Bentley Continental

Bentley Continental

Now in its third generation, the Bentley Continental, either in coupé or convertible form, is probably the ultimate in luxury grand touring. Purchased as a new or pre-owned car, the Continental makes a statement on the road that few other cars can match.

The Exterior

The design shows the intent. The elegant bodywork with its hand-finished paint combines with the sculpted exterior styling. The latest model is based on a modern platform shared with the Porsche Panamera. This means it is lighter than previously.

The traditional styling of a long bonnet and a short front overhang make for an ideal grand tourer; the sweeping power line down the side culminates at the muscular rear wheel arches and down to the striking wheels below.

Different versions of the car are available. For example, the Continental GT Speed has bold forged 22” Speed wheels and a dark tint Grille. The prestigious Mulliner specification gets as standard extra touches such as sports pedals and unique ‘Jewel’ fuel and oil filler caps, so with optional items like 22” wheels and diamond grilles there’s plenty of scope to personalise this fine car, demonstrating that no opportunity has been missed to create an exquisite and unique style.

The Interior

Extraordinary is perhaps the best word to describe the interior of the Bentley Continental, whichever model is selected. This prestigious bespoke car maker uses only the finest materials to create automotive luxury. An uninterrupted flow of wood surrounds driver and passengers, as it radiates out from the central fascia; that’s the tradition, but for a modern look this can be replaced on new models with a contemporary technical finish.

The sumptuous seats, handcrafted with Fine Nappa leather as a matter of course, are as comfortable as they are elegant, with the generous cabin providing a spacious environment in both front and rear. It’s not just about fashion though; this car is practical too with a sizeable boot that can easily fit luggage for that long weekend away.

Personalising touches are plentiful, like the brushed silver Breitling ‘for Mulliner’ clock. The GT Mulliner Convertible version can even have exclusive tonneau cover quilting. That’s the beauty of a bespoke service. That said of course the Bentley Continental makes a fine pre-owned buy as it will come with an enviable record of servicing.

Drivers of different shapes and sizes can get comfortable thanks to a wide range of electrical adjustment. No hand-operated seat levers here. Passengers sit cocooned inside the spacious interior while the driver interfaces with a responsive 12.3” touchscreen that has well-ordered menus, controlling most functions. It is a big car so when purchasing new it pays to specify the ‘City’ safety pack, which includes a top-view camera, a pedestrian warning function and a reversing traffic warning system designed to stop the driver from backing into cars approaching from the side. Technology meeting tradition.

Driving The Bentley Continental

There’s a couple of engines to choose from: A 6.0 litre W12 engine developing 626bhp (635PS), both driving all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic gearbox. It is clearly massively and effortlessly fast, but the real benefit is how relaxing rather than exciting the drive is. The alternative is the slightly less powerful but no less quick V8 that takes just 3.9 seconds to reach 62mph (100kph). Unlike the W12, this engine bellows under load as befits a V8, so it comes down to a personal choice.

On the road this big modern take on a traditional British brand amazes with real precision and driving engagement. Select Sport mode and immediately driver feedback is clear, the steering is precise, and the shifts from the automatic gearbox are fast. Forget stately, this is a thrilling car, the best prestige sports car money can buy.

But Is It Reliable?

Yes. It’s a Bentley and it is tried and tested at the highest level. Used and new Bentley Continental models are available to import from the UK to Kenya, New Zealand and other global destinations. Get in touch with MHH International to find out more about the service we offer.