Bowing officially at the Geneva Motor Show on on March 3, the 2016 Bentley Continental GT receives a host of cosmetic and performance upgrades for the new model year. Changes to performance, efficiency and luxury round out the improvements to Bentley’s best-selling vehicle.
On the outside, the 2016 Bentley Continental GT features a new front bumper which, combined with a smaller radiator shell and new, more pronounced fenders lends a more aggressive look. The fenders house a new vent, complete with a metallic “B” adornment, which serves to emphasize the Bentley “power line” which flows rearward from the front arches. Additionally, chrome fender badges for the V8 S and W12 models now match those applied to the GT Speed.
At the rear, the trunk profile is more sculpted, the rear bumper has been reshaped and widened, and a new rear diffuser design has been integrated to differentiate the performance-focused members of the Continental family. A new family of 20- and 21-inch wheel choices round out the cosmetic changes.
Changes in the cabin are left mostly to updated upholstery and trim offerings. Technology changes include the integration of available onboard WiFi, and a hidden storage compartment fitted between the rear seats, capable of holding and charging electronic devices including iPads. The driver’s instrument panel receives new dials and graphics, and the interior is now illuminated by LEDs.
Under the hood, the 2016 Bentley Continental GT W12’s 6.0L twin-turbocharged mill receives a bump to 582 HP and 531 lb-ft, up from 567 HP and 516 lb-ft last year. The upgrade in power showcases an upgrade in fuel economy as well – up to 5%. The GT W12 now includes a variable displacement system, able to run at part throttle on six of its 12 cylinders. The system is said to maintain refinement while offering lower CO2 emissions of 329 g/km and combined fuel economy of 20 MPG.
Wolfgang Dürheimer, chairman and CEO of Bentley Motors, comments: “Bentley offers uncompromised luxury and performance with ultimate comfort for grand touring and our new 2015 features extend the appeal of our family. We listen carefully to our customers, and with these new evolutions we’re making our cars even more stylish, efficient, connected and useable every day.”
Check out this TFLcar 0-60 MPH review of the 2014 Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible:
