Bentley Adds V-8 Convertible to Stable

Bentley broadens the Continental lineup with a new V-8-equipped convertible set to bow Tuesday at the Geneva auto show.

The Continental GTC joins the V-8 GT coupe in Bentley showrooms, both featuring the auto maker’s new variable-displacement 4.0L engine that delivers 500 hp and 487 lb.-ft. (660 Nm) of torque.

Combined with a new 8-speed automatic, the V-8 can take the ragtop 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 4.7 seconds and deliver a top speed of 187 mph (301 km/h).

Fuel economy in the convertible is rated at 25.9 mpg (10.9 L/100 km) combined city/highway in the European drive cycle, about 1 mpg (0.4 km/L) less than the GT coupe. Both the coupe and convertible feature all-wheel drive with a 40/60 front/rear power split.

The GTC V-8 model will be positioned below the 6.0L 12-cyl. GTC flagship, which went on sale in December.

The V-8 convertible follows the styling cues of the coupe, with black-gloss matrix grille, chromed “figure-eight” exhaust tailpipes and special red-enamel badging.

Bentley says it is off to a strong start this year, with sales increasing 47% to 894 units through February, including a 66% jump to 324 vehicles in China and 29% gain in the U.S. to 251 cars. Last year, deliveries rose 37% to 7,003 units.