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2014 Bentley Continental GT V8 S Preview

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Guillaume Rivard
Pros: Available as a coupe or convertible, the all-new 2014 Bentley Continental GT V8 S combines power, speed, technology, and craftsmanship in extreme amounts. More affordable than the V12-powered Continental GT, it still features some of the world's finest materials and embodies all of the British luxury brand's heritage in a stately and exotic package. Simply jaw-dropping.

Cons: This car's expensive, even by luxury standards. Its sheer size requires care when driving in tight spots. At the same time, rear-seat access and room is somewhat limited.

Bentley Continental GT V8 S
Photo: Bentley

2014 Bentley Continental GT V8 S Price: Detailed pricing is unavailable. Contact your local dealer.

2014 Bentley Continental GT V8 S Fuel Economy: The official Canadian ratings for the Continental GT V8 S have yet to be announced, but they should closely mirror those of the standard GT V8, which burns 13.7L/100km in the city and 8.3L/100km on the highway. Variable displacement, in which four of the eight cylinders switch off at gentler throttle openings, reduces fuel consumption.

Improvements and Changes: Compared to the base model, the S variant adds a little more urgency to the driving experience, increasing output by 21 horsepower and torque by 15 lb-ft, while shaving 0.3 second off the 0-100km/h time. The Beluga lower body styling and new-design 20” wheels are a clear statement of intent. A re-calibrated engine, revised stability control, and an uprated chassis complete the picture. Oh, and a new signature exterior colour expands the near-infinite palette: Monaco Yellow.

2014 Bentley Continental GT V8 S Powertrain: The 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine unleashes 521 snorting ponies and 502 lb-ft of torque through an 8-speed automatic transmission, which translates into a top speed of 309 km/h and a 0-100km/h dash in 4.5 seconds. As with all Continental models, the state-of-the-art all-wheel drive system employs an advanced Torsen differential and a 40/60 rear-biased torque split.

Don't miss: A 10mm lowered sports suspension, revised damping with increased spring and bush rates (front and rear), and uprated anti-roll bars all combine to improve agility, body control, and cornering. The revised steering provides enhanced feedback and feel. The suspension is also tuned differently to optimize performance on either body style.

Safety: The 2014 Bentley Continental GT V8 S comes standard with a full suite of airbags and electronic nannies including front, side, and curtain airbags, as well as anti-lock brakes, traction and stability control. Convertibles are fitted with automatic pop-up roll bars for added rollover protection.

Comparing the 2014 Bentley Continental GT V8 S:
Rivals include the Aston Martin DB9, Porsche 911 Turbo S, Audi R8 5.2, Jaguar XKR, BMW M6, and Ferrari 458.

Guillaume Rivard
Guillaume Rivard
Automotive expert
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