Few luxury sports cars can be described as contemporary classics. One of them is the Bentley Continental GT. The English automaker has introduced a new convertible version of the GT that positions itself as one of the most attractive cabriolets in the market for its spectacular level of comfort and its new 4L V20 engine with 520 horsepower, capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in only 4.3 seconds.

4L bi-turbo V8 engine
• 520 horsepower and 502 lb/ft of peak torque at 1700rpm
• Significantly reduced emissions and consumption
• Accelerates from 0 to 60 m/h in 4.3 seconds
• Maximum speed 191 m/h

If we describe the Bentley Continental GT as a contemporary classic, it’s because it was originally introduced in 2003 and, after nearly 15 years of history, it remains the reference vehicle within its segment. In all these years, it has managed to stay competitive thanks to subtle design changes with significant technological advances, mainly in its renewed, more powerful engine.

Hand-sewn leathers, carved metals, polished wood and embedded carbon fiber make for a noticeable but incredibly inviting ambiance.

For the new convertible, the brand heeds the current downsizing trend and goes from a huge 6.0L W12 to a modern V8 bi-turbo of 4.0 liters and 520 horsepower. The smaller engine allows significant weight reduction, which translates into less fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Aside from accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds (0.5 seconds faster than the larger W12), one of the new engine’s highlights is the sound that comes from the exhaust outlets. Combined with its 8-speed automatic transmission, each recess generates a powerful roar.

The exterior features singular changes, such as the large Beluga-gloss textured grills on the front, rear-view mirrors lined with the same material, headlights with black details, aerodynamic wings on the sides and diffusers on the rear of the vehicle.

The car’s interior continues to offer the supreme luxury we expect from the brand. Bentley insists on offering an impeccable selection of materials and finishes. Hand-sewn leathers, carved metals, polished wood and embedded carbon fiber make for a noticeable but incredibly inviting ambiance.

Despite the fact that this is a convertible, four passengers travel in complete comfort, enjoying a smooth and pleasant ride generated by a system of variable suspensions that absorbs impact. Also, the ceiling’s insulation ensures an almost perfect soundproofing.

he less attractive aspects of the vehicle are its multimedia components, instrumentation, transmission, and active safety systems, which are somewhat dated compared to similar models produced by other manufacturers.

Even if it doesn’t offer the latest technology, the Continental GT S convertible guarantees a superlative luxury that’s hard to find in other brands, and its allure continues to attract enthusiastic costumers.  ■