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Bentley Continental GT

Exotic · Bentley

Bentley Continental GT: Bentley's luxury grand tourer (2003+). Multiple generations. W12 or AMG-derived V8 powertrains. The defining m
Photo: Alexandre Prevot from Nancy, France / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 2.0

Bentley's luxury grand tourer (2003+). Multiple generations. W12 or AMG-derived V8 powertrains. The defining modern Bentley product.

The Bentley Continental GT is a luxury grand tourer produced since 2003 across three generations. The Continental GT was the defining modern Bentley product, establishing the brand new era under Volkswagen Group ownership. Twin-turbocharged W12 making 552-635 horsepower has been the signature engine; V8 options have been added over time. Multiple Continental GT generations: First (2003-2011), Second (2011-2018), Third (2018+). The current third-generation Continental GT uses a 6.0L twin-turbo W12 (700 horsepower in Speed) or 4.0L AMG V8 (550 horsepower). All-wheel drive standard. The Continental GT Speed variant is the focused performance trim. The Continental GT Black Edition adds blacked-out trim and aggressive styling. The Mulliner W12 represents the focused performance variant. On WhipJury, Continental GT submissions are common, particularly W12 and V8 Speed variants. Modified Continental GTs appear regularly.

Continental GT generations

First (2003-2011). Original. 6.0L twin-turbo W12.

Second (2011-2018). Refined first generation.

Third (2018+). Current. New chassis, refined powertrain.

Frequently asked questions about Bentley Continental GT

How does Continental GT compare to Aston Martin DB11?
Direct competitors. Continental GT has more refined daily character and W12 power. DB11 has more aggressive sport tuning. Both are excellent grand tourers; choice depends on whether daily refinement or sport character is preferred. The Bentley is heavier and more luxurious; the Aston Martin is lighter and more aggressive.
How much does a Continental GT cost?
Used pricing varies dramatically. First-generation Continental GTs: $30,000-$60,000+. Second-generation: $60,000-$120,000+. Third-generation: $130,000-$220,000+. Speed variants are at the higher end. New 2024 Continental GT: starts around $250,000+.
Are Continental GTs reliable?
Mixed. The W12 engine has been generally durable. Common issues for Bentleys: air suspension components, cooling system items, occasional electronic concerns. Maintenance is expensive due to specialty parts and limited dealer support. The V8 powertrain has been more reliable than the W12.
Is the Continental GT really worth $250,000+?
Subjective. The Continental GT competes with cars at lower price points (Porsche 911 Turbo, Mercedes S-Class) on absolute performance. The Bentley premium pays for hand-built luxury, brand prestige, and Mulliner customization options. For buyers wanting traditional luxury grand-tourer character, the Continental GT delivers.
What is the Mulliner Continental GT?
Mulliner is Bentley in-house bespoke division. Mulliner Continental GTs are configured to client specifications with extensive customization options. The Mulliner W12 trim level is the standard production performance variant. Bespoke Mulliner Continental GTs can be ordered with virtually any customization within Mulliner program.

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