

These features allow drivers to fine-tune the car to their specific needs and preferences, whether they’re attacking a racetrack or simply cruising down the highway.

Pricing and Availability

The Bentley Continental GT Supersports is not going to be cheap. Pricing is expected to start well above the standard Continental GT, reflecting the car’s increased performance and exclusivity. While an exact MSRP has not yet been officially released, industry analysts predict a starting price around $350,000. Start saving now!

Availability will also be limited, with Bentley planning to produce only a small number of Supersports models each year. This will undoubtedly make the car highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

Potential buyers are encouraged to contact their local Bentley dealer as soon as possible to express their interest. Don’t wait too long, or you might miss out on the opportunity to own one of the most exciting cars ever built.

The Competition

The Bentley Continental GT Supersports enters a highly competitive market segment, facing off against rivals such as the Aston Martin DBS Superleggera and the Ferrari Roma. Each of these cars offers a unique blend of performance, luxury, and style.

The Aston Martin DBS Superleggera is a brutal and uncompromising grand tourer, with a powerful V12 engine and a sharp, aggressive design. The Ferrari Roma, on the other hand, is a more elegant and refined offering, with a focus on style and comfort.

The Continental GT Supersports occupies a unique position in this segment, offering a blend of British luxury, raw power, and engaging handling. It’s a car that appeals to drivers who want the best of both worlds. It’s a grand tourer that can also deliver a thrilling driving experience on the track.

Conclusion

The Bentley Continental GT Supersports is a truly remarkable car. It’s a testament to Bentley’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and luxury. The switch to rear-wheel drive is a bold move that pays off handsomely, creating a car that is more engaging, more responsive, and more thrilling to drive than ever before. The 657-horsepower engine delivers breathtaking performance, while the striking design and luxurious interior complete the package.

The Supersports is not just a car; it’s an experience. It’s a statement. It’s a celebration of the art of driving. It’s a car that will undoubtedly become a legend. If you have the means, and the desire for the ultimate driving experience, the Bentley Continental GT Supersports is a car that deserves your serious consideration. Just be prepared to handle the power! (And maybe take a few drifting lessons first.) I, for one, am already dreaming of the day I get to slide behind the wheel. This is one Bentley I won’t soon forget.