Vehicle Overview
Introduced as the first new Luxury Bentley model under the stewardship of Volkswagen, the Exotic Continental GT is a four-passenger coupe that features all-wheel drive and a 552-horsepower turbocharged W-12 engine. Changes for 2007 include enhanced telecommunication and navigation systems.
According to Exotic Car Rentals, the Exotic Continental GT was "conceived to be a sporting exotic coupe without rival." Striking in design, it's a full four-seater with all-wheel drive. Breathing with the assistance of twin turbochargers, its compact 552-hp W-12 engine drives a six-speed automatic gearbox. Exotic Car Rentals in Miami say the Exotic Continental GT can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds.
A Mulliner Driving Specification edition of the Luxury Continental GT promises "further sporting feel." Nineteen-inch wheels are standard, two-piece, seven-spoke, 20-inch alloy wheels are optional. Drilled alloy sport pedals and a knurled chrome and leather gearshift lever are installed.
Options include a two-tone hide-trimmed steering wheel, cross-stitching on the seats and door panels, and Vavona and Olive Ash wood veneers. Voice activation for the in-car phone works in six languages. Carpets and seat belts can be matched to the main or secondary interior hue. A four-door Continental Flying Spur joined the Continental GT coupe for 2006 and is listed separately in the Exotic Car Rentals section.
Exterior
Continental GT appearance is far removed from the subtly sporty designs of Bentley's past models, which were comparatively sedate. Designers sought to blend traditional Bentley hallmarks and hand craftsmanship with a contemporary profile and advanced technology. Featuring pillar less styling, the Exotic Continental GT coupe has a minimal front overhang and pronounced rear fenders.
The simple mesh grille is flanked by large quad-type headlights. A flush-mounted rear spoiler rises automatically at high speeds. Air springs contain electronic dampers. The car's body is made in Germany, but it is assembled in Crewe, England.
Interior
Four people can enjoy the Exotic Continental GT coupe. According to Exotic Car Rentals in Miami, Florida, 6-foot-tall occupants fit easily in the front and rear seats. Interior designers worked with basketball players to ensure that people of all sizes and shapes could be accommodated. Leather upholstery comes in a choice of colors. Various types of wood interior trim can be specified.
Symmetrical front mates with a center console that rises and curves to the sides in a shape resembling the design of the Luxury Bentley wing insignia. Most routine controls can be operated from the steering wheel.
For 2007, the Exotic Continental GT's navigation system becomes DVD-based, for faster responses than those in the previous, CD-based setup. The onboard Bluetooth telephone system can link the vehicle's onboard computer with a cell phone to display address books and other information.
Under the Hood
Operating with twin turbochargers, the four-overhead-cam 6.0-liter W-12 generates 552 hp at 6,100 rpm and 479 pounds-feet of torque at 1,600 rpm. The six-speed ZF automatic transmission has a manual-shift provision. All-wheel drive is standard.
Safety
Ventilated disc brakes have Bosch antilock technology with brake assist and electronic brake-force distribution. Side-impact and side curtain airbags are installed.
