Bentley has revealed the second generation of the popular Bentley Continental GTC, an updated, muscular version which is set to debut at next month’s International Automobile Exhibition in Frankfurt.
While the first Continental GTC was elegant and understated, the sharper radii and assertive stance of the new model commands a more contemporary and muscular presence. Exterior-wise, aluminium front wings without visible seams or welds create the look and feel of a coach-built car. Owners may also choose between three different 21-inch wheels, a first for GTC, reinforcing the distinctively sporty stance of the new Bentley.
The new four-seater's interior boasts a more spacious and sumptuous hand-crafted cabin, with premium leather hides, an extensive range of wood veneers, cool-touch metals and deep-pile carpets. Owners will be spoilt for choice, with 17 standard soft-touch leather hide colours with six colour split combinations, complemented by a range of seven veneers, all produced by Bentley’s talented craftsmen and women.
The GTC’s renowned coupe-like refinement is also enhanced. The tailored, multi-layered fabric hood is complemented by acoustic glass and under-body panels, for optimum noise isolation.
The cabin of the new GTC also showcases innovative features such as touch-screen infotainment, automatic seat-belt presenters and a Bentley-designed Neck Warmer for comfortable roof-down motoring whatever the temperature.
A wider track, front and rear, sharper steering and retuned suspension provides an exhilarating drive. Bentley’s advanced all-wheel drive system features a new 40:60 rear torque bias (compared with 50:50 of the original GTC) minimising understeer during hard cornering and allowing the driver to manage the car’s line and balance via precise throttle control.
This dynamic package is completed with a more powerful 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged W12 engine as well as a new QuickShift transmission enabling faster gear changes than ever before. Power output is raised from 560PS to 575PS (567bhp/423kW) and the famed Bentley ‘wave of torque’ has been increased by a further 50Nm to 700Nm (516lb ft).
The Bentley Continental GTC is now available to order. The first customer deliveries will begin in late 2011.
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