Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Bentley unveils 202-mph Continental GT Speed Convertible]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/01/bentley-unveils-202-mph-continental-gt-speed-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/01/bentley-unveils-202-mph-continental-gt-speed-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/01/bentley-unveils-202-mph-continental-gt-speed-convertible/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible - front three-quarter view, purple

That purple haze all in your eyes is the 2013 Bentley GT Speed Convertible. The cynical view is, "Bah, take a GT Speed and cut the top off. There. Pass the salt, please...". But when you're Bentley, more than 90 years old, and charging these kinds of ducats, there's no reason to take the cynic's shortcut. So of course the GT Speed Convertible gets all of the Speed-family accoutrements: matrix radiator grille hiding a twin-turbocharged, 6.0-liter W12 with 616 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque, eight-speed ZF transmission enabling 15 percent better fuel economy, beefier lowered suspension, larger rifled exhaust tips, inlet manifold finished in black crackle and a Mulliner Driving Specification cabin.

Among the many refinements added to the convertible, though, are neck warmers in the seats, the 21-inch wheels unique to this car, class-leading stiffness - admittedly, it's a very small class, but its torsional rigidity of 22,500 Nm/degree is only 500 Nm below that of the Lamborghini Gallardo coupe. The stiffening required to achieve that number will undoubtedly have something to do with the 485-pound weight gain over the GT Speed Coupe.

Still, when the GT Speed Convertible weighs 5,500 pounds, what's a few hundred between friends? More importantly, the weight doesn't scuttle performance: 0-60 comes in 4.1 seconds, a tenth shy of the coupe. The gap stretches as you approach The Ton, the GT Speed Convertible needing just 9.7 seconds to get there, the coupe just nine seconds. Trust us, though, everyone will be too busy blasting along to notice. Everyone will want to pack light, however, because the Speed Convertible loses 3.5 cubic feet of trunk space. It remains the fastest four-seat convertible in the world with a 202-mph top speed.

We'll see it live when it debuts for the world at the Detroit Auto Show. Look up and there's a high-res photo gallery, look down and there's a press release to get you prepared.

Continue reading Bentley unveils 202-mph Continental GT Speed Convertible

Bentley unveils 202-mph Continental GT Speed Convertible originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Jan 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bentley continental gt speed convertiblebentleycontinental gtdetroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showgt speed convertiblegtcgtc speedw12Tue, 01 Jan 2013 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20402874/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/01/bentley-unveils-202-mph-continental-gt-speed-convertible/20402874/article-detail.xml 20402874 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/bentleygtcspeed13_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/bentleygtcspeed13.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Bentley Continental GT V8]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/2013-bentley-continental-gt-v8-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/2013-bentley-continental-gt-v8-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/2013-bentley-continental-gt-v8-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Entry Entry-Level Bentley



I have a friend who once told me that he would never buy the cheapest version of anything. I pressed him about cars and figured he was backed into a corner when I mentioned Bentley. With only the Continental series of cars - GT coupe, GTC convertible, Flying Spur four-door - and Mulsanne sedan on offer, surely this friend of mine would go for something like the Continental GT coupe over the larger, much more expensive Mulsanne. While their base prices are separated by over $100,000, the Continental GT's starting price of $212,600 should still command enough respect from my friend's imaginary - and judgmental - group of country club acquaintances.

"No way, it's the entry-level Bentley."

Ouch, though on some level he's correct. Any automaker who offers more than one model technically has an entry-level option. The Continental GT coupe is that car for Bentley, the least expensive ticket that gains you access to the Flying B's party and all the pampering, personalization and performance that entails.

Well, friend, have I got a car that's not for you. The 2013 Bentley Continental GT V8 is the new entry entry-level Bentley that offers less of everything: less weight, lower emissions, fewer horsepower and a smaller price. Indeed, my friend might say that by subtracting four cylinders, Bentley is taking its Continental range downmarket to the point where aspirational millionaires can now rub elbows with self-made billionaires. Oh, the humanity.

Continue reading 2013 Bentley Continental GT V8

2013 Bentley Continental GT V8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bentley continental gt v8bentleycontinental gtcontinental gt v8featuredreviewreviewsv8Fri, 14 Dec 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20402747/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/14/2013-bentley-continental-gt-v8-review/20402747/article-detail.xml 20402747 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-bentley-continental-gt-v8---03-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-bentley-continental-gt-v8---03-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Bentley mulling own spec series for gentlemen racers?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/06/bentley-mulling-own-spec-series-for-gentlemen-racers/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/06/bentley-mulling-own-spec-series-for-gentlemen-racers/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/06/bentley-mulling-own-spec-series-for-gentlemen-racers/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,




We began to salivate when we saw the Bentley Continental GT3 up close and personal at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. The thought of a track-going Continental GT conjured up notions of the Bentley Boys, the original gentlemen racers, tearing down the Mulsanne straight. Well, according to AutoGuide, it appears our wistful ponderings will be realized in the form of an international spec racing series.

Similar to the Porsche Carrera Cup or the Ferrari Challenge, this will be a one-make series, and Bentley seeks to run races in Europe, North America and Asia. As for the latter, Bentley Board Member for Marketing Kevin Rose suggested that China will be the likely host of an Asian race. According to Rose, sportscar racing is of interest to Bentley's Chinese customers. He also says that there will be participation by dealers. "Our dealers are by definition car nuts," claims Rose.

While the Continental GT3 is being developed for pro-level use, Bentley is apparently working on a turn-key car for gentlemen racers. According to Rose, "We want to make it as easy as possible." While that doesn't sound like the devil-may-care Bentley Boys of yore, it's likely better to attract participation. The first trials are expected for 2013, and Bentley is even considering making vehicles available for privateer teams.

Bentley mulling own spec series for gentlemen racers? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Dec 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentleybentley boysbentley continental gt3continentalcontinental gtcontinental gt3kevin roseThu, 06 Dec 2012 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20394967/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/06/bentley-mulling-own-spec-series-for-gentlemen-racers/20394967/article-detail.xml 20394967 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/bentley-continental-gt3-paris-2012_thumbnail.jpeg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/bentley-continental-gt3-paris-2012.jpeg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #305 with Matt Edmonds of Tire Rack]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/23/autoblog-podcast-305-with-matt-edmonds-of-the-tire-rack/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/23/autoblog-podcast-305-with-matt-edmonds-of-the-tire-rack/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/23/autoblog-podcast-305-with-matt-edmonds-of-the-tire-rack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Matt Edmonds from Tire Rack, Opel Cascada, Nissan steer-by-wire autoblog podcast logo

Episode #305 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and David Kiley are joined by Matt Edmonds from Tire Rack, our title sponsor. There's plenty of in-depth discussion of tires and wheels, plus winter tires. We also touched on the Opel Cascada and its chances at becoming a Buick and Nissan's forthcoming steer-by-wire system. For those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #305:



Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:
2013 Lexus GS 450h
2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed
2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK350

Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman, David Kiley
Guests: Matt Edmonds - the Tire Rack


Runtime: 01:16:55

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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #305 with Matt Edmonds of Tire Rack

Autoblog Podcast #305 with Matt Edmonds of Tire Rack originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblog podcastcascadacontinental gtcontinental gt speedfeaturedglkgsgs450hmatt edmondsnissansteer by wiretire rackTue, 23 Oct 2012 18:02:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #305Autoblog01:16:55 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20358145/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/23/autoblog-podcast-305-with-matt-edmonds-of-the-tire-rack/20358145/article-detail.xml 20358145 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/19/2013-bentley-continental-gt-speed-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/19/2013-bentley-continental-gt-speed-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/19/2013-bentley-continental-gt-speed-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Meeting Bentley's 205-MPH Prince On The Autobahn

2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed

I'm travelling at the approximate speed of privilege. With the aluminum accelerator of the 2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed buried to its neck in the high-pile carpet of the floorboard, the 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 underhood is at full boast. The 616 furious British horses pumping under that long, proud prow set the German countryside to frappé with breathless ease, and with the sprawling sheetmetal of the coupe settled comfortably onto its haunches in eager anticipation of ever more thrust, it's clear this machine is content to consume endless kilometers of Autobahn in wide-mouthed gulps. There's an open lane of unrestricted tarmac unraveling before me, and I'm keen to oblige every thread of temptation singing in my chest. The speedometer has just clicked past 165 mph.

At this clip, the new crown jewel of the Bentley war chest is covering land at the rate of nearly one football field per second. The white lines on the road are beginning to fade into a solid stream, and I'm suddenly aware of the increasingly rapid heartbeat whispering the truth of my mortality in my ears. There's no looking anywhere other than as far to the horizon as possible, but even with my eyes set to long-range scan, it's clear that if something goes wrong at this velocity, they'll be burying an empty box in the hills of Tennessee. That little bit of trivia makes it all the more disconcerting when an ambling Volkswagen Jetta strays into my lane for no other reason than to take in the glorious sight of me manufacturing a stack of bricks in the quilted-leather driver's seat of someone else's $228,600 supercar.

Continue reading 2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed

2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bentley continental gt speed2013 continental gt speedbentleybentley continental gt speedcontinentalcontinental gtcontinental gt speedfirst driveFirstDrivegt speedpicturesreviewFri, 19 Oct 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20354636/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/19/2013-bentley-continental-gt-speed-first-drive-review/20354636/article-detail.xml 20354636 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2013-bentley-continental-gt-speed-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2013-bentley-continental-gt-speed-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Bentley unveils Continental GT3 racer [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/26/bentley-unveils-continental-gt3-racer/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/26/bentley-unveils-continental-gt3-racer/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/26/bentley-unveils-continental-gt3-racer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Bentley Continental GT3

Ten years after unveiling the concept car that ultimately became the Bentley Continental GT, the iconic British company is back at the Paris Motor Show, with another high-performance "concept" car. The newest member of the Bentley family, this Continental GT3 is a concept in name only, as the company is explicit about the fact that its debut marks a return to motorsports for the brand.

The last time we saw the flying B on a racecar, it was when Bentley was claiming honors at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2003. The GT3 seeks to take up that mantle, as well as the storied history of road-going Bentleys being transformed into competent racing machines.

Though technical details are nonexistent in the Bentley press release, the company has given us something to work with, in terms of the racecar that will ultimately result from this program. The GT3 will, naturally, build on the very strong performance of the Continental GT Speed, adding a rear-drive chassis, a massive aero package (the wing seen here in no joke) and "state-of-the-art motorsport hardware."

Bentley's return to the track isn't so far off, either. The company claims that the FIA supported racer will be in the pits by the end of 2013; capable of competing in multiple series and events, including endurance racing. If the final product doesn't end up at Le Mans, we'll eat our hat.

Pictures of this Bentley beast not enough for you? Well, follow this link for a Continental GT3 video, you speed freak.

Continue reading Bentley unveils Continental GT3 racer [w/video]

Bentley unveils Continental GT3 racer [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Sep 2012 17:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentleycontinentalcontinental gtcontinental gt3gt3parisparis 2012paris motor showWed, 26 Sep 2012 17:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20331877/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/26/bentley-unveils-continental-gt3-racer/20331877/article-detail.xml 20331877 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/001-bentley-continental-gt3-racer628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/001-bentley-continental-gt3-racer628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Bentley releases full specs, new images of Continental GT Speed [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/22/bentley-releases-full-specs-new-images-of-continental-gt-speed/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/22/bentley-releases-full-specs-new-images-of-continental-gt-speed/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/22/bentley-releases-full-specs-new-images-of-continental-gt-speed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed - front three-quarter studio view, blue

First we found out about it, then we saw it at Pebble Beach, and now we've got the full skinny on the 2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed. There's more to the crown prince king of the Continental GT range than its 616 horsepower, 590 pound-feed, eight-speed transmission, 205-mph top speed and four-second run from zero to 60.

The W12 engine has been fitted with an energy recuperation system that optimizes the use of the electrical system and alternator - during deceleration, for instance, energy is stored for use later. It's a feature that has spread to all members of the GT line along with the eight-speed transmission, and combined with new engine management software, the result is an improvement of up to 12 percent in fuel economy for all but the GTC droptop, which improves by 10 percent. The hardtop GT line now returns a combined 19.5 mpg, the convertible gets a combined 19 mpg even.

It's not all about conservation, though: when you want to get on it, the eight-speed can "block shift" four gears, going instantly from eighth to fourth for quicker giddyup. Making the most of that speed is the revised steering and reworked suspension with stiffer springs, anti-roll bars and bushings, guided by new software. The exhaust is an evolution of that used on the Continental Supersports Ice Speed Record car, producing a deeper sound under acceleration. Bringing the proceedings to a stop are huge iron discs with eight-piston calipers, or even huger carbon discs said to last for the life of the car.

To know more, have a read of the press release below, or enjoy the deep blue details in the high-res photo gallery.

Continue reading Bentley releases full specs, new images of Continental GT Speed [w/video]

Bentley releases full specs, new images of Continental GT Speed [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Aug 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bentley continental gt speedbentleycontinental gtcontinental gt speedgt speedWed, 22 Aug 2012 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20306365/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/22/bentley-releases-full-specs-new-images-of-continental-gt-speed/20306365/article-detail.xml 20306365 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/bentleygtspeed13_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/bentleygtspeed13.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed debuting at Goodwood with 616 HP and 205 MPH top speed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/20/bentley-bringing-616-hp-205-mph-2013-continental-gt-speed-to-go/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/20/bentley-bringing-616-hp-205-mph-2013-continental-gt-speed-to-go/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/20/bentley-bringing-616-hp-205-mph-2013-continental-gt-speed-to-go/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The rumors were true: Bentley will be debuting the car you see here, the 2013 Continental GT Speed, at this year's Goodwood Festival of Speed. And while it doesn't look all that different (if at all) from a standard Conti GT, the changes under the hood are what sets this big coupe apart from its kin. Take notice: With a top speed of 205 miles per hour, this is the fastest production car that Bentley has ever produced.

That outrageous top end comes courtesy of some extra grunt from the twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter W12 engine. Overall output has been increased by 49 horsepower and 74 pound-feet of torque, meaning there's a whopping 616 hp and 590 lb-ft on tap. A new close-ratio, eight-speed automatic transmission has been employed to manage all that power (which is still sent to all four wheels), and all in, the Continental GT Speed will sprint to 60 miles per hour in four seconds flat.

For the GT Speed, Bentley has modified the chassis and steering setups, and the car's overall ride height has been lowered. Furthermore, the faster Conti rides on unique 21-inch wheels wrapped in sticky 275/35R21 Pirelli PZero tires. Inside, Bentley offers the Mulliner Driving Specification as standard equipment as well as "a number of signature Speed design cues that combine contemporary luxury with a distinctly sporting character." Sounds nice.

Orders for the 2013 GT Speed are being taken as you read this, with the first cars being delivered in October this year. Scroll down for the official press release, and stay tuned for the car's official unveiling at Goodwood, where drivers Juha Kankunnen, Guy Smith and Derek Bell will drive a pre-production version up the infamous hill twice a day.

Continue reading 2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed debuting at Goodwood with 616 HP and 205 MPH top speed

2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed debuting at Goodwood with 616 HP and 205 MPH top speed originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jun 2012 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bentley continental gt speedbentleycontinental gtcontinental gt speedgoodwoodgoodwood festival of speedWed, 20 Jun 2012 07:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20258642/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/20/bentley-bringing-616-hp-205-mph-2013-continental-gt-speed-to-go/20258642/article-detail.xml 20258642 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/01-2013-bentley-continental-gt-speed628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/01-2013-bentley-continental-gt-speed628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Bentley Continental GT V8 hits 24 mpg highway]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/13/bentley-continental-gt-v8-hits-24-mpg-highway/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/13/bentley-continental-gt-v8-hits-24-mpg-highway/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/13/bentley-continental-gt-v8-hits-24-mpg-highway/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Bentley Continental GT V8

The Bentley Continental GT with the W12 is rated at 12 city/19 highway on traditional premium, 8 city/14 highway on E85, and easily less than that on an excited right foot. When we drove the Continental GT V8 at launch we were told that official EPA mileage could be rated as high was 24 mpg on the highway, and that, even with the right-foot factor, would be a generous improvement over the W12 for sacrificing just 67 horsepower and almost nothing in performance. It turns out Bentley told the truth, the official EPA numbers are 15 city/24 highway.

According to FuelEconomy.gov, the 12 combined mpg of the W12 is raised to 15 combined with the V8. Better yet, drivers will save $1,000 on premium unleaded every year, the V8 needing $3,400 worth of the explosive liquid, the W12 needing $4,300. On top of the fact that the V8 is roughly $18,000 less than the W12, with those annual savings you'll be able to add a couple more ties to your collection every year, or one bespoke shoe. Start with the right foot - that's where the action is.

Bentley Continental GT V8 hits 24 mpg highway originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 May 2012 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentleybentley continentalbentley continental gt v8continentalcontinental gtcontinental gt v8fuel economympgSun, 13 May 2012 18:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20236086/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/13/bentley-continental-gt-v8-hits-24-mpg-highway/20236086/article-detail.xml 20236086 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/bentleycontinentalv8mpg_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/bentleycontinentalv8mpg.jpg <![CDATA[The List #0567: Drive The PCH]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/20/the-list-0567-drive-the-pch/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/20/the-list-0567-drive-the-pch/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/20/the-list-0567-drive-the-pch/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Jessi Combs and Patrick McIntyre, hosts of The List driving a Bentley on PCH

In case you hadn't noticed, we're now actively using your suggestions for new episodes of The List. We started the series with a few of our own, but suggestions from viewers like you have been flooding our inbox since the first episode. Race in the 24 Hours of LeMons? That was your idea. Visit an automotive museum? Your idea. And so is today's episode: Drive the PCH.

California's Pacific Coast Highway is known as much for its amazing views as it is for the enjoyable cruising that can be had along its asphalt. It's the type of drive where the destination is less meaningful than the trip that got you there and people you met along the way. In this episode of The List, Jessi and Patrick are given the keys to a suitably ostentatious droptop and sent north from Los Angeles to discover what the PCH has in store for them.

While the PCH is arguably one of the best roads in the country for cruising, every state has a similar road that shows off their unique, natural beauty. What's the best cruising road in your state? Let us know in Comments so we can try it out the next time we're in the neighborhood.

Click here to watch The List #0567: Drive the PCH.
  • Have an RSS feed? Click here to add The List.
  • Have an idea for The List? Click here to tell us what would be on yours.
  • Click here to learn more about our hosts, Jessi and Patrick.

Continue reading The List #0567: Drive The PCH

The List #0567: Drive The PCH originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bentley continental gtcbentleycontinental gtcontinental gtcdrive the pchjessi combspacific coast highwaypatrick mcintyrepchthe-listvideoTue, 20 Mar 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20196486/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/20/the-list-0567-drive-the-pch/20196486/article-detail.xml 20196486 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/the-list-drive-the-pch_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/the-list-drive-the-pch.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Bentley Continental GT V8]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/2013-bentley-continental-gt-v8-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/2013-bentley-continental-gt-v8-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/2013-bentley-continental-gt-v8-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Red Badge Of Courage



When it comes to high-end automobiles, there exists a surprisingly large group of well-heeled buyers seemingly only too happy to plunk down the vast sums required to buy the most expensive model in a given range. To these shoppers, a loftier price connotes that they are buying the best of the best, all but guaranteeing that they'll never suffer the indignity of being shown up at the valet stand. And while the notion that what is best is what's the most expensive is often correct, that isn't always the case.

Take this splashy Dragon Red Bentley Continental GT V8, for example. On the surface, this new model is just a cut-price coupe with four fewer cylinders and less horsepower, but make no mistake - this is the Thinking Man's Continental, not the Miser's.

Of course, word that the British automaker's latest should cost around 10 percent less than its 12-cylinder counterpart is unlikely to arch any impeccably manicured brows - we're going to go ahead and assume that the price differential won't really be of consequence to anyone with the wherewithal to shop for a Bentley. As a result, it will likely take a bit of individuality and pluck to show up at this season's Keeping Up With The Jones' Charity Ball in a GT V8.

Continue reading 2013 Bentley Continental GT V8

2013 Bentley Continental GT V8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bentley continental gt v8bentleycontinentalcontinental gtcontinental gt v8featuredfirst driveFirstDrivegt v8Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20172005/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/15/2013-bentley-continental-gt-v8-first-drive-review/20172005/article-detail.xml 20172005 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/08-2013-bentley-continental-gt-v8-1329284998-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/08-2013-bentley-continental-gt-v8-1329284998-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Bentley soars over Munich with new Continental GT V8]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/bentley-soars-over-munich-with-new-continental-gt-v8/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/bentley-soars-over-munich-with-new-continental-gt-v8/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/bentley-soars-over-munich-with-new-continental-gt-v8/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Bentley Continental GT V8 airlift in Munich

You'd think that lobbing four cylinders off a car's engine would have an adverse effect on its performance, right? But Bentley is out to show that its new Continental GT with the V8 engine can fly every bit as much as the W-12 model. And by fly, we do mean fly.

Not only is the updated 2013 twelve-cylinder model 55 pounds lighter than the one it replaces, but the eight-cylinder model is lighter still. That helps the V8 achieve 40-percent better fuel economy, while still delivering 500 horsepower - 131 hp shy of the W12 - for a 4.6-second sprint to 60.

To drive the point home, Bentley airlifted its new Continental GT V8 over Munich - the hometown of its parent company's arch-rival BMW - and placed it on a rooftop for all to see. If you missed the publicity stunt while driving home from the beer hall, you can scope it out in the video and press release after the jump and the high-res image gallery above.

Continue reading Bentley soars over Munich with new Continental GT V8

Bentley soars over Munich with new Continental GT V8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bentley continental gt2012 bentley continental gt v82013 bentley continental gt2013 bentley continental gt v8airliftbentleycontinentalcontinental gthelicoptermunichpublicity stuntvideoMon, 13 Feb 2012 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20170079/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/13/bentley-soars-over-munich-with-new-continental-gt-v8/20170079/article-detail.xml 20170079 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/webbentley-munich_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/webbentley-munich.jpg <![CDATA[How to use Bentley's Continental GT like a lead sled dog]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/how-to-use-bentleys-continental-gt-like-a-lead-sled-dog/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/how-to-use-bentleys-continental-gt-like-a-lead-sled-dog/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/how-to-use-bentleys-continental-gt-like-a-lead-sled-dog/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

joring bentley

The Swiss know a thing or two about skiing. Our neutral friends go downhill, cross-country and even joring. Yeah, we've never heard of "joring" before either, but it apparently involves slapping on a pair of skis and getting towed around by a horse or dog.

That doesn't sound like all that much fun to us, but if you replace the four-legged hauler with a Bentley Continental GT, we're inclined to change our tune. The good folks at Auto Express headed out to a joring track in Rougemont, Switzerland to try their skill with a 570 horsepower, four-wheel drive Continental GT, and they have video to prove it.

Hit the jump to watch exotic joring at 40 miles per hour.

Continue reading How to use Bentley's Continental GT like a lead sled dog

How to use Bentley's Continental GT like a lead sled dog originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bentley continental gtauto skiingbentleycar skiingcontinental gtjoringskiskiingvideoFri, 27 Jan 2012 15:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20157003/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/27/how-to-use-bentleys-continental-gt-like-a-lead-sled-dog/20157003/article-detail.xml 20157003 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bentley-gt-joring_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bentley-gt-joring.jpg <![CDATA[Bentley Continental GT V8 brings the motor to Motor City]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/bentley-continental-gt-v8-detroit-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/bentley-continental-gt-v8-detroit-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/bentley-continental-gt-v8-detroit-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 Bentley Continental GT V8

Bentley has at last debuted its latest beast at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. The Continental GT V8 arrived in the Motor City boasting a new compact 4.0-liter, twin-turbocharged V8 under its hood. With 500 horsepower and 481 pound-feet of torque on tap, the ultra-luxury coupe offers buyers heaps of performance in an efficient package. Well, efficient by Bentley standards, anyway. The company says the Continental GT V8 has an effective range of 500 miles, which translates to roughly 21 mpg. That's not a Prius-besting figure by any stretch, but it's far from embarrassing given the globe-spinning amount of power on tap.

Much of that efficiency comes from the fact that the 4.0-liter V8 makes use of cylinder deactivation when the driver maintains speed or decelerates. The engine automatically drops to four-cylinder power in those situations, though the remaining cylinders pick up the instant the driver tips into the throttle.

Bentley says the Conti V8 can jump to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds on its way to a top speed of 188 mph thanks in part to its eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive system. The company also says the Continental GT V8 and the Continental GTC V8 will be sold right alongside the standard Continental GT models with their more potent W12 engine. Click past the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Bentley Continental GT V8 brings the motor to Motor City

Bentley Continental GT V8 brings the motor to Motor City originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentleybentley continental gt v8bentley continental gtc v8continentalcontinental gtcontinental gt v8continental gtc v8detroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showMon, 09 Jan 2012 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20143980/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/09/bentley-continental-gt-v8-detroit-2012/20143980/article-detail.xml 20143980 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bentley-continental-gt-v8-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bentley-continental-gt-v8-628.jpg <![CDATA[Bret Michaels selling family truckster and more at Barrett-Jackson]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/31/bret-michaels-selling-family-truckster-and-more-at-barrett-jacks/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/31/bret-michaels-selling-family-truckster-and-more-at-barrett-jacks/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/31/bret-michaels-selling-family-truckster-and-more-at-barrett-jacks/#commentsFiled under: ,

Bret Michaels

As the Poison frontman is wont to sing, every rose has its thorn. Indeed, if the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Bret Michaels sold at the 2011 Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale auction was that flower, his latest consignments are as painful as pricked fingers.

Michaels will be offering three vehicles at the sale, to be held January 15-22, 2012. The first (and the only marginally interesting one) is a 2004 Bentley Continental GT. The other two are Blue Oval SUVs that might more appropriately be found on a used car lot: A 2004 Lincoln Navigator and a 2011 Ford Explorer.

Clearly, it was nothin' but a good time for Michaels at last year's Barrett-Jackson, where his non-original Camaro fetched a remarkable $200,000. That's about five times what it might have sold for without playing the celebrity card. But hey, at least it was a '69 Camaro and Bret even threw in an autographed guitar.

This year, however, Michaels' consignments look like what the cat dragged in. While Barrett-Jackson is known for its unabashed embrace of celebrity cars of dubious quality and provenance, these offerings just hit a wrong note.

Continue reading Bret Michaels selling family truckster and more at Barrett-Jackson

Bret Michaels selling family truckster and more at Barrett-Jackson originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 31 Dec 2011 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2004 bentley continental gt2004 lincoln navigator2011 ford explorerbarrett-jacksonbarrett-jackson 2012bentleybret michaelscontinental gtexplorerfordlincolnnavigatorSat, 31 Dec 2011 14:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20137459/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/31/bret-michaels-selling-family-truckster-and-more-at-barrett-jacks/20137459/article-detail.xml 20137459 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/bret-bentley-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/bret-bentley-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Bentley bringing 500-hp, twin-turbo V8 Continental to Detroit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/bentley-bringing-500-hp-twin-turbo-v8-continental-to-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/bentley-bringing-500-hp-twin-turbo-v8-continental-to-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/bentley-bringing-500-hp-twin-turbo-v8-continental-to-detroit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 Bentley Continental GT V8

The Bentley Continental GT and GTC V8 has been unwrapped and it's a kinder, gentler bulldog that makes do with "just" 500 horsepower and 481 pound-feet from its 4.0-liter, twin-turbo V8. That is down 20 horsepower and up just 8 pound-feet from the output of the Audi S8, with which it shares the innovatively-packaged, cylinder-deactivating V8. We're going to guess that's to leave unquestionable space between it and the 631-hp Continental GT, and so Bentley could reach its 40 percent improvement goal with respect to emissions and gas mileage.

Specific numbers aren't divulged just yet, but it will get from standstill to 60 mph in under five seconds and will go more than 500 miles on a tank. Unless the tank size has changed from the 24-gallon receptacle in the big daddy W12, which we doubt, that means the V8 is good for at least 21 miles per gallon.

You'll be able to tell this one apart by its black grille with chrome accents, red Bentley "B" badge (red badges were traditionally used on sportier Bentleys, so we're not sure if that's meant to be a sign of this coupe's performance vs. the W12) and reworked treatment of the lower grille. The package rides on 20-inch wheels, same size as the flagship GT, but in back you'll find "figure-eight" tailpipes (which will quickly be swapped for something less obvious) and another red badge.

Both coupe and sedan will introduce themselves to rich buyers and not-so-rich voyeurs at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. You'll find a press release after the jump with obligatory references to inconceivable colors like Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus, and a high-res gallery of photos for much more understandable pleasures above.

Continue reading Bentley bringing 500-hp, twin-turbo V8 Continental to Detroit

Bentley bringing 500-hp, twin-turbo V8 Continental to Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 04:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bentley continental gtbentleybentley continental gt v8bentley continental gtc v8continental gtcontinental gt v8continental gtccontinental gtc v8detroitdetroit 2012Mon, 12 Dec 2011 04:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20125625/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/12/bentley-bringing-500-hp-twin-turbo-v8-continental-to-detroit/20125625/article-detail.xml 20125625 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-bentley-gt-v8-press-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-bentley-gt-v8-press-628.jpg <![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: Zagato's 2008 Bentley Continental GTZ show car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/10/ebay-find-of-the-day-zagatos-2008-bentley-continental-gtz-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/10/ebay-find-of-the-day-zagatos-2008-bentley-continental-gtz-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/10/ebay-find-of-the-day-zagatos-2008-bentley-continental-gtz-show/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2008 Bentley Continental GTZ by Zagato

Back in 2008, Milanese design studio Zagato got together with Bentley to create the Continental GTZ, a coachbuilt version of Crewe's prolific luxury coupe. Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show, the design had some beautiful elements, but the GTZ wasn't supposed to be a one-and-done affair. For a handsome fee, Zagato offered to rebody anyone's Continental GT to mirror the show car; no more than nine examples were to be built. Unfortunately, it looks like nobody was willing to shell out the €800,000 asking price (a bit over $1M USD - plus the donor car's MSRP) to have theirs converted.

As a result, it seems that only the one example was made. But - good news, everyone! - that solitary example, in two-tone silver and green - is now in the United States and available for sale. This is said to be the actual show car, based on a Continental GT Speed, that debuted at the Geneva Palexpo two and a half years ago. The one-of-a-kind creation has just 870 miles on the odometer and promises to endure as a unique collectable. However, that uniqueness carries an insane price tag: Bentley San Francisco, the seller, is looking for a $1.1 million starting bid (on a $1.45 million Buy It Now price). No bids have been registered thus far.

Have a closer look at the auction images from Bentley San Francisco in the gallery above, scope out our original images in the high-res gallery below and follow the link to the auction page for more.

eBay Find of the Day: Zagato's 2008 Bentley Continental GTZ show car originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 10 Dec 2011 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentleybentley continentalbentley continental gtzcontinental gtcontinental gtzgtzzagatoSat, 10 Dec 2011 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20122537/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/10/ebay-find-of-the-day-zagatos-2008-bentley-continental-gtz-show/20122537/article-detail.xml 20122537 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/zagato-conti_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/zagato-conti.jpg <![CDATA[Bentley showcases new Continental GTC in motion]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/bentley-showcases-new-continental-gtc-in-motion/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/bentley-showcases-new-continental-gtc-in-motion/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/bentley-showcases-new-continental-gtc-in-motion/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Bentley Continental GTC video

We've gotten the details. We've seen it at the auto show. We've even driven it in Croatia, and brought you our impressions. But there's only so much we can describe a car like the new Bentley Continental GTC, because the luxury cabriolet is an experience. It's about seeing and being seen. It's about wafting effortlessly down azure coastlines and feeling the wind in your hair.

Fortunately, for those of us who will never have the privilege, Bentley has released video footage of its new Continental GTC showing exactly that. Check it out after the jump.

Continue reading Bentley showcases new Continental GTC in motion

Bentley showcases new Continental GTC in motion originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bentley continental gtcbentley continental gtccontinentalcontinental gtcontinental gtcvideoWed, 05 Oct 2011 18:40:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20072268/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/05/bentley-showcases-new-continental-gtc-in-motion/20072268/article-detail.xml 20072268 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/conti-gtc-video_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/conti-gtc-video.jpg <![CDATA[Bentley CEO wants model variants to proliferate to Porsche 911-like levels]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/27/bentley-ceo-wants-model-variants-to-proliferate-to-porsche-911-l/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/27/bentley-ceo-wants-model-variants-to-proliferate-to-porsche-911-l/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/27/bentley-ceo-wants-model-variants-to-proliferate-to-porsche-911-l/#commentsFiled under:

Bentley Continental GT and Mulsanne

You don't port over an executive from one company to another without expecting him (or her) to apply the same sort of successful formulas that brought success for his former employer to the new one. And that's certainly the case with automotive executives. Alan Mulally, for example, was tipped to do for Ford what he had done at Boeing - namely, to put the American company at the forefront of the industry - and by many accounts, he has succeeded. The same could be said for Wolfgang Dürheimer.

As executive vice-president at Porsche, Dürheimer oversaw the expansion of the 911 model into a huge range of variants that, on the outgoing version, topped over two dozen. It's a formula that has helped Porsche become one of the most profitable automakers in the industry. And according to the latest from Autocar, that's what he hopes to do with the Continental family in his new position at Bentley, over which he has presided now for less than a year.

Between three body-styles and as many engine specifications, the Continental has already spawned a good eight variants, but if Dürheimer has his way - and he is chief executive, after all - that could expand significantly on the facelifted model to include lightweight models and various special editions.

Beyond the Continental range, however, the Mulsanne could grow a long-wheelbase model (much as the Rolls-Royce Phantom has) as well as coupe and convertible versions to replace the Brooklands and Azure models, respectively. These, in addition to ongoing rumors of a four-door coupe and an SUV to join the Flying B range from Crewe.

Bentley CEO wants model variants to proliferate to Porsche 911-like levels originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Sep 2011 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentleycontinental gtdurheimermodel proliferationmulsanneproliferationwolfgang dürheimerTue, 27 Sep 2011 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20067267/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/27/bentley-ceo-wants-model-variants-to-proliferate-to-porsche-911-l/20067267/article-detail.xml 20067267 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/65296bm2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/65296bm2.jpg <![CDATA[Bentley sales up 31 percent year to date]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/14/bentley-sales-up-31-percent-year-to-date/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/14/bentley-sales-up-31-percent-year-to-date/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/14/bentley-sales-up-31-percent-year-to-date/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Bentley logo

Just as Bentley publically unveils its new Continental GTC at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the company has announced sales figures for the first eight months of 2011. Things are looking good for the British automaker, with an increase of 31 percent compared to this time last year with more than 4,000 cars sold worldwide. The United States, Bentley's largest market, accounted for more than a quarter of the cars delivered, with sales up 36 percent. The largest increases, however, came in Germany and China, where sales are up by two-thirds. Bentley's sales in China exceeded 1,000 for the first time in the brand's history.

Bentley's impressive 2011 may come during a weakened world economy, but the company's rebound is a product of a mostly new line-up. The all-new Mulsanne and the significantly refreshed Continental GT both hit showroom floors for the first time this year. The Continental GTC convertible should also help Bentley continue its strong sales into next year. Follow the jump to read the complete press release from Bentley and be on the lookout for a live photos of the Continental GTC from Frankfurt very soon.

Continue reading Bentley sales up 31 percent year to date

Bentley sales up 31 percent year to date originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentleybentley 2011 salesbentley salescontinental gtcontinental gtcmulsanneWed, 14 Sep 2011 08:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20040141/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/14/bentley-sales-up-31-percent-year-to-date/20040141/article-detail.xml 20040141 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/bentley-2011-sales_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/bentley-2011-sales.jpg -1 2