Bentley Continental officially goes V8

In a bid to downsize and reduce emissions, Bentley is giving potential customers the option of buying the Continental GT with an all new 4-litre V8 engine.

The new twin-turbo engine is similar to the one found in the Audi S6, S8, and S7 - however, it has been tuned for a unique power delivery.  Power is rated at 507hp at 6,000 rpm, and 487 lb ft of torque from 1,700 to 5,000 rpm.

The Continental GT V8 will be equipped with a close-ratio ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, which will send drive to all four wheels, allowing a 0-60mph acceleration time of less than five seconds, and a top speed of  over 180mph (290 km/h).  Torque is 40:60 front to rear.

Bentley is also claiming a 40 per cent improvement in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, thanks to: a cylinder deactivation system, high pressure direct injection, low friction bearings, thermal management, energy recuperation, and efficient turbo packaging.   The Continental GT V8 has a claimed fuel range of over 500 miles.

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The Continental GT V8 will ride on 20-inch wheels as standard, while 21-inch wheels will be available as an option.  Other exterior features include a front black grille, as well as a "figure eight" exhaust pipes.

Bentley has yet to release the price for the V8-engined Continental.  However, it will sit below the W12-powered Continentals so we can expect it to be cheaper.  The Continental GT V8 will be shown to the public at next month's North American Interational Auto Show in Detroit.