Newest Bentley convertible to be unveiled

THE Continental GT Speed Convertible, Bentley’s new open-top performance flagship, makes its international debut next Monday at Detroit’s International Auto Show.

No prices have yet been disclosed for what the company has called “the world’s fastest four-seat convertible.”

The new Bentley combines roof-down luxury touring with the performance of a 625 PS (616 bhp) twin-turbocharged 6.0 litre W12 engine, while delivering a 15 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency.

Taking its place at the pinnacle of the Bentley Continental range, the new GT Speed Convertible has a top speed of 325 Kph.  Zero to 100 Kph is reached in 4.4 seconds.

The latest ME17 engine management system, capable of performing 180 million individual calculations per second, provides enhanced turbocharger control and torque management, enhancing driveability.

The close-ratio eight-speed transmission, uprated and lowered suspension and retuned steering provide acceleration and sharp, communicative handling without detriment to the renowned ride comfort of Bentley’s Continental convertible.

Permanent all-wheel drive ensures optimum traction and power delivery whatever the road conditions.

Subtle sporting design cues include 21-inch alloy wheels, dark-tint grilles and ‘rifled’ exhaust tail pipes.

Inside its handcrafted cabin, the GT Speed convertible features the Mulliner Driving Specification as standard, blending contemporary luxury with a distinctly sporting character.

The infotainment system features Bentley’s latest software upgrades, which vary from region to region but include refinements such as point of interest mapping, optional satellite landscape imagery, live traffic data and, where the infrastructure supports it, digital radio.

The system features 15 Gigabytes of available music space, as well as the facility to play music via an iPod, MP3 player, the car’s own six-disc CD changer or SD card.

Commenting on the new Continental GT Speed Convertible, Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive Dr Wolfgang Schreiber said: “Following the recent successful introduction of the GT Speed, the new GT Speed Convertible will appeal to drivers who seek the sensory thrills of the world’s fastest four-seat soft-top and the practicality of a year-round grand tourer, together with unrivalled levels of luxury and refinement. It is designed for those who accept no compromise.”