We can dream, can’t we? All of us who appreciate fine automotive design will fall head over heels in love with the Bentley Batur. Sadly, there’s a catch: Yes, the bespoke Batur signifies the start of a design revolution at Bentley but this new two-door grand touring coupé will be limited to just 18 series examples and also yes, they are already sold. It’s the latest project by Bentley’s in-house bespoke and coach-building division, Mulliner, and it is exquisite. This design, inevitably, will ultimately guide the design of Bentley’s future range of battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
For now though the fortunate owners will have to make do a 730bhp (740 PS) version of a hand-assembled 6.0 litre twin-turbocharged W12 engine. This is the most powerful Bentley yet. This engine is a celebration of extraordinary power, torque and refinement, but, alas, it is likely to be the end of the oil-based era for Bentley. This is the final evolution of a wonderful power-plant.
On The Outside
The engine performance will be matched to the most advanced Bentley chassis ever, with speed-tuned air suspension, electric active anti-roll control, electronic limited slip differential, four-wheel steering and torque vectoring, so we can expect the handling to match the looks.
At the front of the car the grille is lower and more dominant, flanked by a new headlamp shape that is matched by the rear lights. Beloved of real car designers, the long bonnet (hood) blends into the body for a long lean, almost crouching overall look. See for yourself in the images.
On The Inside
The Bentley Batur is a two-seat coupé with an interior that is very much like the more available and more affordable Bentley Continental. A weekend away anyone? The supremely comfortable seats are heated, ventilated and have a massage facility. Behind the front seats there is just a shelf and it is possible to purchase a fitted set of luggage to go there. In fact, it is entirely possible to spend tens of thousands of UK Pounds customising this car, such are the many options. The remaining space at the rear is a boot (trunk) space with a limited amount of storage; this car is all about the road. The interior features a set of multimedia screens and it is possible to add Bentley’s ‘NAIM’ Audio optional stereo system; probably the best car audio in the world, so they say. As might be expected, the materials are variously made with sustainable leathers, carbon fibre and re-woven fabrics, even to the point of materials made from left-over husks from coffee production. It truly is amazing what can be achieved with recycling these days and, more to the point, it works.
Just as in other Bentleys, all of the buttons and knobs are a tactile pleasure to operate while the touchscreen spins around at the touch of a button to reveal physical gauges, if that appeals. A little touch of analogue goes a long way these days.
On The Road
Few have driven this big beast: Those that have report that the fun starts at start-up with a glorious (and soon to be lost to us) growl from that W12 engine. The best way to put the driving experience we learn, is to imagine what a Continental GT is like on the road, only more so; the ultimate in grand tour motoring, in short.
Early testers say that the feel of this car on the road is substantial with quick, precise steering that isn't completely numb or insulated, like so many cars today. Driving this car around both tight mountain roads and through sweeping highway bends is a driver’s dream; or so we’re told.
Meanwhile….
Back in the real world we can wake up from the dream in the knowledge that the Batur is a rarity, a bespoke car already spoken for before it even left the drawing board. Yet it is possible nonetheless to at least get a taste of what driving this car would be like by considering the Bentley Continental GT (On which the Batur is based; reviewed here) as your roadster of choice or the mighty Bentayga for that practical SUV experience. These are cars that are available to buy now and export from the UK to global destinations like Kenya, New Zealand and the Caribbean, VAT free. Contact us here at MHH International to find out about our comprehensive export service.
