On Again, Off Again: Winterkorn suggests Bentley diesel
Bentleys are known, among other things, for their train-like torque delivery. But while Bentley has toyed with the idea of an oil-burning engine for its big saloons, the idea was ultimately rejected by the luxury automaker due to low market interest. However, Martin Winterkorn, CEO of Bentley's parent Volkswagen Group, has now suggested that diesel engines could make it under the Flying B bonnet after all.
Although previous reports placed one of the group's big V10 or V12 turbodiesels in a potential Bentley model, Winterkorn suggests something decidedly more compact. Namely, a twin-turbo version of the company's 3.0-liter TDI V6, currently under development for sister-company Audi's range-topping new A8. That may be a far cry from the Jurassic-era 6.75-liter V8 pictured above and currently found in the Arnage/Azure/Brooklands or the twin-turbo W12 in the Continental range, but Winterkorn appears more eager to lead the market than follow it.
[Source: AutoCar via AutoblogGreen]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
casey 9:11AM (11/24/2008)
i think the V6 Diesel is a fantastic idea for the rarified class of the Bentley IF they can provide a hybrid assist somewhere in the drivetrain. i think being able to add a Hybrid badge, no matter how mild the assist is, would send a clear message to the other high-end makers, that the future IS here. i think Bentley could solidify their position even more than it is already.
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Kotse 12:13PM (11/24/2008)
Bentley Diesel
Pass the...Green Poupon?!
Alex 9:14AM (11/24/2008)
In my opinion a 6 cylinder, regardless of power, would be a letdown in a Bentley. It’s like dating a beautiful woman with amazing boobs; only to find out she wears the wonderbra. Sure, she is still gorgeous and likely still has nice boobies, but you feel a little cheated, a little misled.
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casey 9:31AM (11/24/2008)
nah. i think it would be more like finding out she Phi Beta Kappa, had a PhD and could outsmart every competitor in your career for you.
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MikeW 10:27AM (11/24/2008)
Even the plebeian Bentely should still have a diesel V8 in place of the W12.
V6s are not for Bentely.
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zamafir 10:27AM (11/24/2008)
Screw the V6, just put the V12 TDI in, sure it's no more powerful than the current 6 and 3/4 they're using but it may get better MPG and have lower emissions.
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