Introduced in 2004, the Continental GT quickly became Bentley's best-seller. Arguably, it launched a new segment of luxury cars priced lower than the usual fare from ultra-luxury brands but higher than top models from the likes of BMW and Jaguar. It was a risky move. It paid off. I've always respected that, but I've never liked the Continental as much as I wanted to.
Until now: For 2012, a collection of seemingly small improvements make the redesigned Bentley Continental GT the car I always thought it could be.
Though several Continental body styles and versions are already available as 2012 models, only the regular GT Coupe reviewed here has been fully redesigned (it skipped the 2011 model year). The GTC convertible is on hold for 2012 but is likely to return for 2013. Still available with some upgrades are the Supersports, in coupe and convertible body styles, and the four-door Flying Spur.
Though ultra-lux buyers aren't as concerned as most of us about gas prices, they're sure to appreciate the Continental's EPA-estimated mileage improvement: 12/19 mpg city/highway on premium gas over the 2010 model's 10/17 mpg. With this, the gas-guzzler tax has decreased by $700, to $3,000. The standard W-12 flex-fuel engine can run on E85, which is 85 percent ethyl alcohol and 15 percent gasoline. On this fuel, however, mileage drops to 8/14 mpg.
Bentley says a higher-mileage V-8 engine option will come later in 2011.
Exterior and styling
The deftly restyled GT is like a Hollywood star who's received the best kind of plastic surgery: Many people don't notice anything has been done, but it sure looks great. The most significant change comes from more creases and body lines, stronger haunches and a more squared-off rear end. In short, it now looks less like the world's fastest bar of soap. Where previous model years drew attention for their uniqueness and obviously high price tag, virtually all comments I received during my time with the 2012 were raves about the styling itself.
My one styling complaint is an old one: The chrome grille, which is larger than ever, looks cheap. Most grilles are plastic, but they needn't look that way. I've said the same in the past -- mainly about Jaguars and prior Bentleys -- and it hasn't improved from either brand. Grilles ain't sheet metal; they can be changed relatively easily. I hope this one will be.
US Auto Enterprises is an organization of informants that will handle all your needs, through dealerships to the transportation. We can have your brand new car deliver directly to your door! We have a wide variety of automobiles to choose from, we can save you thousands on the car of your dream. Let US Auto Enterprises uncover all of the hidden dealer cash, with absolutely no hassle. Call 1-888-705-6787 or 1-561-577-8386
US Auto Enterprises
1-888-705-6787
www.usautoenterprises.com
sales@usautoenterprises.com
Until now: For 2012, a collection of seemingly small improvements make the redesigned Bentley Continental GT the car I always thought it could be.
Though several Continental body styles and versions are already available as 2012 models, only the regular GT Coupe reviewed here has been fully redesigned (it skipped the 2011 model year). The GTC convertible is on hold for 2012 but is likely to return for 2013. Still available with some upgrades are the Supersports, in coupe and convertible body styles, and the four-door Flying Spur.
Though ultra-lux buyers aren't as concerned as most of us about gas prices, they're sure to appreciate the Continental's EPA-estimated mileage improvement: 12/19 mpg city/highway on premium gas over the 2010 model's 10/17 mpg. With this, the gas-guzzler tax has decreased by $700, to $3,000. The standard W-12 flex-fuel engine can run on E85, which is 85 percent ethyl alcohol and 15 percent gasoline. On this fuel, however, mileage drops to 8/14 mpg.
Bentley says a higher-mileage V-8 engine option will come later in 2011.
Exterior and styling
The deftly restyled GT is like a Hollywood star who's received the best kind of plastic surgery: Many people don't notice anything has been done, but it sure looks great. The most significant change comes from more creases and body lines, stronger haunches and a more squared-off rear end. In short, it now looks less like the world's fastest bar of soap. Where previous model years drew attention for their uniqueness and obviously high price tag, virtually all comments I received during my time with the 2012 were raves about the styling itself.
My one styling complaint is an old one: The chrome grille, which is larger than ever, looks cheap. Most grilles are plastic, but they needn't look that way. I've said the same in the past -- mainly about Jaguars and prior Bentleys -- and it hasn't improved from either brand. Grilles ain't sheet metal; they can be changed relatively easily. I hope this one will be.
US Auto Enterprises is an organization of informants that will handle all your needs, through dealerships to the transportation. We can have your brand new car deliver directly to your door! We have a wide variety of automobiles to choose from, we can save you thousands on the car of your dream. Let US Auto Enterprises uncover all of the hidden dealer cash, with absolutely no hassle. Call 1-888-705-6787 or 1-561-577-8386
US Auto Enterprises
1-888-705-6787
www.usautoenterprises.com
sales@usautoenterprises.com
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