Bentley Continental GT V8 S Convertible

Continental GT V8 S Convertible Review

Bentley owes its global domination in the luxury car segment to models like the Continental GT. This model was released in 2003 and, over the decade or so, has emerged as popular name in the car market. The model is available in a list of variants, one among which is the Bentley Continental GT V8 S Convertible. A highlight of this variant is its convertible format, which further adds to its already exalting appeal. The car is powered by a massive V8 engine, which delivers strong performance, but also ensures that the fuel economy is not compromised. Coming to the looks of the machine, it has a wide and powerful stance. A slender and aerodynamic shape further enhances its looks. The vehicle owes its bold demeanour to its muscular hood, distinctive body lines and noticeable wheel fenders. Coming to the inside of the car, the cabin offers a rich and energetic aura to go with the drive. Fine seat upholstery, attractive accents and a range of other design elements improve the interior environment to its best. Beside this, the passengers are kept engaged with some good comfort and convenience functions, along with a superior grade entertainment system.

Exteriors:

The vehicle has a sporty, muscular stance that is handsome in design. At the front, it bears an attractively modeled grille that fits into the overall look perfectly. The emblem of the company is adorned atop this. On either side of the frontage, there are two circular headlamps. These are equipped with Bi-Xenon light functions, along with an LED main beam support, ensuring that the road is kept well lit for the driver always. The hood is large and masculine in design, accentuating the vehicle's powerful look from the front. Coming to the side facet, there are 20 inch open spoke design alloy wheels that make for a pleasant appeal. The red painted brake calipers also add to the visual treat. Behind the front wheels, the new all-bright fenders makes a strong statements. A highlight of this variant is its convertible format. The sleek electric soft top is sophisticated in design, and it tailors the exteriors for a sporty edge. Furthermore, with the roof withdrawn, the vehicle strikes an even more stunning pose.

Interiors:

The cabin is both luxurious in design and equipped with several comfort features. Carefully selected leather layer the interiors, ensuring the most vibrant environment. Furthermore, the handcrafted luxury of the cabin also includes smooth metal surfaces for a more modern touch. The steering wheel is attractively designed and suited for a firm hold always. The multi-functional steering wheel accompanied by paddle shift gear selectors ensure that shifting gears is done with ease and comfort. The center console is shorter, allowing for more space to the rear seat passengers. Piano Black veneers also add value to the detailing of the cabin. These are sanded and and lacquered up to eighteen times for the most uncompromising quality. The sophistication of the cabin is improved with the presence of a screen upfront. There are headrests for all of the seats, offering support to the passengers' heads and necks. The crest of the company is adorned on the headrests for a more conspicuous quality. armrests are present by the center for both front passengers, giving added convenience for the course of the drive. The air conditioning vents are circular and impressive in design, and they are highlighted in metal as well. The speakers for the musical system are situated about the cabin, with one of them visible at the bottom corner of the front door.

Engine and Performance:

The car is armed with a 4-litre twin turbocharged V8 engine. The drivetrain is composed of eight cylinders, and can displace 3993cc. In addition to this, it produces a max power of 521bhp at 6000rpm, and a peak torque of 680Nm at 1700rpm. The engine is accompanied by an eight speed transmission that allows flawless and easier gear shifting for efficient performance. Altogether, the car can travel to a top speed of 309kmph. Furthermore, it can soar from naught to 100kmph within just 4.3 seconds. It offers a mileage of 9kmpl, which is decent considering its performance and stature.

Braking and Handling:

The vehicle's engineering ensures that all its build aspects are of strong quality, and this includes its braking and suspension systems. For a more efficient braking quality, there are strong iron brakes along with red painted calipers. As for the suspension system, the vehicle is gifted with a sports suspension setup along with an electronic height adjustment feature for improved ride stability. Beside this, air springs with a continuous damping control function also ensure that road anomalies are eliminated for an enjoyable and quality ride. Uprated anti roll bars are also a boon to the control aspect of the drive, offering improvements in the agility and balance of the ride.

Comfort Features:

Among the comfort and entertainment features that the cabin offers, foremost is an advanced Infotainment system. This is present alongside an 8 inch touch screen in the center console. A 30GB hard drive stores mapping data, live traffic data and other vital functions for added drive comfort. Bluetooth connectivity is present inside the cabin, which allows for musical streaming through Bluetooth enabled phones. Call hosting can also be done in addition to this. For improving the car's connectivity to its finest, the company is also offering a WiFi option alongside this. Also, a 'Naim' Bentley Premium Audio System is available as an option, providing high quality entertainment along with 11 advanced speakers.

Safety Features:

The car has airbags that offer protection from serious injuries in case of a crash. Beside this, the all wheel drive system ensures a stable control always. This is further upgraded by the sound suspension arrangement, and the good braking system as well. Powerful Bi-Xenon lights, along with LED lights, together provide optimum visibility to the driver on all road conditions. There is a wiper for the windscreen, keeping the front window clear on wet weather conditions. An electronic stability control facility works to improve the drive stability and safety to the highest.

Pros:

1. Powerful engine and great performance.

2. Luxuriously designed cabin arrangement.

Cons:

1. More comfort features could be given as standard.

2. It is rather expensive for Indian buyers.