As suspected, Bentley isn’t dropping the V8 just yet. The company has just confirmed some details of the next-gen Continental GT due in 2025, which will come powered by a hybrid V8.
Bentley is still putting the final touches on the next-gen model, but it confirms it will come with a new “Ultra Performance Hybrid” powertrain, consisting of a V8 paired with an electric motor assist system combining to produce a colossal 575kW and 1000Nm. Yep, 1000Nm.
That means it is very likely to come in as the quickest and fastest Continental GT ever. In fact, Bentley calls it the “most powerful and most dynamically capable” road car it has ever created. But thanks to its ability to run on electric power alone for 80km, it’s also going to be the most sustainable model yet.
Aside from the epic powertrain performance, the 2025 Continental GT will boast of number of advanced driving technologies, including active all-wheel drive with torque vectoring, four-wheel steering, active anti-roll via a 48V electrical architecture, dual-valve adaptive dampers, and an electronic limited-slip differential.
In terms of the design, we can only speculate using these preview images that show a prototype on a track. However, it’s clear to see some resemblance to the outgoing Continental GT design. Muscular rear haunches, a long bonnet, oval headlights and taillights all seem familiar.
This is just a prototype, though, and the final design is likely to be different to what’s presented here. Speaking about the importance of the Continental in Bentley’s lineup and history, the company said:
“Originally unveiled in 2002, the Continental GT started the rebirth of Bentley. The car was to transform the business, catalysing a ten-fold increase in sales and redefining Bentley for the modern era. Both the design inspiration, and the performance ethos of the Continental GT, came from the R Type Continental of 1952 – the fastest four-seat car in the world at the time, which defined the concept of a luxury Grand Tourer.”
Bentley says the 2025 Continental GT will be the first model to adopt its Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain, which suggests it will make its way over to other models such as the Bentayga in the not-too-distant future.
At the moment the Bentayga is offered with a twin-turbo V6 hybrid but, although it is impressive, it doesn’t match the majestic charm of a V8. All will be revealed on June 5.
