The car you see featured here is strictly limited to just sixteen examples, so you might ask why it is featured. Well, the Bentley Batur Convertible is interesting in its own right but more to the point, it highlights the fact that in the bland world we live in today, there is still room for automotive brilliance and in any case, there is more than one Bentley in the brand’s catalogue.
The Batur may be a rare jewel but, as mentioned, Bentley do manufacture other models that exude that special character only obtained from prestige British built vehicles. These luxury cars are more readily available to buy and be exported from the UK to global destinations like Kenya, New Zealand, Ireland and the Caribbean via the comprehensive VAT-free service provided by MHH International, who welcome your enquiry. Now, back to this superb model:
The Batur Convertible
An evolution of Bentley’s DNA, this car captures the essence of open-air Grand Touring in a progressive design born from the Batur coupé we featured last September here.
As is well known, Bentley Motors have a rich history of open-cockpit cars, from the very first model of 1919, through the company’s foundation years in the 1920s, right up to date. The architecture of the Batur Convertible has allowed the designers to seize the opportunity to create a theme that blends together the design of a coupé but includes the usability of a convertible. The two-seater character offers a cosseting ‘wraparound’ cockpit that also features a dramatic ‘airbridge’ behind the seats and tapered cowls at the rear, harking back to the ‘barchetta’ sports cars of old, whilst underlining the promise of a dynamic, driver-focused adventure in a cocooned environment. The ‘airbridge’ and tapered cowls are not only aesthetic, but also provide a semi-enclosed luggage compartment behind the two front seats; ideal for a weekend away.
The convertible roof has an aesthetic of beauty as a modern, tactile alternative to a hardtop roof. A combination of insulation material, sealing system refinements and acoustic treatments create an enclosed environment in a system which can be deployed or stowed in just nineteen seconds, with the car travelling at speeds of up to 30 mph (50 km/h), transforming the car from a luxurious coupé into an open-top Grand Tourer at the touch of a button.
The Looks
See for yourself in our images: The front of the car features a grille of exceptional art with the main matrix finished in Gloss Dark Titanium, accented with contrast chevrons in a horizontal ‘ombré’ pattern that flows from the centre and lighten to the vibrant sides in Vermillion Gloss. The ‘endless bonnet’ line is finished in Gloss Dark Titanium paint, as are the 22 inch wheels. There are endless options for these cars and even the regular models from this premium brand often have individual distinctions and opulent detailing that make each and every car special.
The Power
Here we introduce a rather sad note: This will be one of the last models to feature the truly magnificent and iconic six litre, 750PS W12 engine. This is the power-train that the Batur Convertible shares with its coupé counterpart. For the technically minded, the engine features a revised intake system, upgraded turbochargers, new intercoolers and extensive recalibration that enables 740bhp (750PS) and a mighty 1,000Nm of torque, all assembled to deliver exceptional performance and pulling power for this pinnacle grand tourer.
This development of the engine celebrates its achievements over twenty years, over which time it has been developed to produce nearly 40% more power while fuel economy has improved by 25%. The W12 is paired with Bentley’s eight-speed double-clutch transmission, and a sports exhaust to provide a soundtrack in keeping with the level of performance. The entire exhaust system is built in titanium.
What Is It Like To Drive A Bentley?
Whatever the power source; the W12 or the V8, the drive and ride of a Bentley car is nothing short of sensational. Space for driver and passengers is of course exceptional with legroom for all. The interior build quality is second to none and, importantly, built to last.
For the driver though it is the behind the wheel experience that counts. It is outstanding for such a massive car, with accurate and well weighted steering and a firm handle on body roll helped further by the active anti-roll system. Push the foot firmly to the floor and the W12 engine will astonish you; the V8 is no slouch either.
There are no rules that state that a prestige car like a Bentley could not be your daily driver. Consider the desirable Bentayga, the brand’s first foray into the SUV world, the Continental GT or the Flying Spur for example. Contact MHH international for details of Bentley availability.
