The W12 engine is "the ultimate expression of Bentley's engineering strength" according to the manufacturer. But it also has recognized a need for different engine variants to satisfy tighter fuel-economy and emissions regulations and the demand for a sportier driving dynamic. In response, the Flying B plans to roll out V8 variants of its Continental GT and GTC models at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit next month.

The 4.0-liter 500-horsepower twin-turbo mill puts out 487 lb-ft of torque, which Bentley says is "available across virtually the entire rev range from 1700 to 5000 rev/min. It also can push the Continentals to a top speed of more than 180 mph, with a claimed sprint to 60 mph of less than five seconds. There's also a variable-displacemen​t feature, first demonstrated on the Mulsanne, that allows the engine to operate on four cylinders when cruising and during light throttle use. The V8 is mated to a close-ratio 8-speed gearbox, which Bentley says offers a 6 percent efficiency gain. It has yet to release specific details, though the W12 variants use an automatic transmission with paddle shifters, and that's unlikely to change.

Bentley will visually set apart the V8 variants with a black gloss matrix grille, a red enamel "B" badge, a 3-segment bumper with figure-eight exhaust pipes, black air intakes and a lower rear valance. There's also an exclusive Diamond Black color for the optional 21-inch 6-spoke alloy wheels (20-inch alloys are standard).

There are seven standard exterior colors and a Eucalyptus interior exclusive to the V8 Continentals -- though, in true Bentley fashion, the crew at Crewe can make your vehicle look virtually any way you can imagine it -- for a price.

No word on how much the smaller powerplant reduces the vehicles' heft. The W12 Continental GT coupe comes in at 5,180 pounds. Curb weight, pricing and official EPA numbers for the new models will be revealed at Detroit. Until then, take another listen to that intoxicating V8 growl.


[Source: Bentley.]