May 2007
As the first new model since Bentley became part of the VW
Group, the Continental GT is a crucial model. It also represents the
modern interpretation of what a Bentley should be, and despite its
price tag it is most competitive in terms of price and sales volume
with more mainstream cars.
The starting point for the GT is its shape. Rather than the traditional
saloon models which have been the mainstay of the Bentley range for
decades, the Continental GT comes in coupe form. It features a
two-plus-two seating arrangement, although the emphasis is on the
comfort of those in the front seats. The exterior styling is a mix of
traditional cues and modern influences, and could certainly be regarded
as a success.
Mechanically the Continental GT is also
radically different to previous Bentleys thanks to its drivetrain and
power source. Related to the VW Phaeton, the Continental GT has a
four-wheel drive transmission to handle the high output engine, a W12
unit of 6.0-litres and twin turbocharged. As well as being the first
application of four-wheel drive in a Bentley, the W12 engine
configuration is also rare.
The combination of a compact coupe body,
four-wheel drive and a high output engine makes the Continental GT a
seriously fast car, and as such puts it in competition with performance
luxury cars outside of the normal customer target. It is also more
accessible to buyers, priced at the lower end of the GBP100,000 barrier
and significantly less than other models in the range.
The GT is also the most versatile car to
be produced by the firm in recent years, delivering a high level of
comfort but also impressive performance. As well as the powerful
engine, the GT has electronically adjustable suspension to cope with
cruising or high performance driving.
Traditional Bentley grille is instantly recognisable
Ratings
Overall Rating
Value for money
Costs
Space and Practicality
Controls and display
Comfort
Security
Safety
Likes
W12 engine has character and is immensely powerful
Cabin is superbly designed and constructed
Excellent blend of comfort and handling
Performance is worthy of a regular supercar
Gripes
Exterior styling is a little controversial
Rear room is at a premium
Running costs likely to be very high
Rear pillars reduce visibility
Our Verdict
The Continental deserves its GT badge, as it
combines looks, performance and luxury into one impressive package. It
successfully combines roles as a large sports car and a comfortable
cruiser, and the high level of quality, luxury and specification give
it an impressive breadth of ability.
Costs
Running costs for the GT will
inevitably be high, thanks to the thirst of the 6.0-litre engine, high
insurance costs and the price of servicing. Its high carbon emissions
will also put it in the highest bracket for excise duty.
Space and Practicality
For a car of its size, the GT is
relatively inefficient in its use of space. The cabin is cosy rather
than spacious, although there is no shortage of room for front seat
passengers. There are a handful of storage spaces in the cabin and the
boot is usefully large.
Controls and Display
The layout of the GT is highly impressive,
with attractive yet clear displays, well labelled switches and controls
and excellent graphics. The major controls are also well designed and
easy to manipulate, adding to the relaxing nature of the driving
experience.
Simple shape is more attractive from some angles
Comfort
The level of comfort on offer in the GT is very impressive, from the
supportive seats and the relaxed cabin to the low wind and engine noise
levels. Passengers in the rear are less well catered for, although the
use of individual seats does improve the amount of support.
Security
A desirable car such as this needs
protection, and the standard alarm and immobiliser system should prove
sufficient to prevent most thieves.
Safety
A high level of active and passive
safety system are present in the GT, aided by the standard four-wheel
drive system. Standard ESP and ABS systems are backed up by airbags
throughout the cabin and a strong safety cell.
Driver Appeal
The driving appeal of the GT comes
from its ability to deal with any sort of driving. The refined
powertrain, comfortable ride and low noise levels make it an excellent
car for covering long distances, yet it is also a capable driver's car,
responding well to inputs and delivering impressive performance with
ease. It may not be as sharp to drive as some of its rivals, but it is
certainly the best at offering both comfort and performance.
Family Appeal
The GT is probably too exclusive and expensive to be a family car, although it would take a family of four without any trouble.
High quality cabin is a joy to use
First Car Appeal
The GT is out of the range of first car buyers, and its performance and costs would be prohibitive.
Quality and image
The quality of the GT is superb
throughout, and is in keeping with standard that Bentley customers
would expect. Especially inside, the GT feels hand made rather than
mass produced, and has the right feel for a luxury car. The image of
the GT is almost as strong, taking the peerless Bentley image and
making it more accessible. It is this that has caused the only
potential demerit, as the GT's popularity has made something of a
common occurrence in certain circles.
Accessibility
Access to the front of the GT is
simple, with a long door on each side that opens wide. The low roofline
does not present a problem either. Passengers getting into the rear
face a more difficult task, as the front seats slide forward a limited
amount.
Stereo and ICE
As standard the GT comes with a high
specification audio system, with a six-CD autochanger and radio. The
sound quality is very good indeed, and is well suited to a car likely
to make long journeys.
Colours and Trim
The exterior of the GT is available in a
variety of shades ranging from the lurid to the conservative, but it is
the more subtle hues that suit its shape. Inside the trim is of a very
high standard, with quality materials in a wide choice of colours.
W12 engine is powerful and flexible
Parking
The GT is relatively straightforward to park for a car of its size,
although the long tail and nose can make it difficult to judge the
proximity of the car to other objects.
Spare Wheel
Space saver spare wheel fitted beneath the boot floor.
Range information
One engine option: 6.0-litre
turbocharged petrol (552bhp). Fitted with six-speed automatic
transmission as standard driving all four wheels. No trim levels.
Alternatives
Aston Martin Vanquish More performance oriented, impressive image
Ferrari 612 Scaglietti Four-seat supercar, looks a matter of taste
Maserati Quattroporte Saloon has the looks to compete, great to drive
Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG Technically incredible but falls behind on style
