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Bentley Continental S models go hybrid

Plug-in hybrid tech means Bentley’s latest Continental S can outpace all predecessors

3 Feb 2026

BENTLEY has leveraged tech and engineering from its stonking Continental Supersports and GT Speed models to create plug-in hybrid-powered S variants of the two-door Continental GT coupe and GTC convertible. 
 
Specs alone pitch the new Grand Touring S models at “performance focused” drivers, and will no doubt deliver strong sporting performance with a focused drive feel. 
 
Pricing is not yet announced but the previous versions were priced at $517,800 before on-road costs (coupe) and $568,400 (convertible). 
 
With electric assistance, the twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8, lifted from the Continental GT Speed, is amplified to a whopping 500kW/930Nm combined output, sufficient to propel the weighty coupe and convertible S models from 0-100km/h in a scant 3.5 seconds. 
 
It makes the newcomers the most powerful Continental GT S models ever, upping output by about 95kW and 160Nm compared with their predecessors while enabling a v-max of 306km/h. 
 
For comparison, the Speed versions wield a 575kW/1000Nm stick for 0-100km/h in a claimed 3.2s on the way to a 335km/h top speed in return for $581,900 + ORC (coupe) and $639,800 (convertible). 
 
The newcomer’s intimidating looks are enhanced by a raunchy aural presence facilitated by the engine’s cross-plane V8 with 90 degree opposed crankshaft pins. 
 
It is a configuration favoured in US muscle cars to produce a distinctive rumbling exhaust soundtrack and smooth, relatively low-rev operation rather than the high-pitched scream of a flat-plane V8. 
 
 
However, the tailpipes can fall silent for up to 80km, says Bentley, when using the plug-in hybrid system’s electric-only mode. 
 
Bentley describes the new PHEV powertrain as “a marvel of advanced powertrain engineering” that “even outperforms the previous generation’s W12 Speed powertrain on all power, torque and performance parameters”. 
  
Controlling all this power and torque, both S models inherit ‘Performance Active Chassis’ tech from the GT Speed for enhanced drive feel and agility. 
 
The suite includes twin valve dampers, torque vectoring (front to rear and across the axles), 48V active anti-roll system, a new generation of stability control software and, for the first time on a Continental GT S, an electronic limited slip differential and all-wheel steering.  
 
It is said to be Bentley’s most advanced and driver-focused AWD chassis setup, designed to deliver maximum sporting appeal and ability and allows the driver to “access an even greater breadth of driving modes and road or track behaviours”. 
 
Bentley says that with the car’s advanced stability system fully engaged, traction is controlled to inhibit oversteer. 
 
“In Dynamic Mode, the car allows a level of rear axle slip, allowing the driver to control the cornering attitude of the car while maintaining confidence to bring the car back in-line if required.” 
 
The system can also be completely turned off, at which point the cornering stance can be balanced on-throttle by the driver for a “truly exhilarating driving experience”.  
 
Defining both S body styles is what Bentley calls “Blackline Specification”, highlighted by ‘Precision Design’ headlights and 22-inch 10-spoke wheels while the interiors feature a “unique” colour split with Dinamica inserts and piano black veneer as standard. 
 
Other Blackline Specification kit includes a dark front lower spoiler with gloss black matrix grilles, black Bentley wings and Bentley lettering, Beluga Black mirror caps, sill extensions and a rear diffuser. 
 
The front is picked out by dark tint, full LED matrix headlights featuring Bentley’s ‘Precision Design’ detail – a feature shared only with the GT Speed. 
 
At the rear, the S specification includes dark tint taillights and tailpipe finishers for the sports exhaust.  
 
The 22-inch 10 swept-spoke alloy wheels come as standard in silver but the S models are available with a choice of wheel options, including a 10 swept-spoke alloy wheel in gloss black with bright machined facing surfaces, and a full gloss black version.  
 
Inside, the two-colour upholstery split is specific to these models and combines a fluted seat design.  
 
Tactile, suede-like Dinamica technical fabric is used on key touch points including the steering wheel, gear lever, seats and door inserts.  
 
Standard piano black veneer echoes the design theme of the exterior’s Blackline specification, with high-gloss carbon-fibre and other finishes offered as an option.  
 
Other options include full leather upholstery and dark tint chrome specification for all interior metal brightwork.

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