- The electrified Continental GTS has added 128 hp.
- Torque increases by 118 lb-ft (160 Nm).
- Bentley claims the hybrid V8 is better than the retired W12.
Almost two years after the launch of the fourth generation, Bentley is continuing the Continental lineup. The GTS is the newest member of the portfolio, sitting below the Speed and Cutter Superports while slotting above the base version. The latter is the only non-electric flavor and the only member of the family with a rear-wheel drive layout.
The GTS follows a familiar formula by combining a hybrid V8 setup with all-wheel drive. Compared to the previous generation model, the power has increased considerably thanks to the electric power. Output increases by 128 HP and 118 lb-ft (160 Nm) to an astonishing 670 HP and 686 lb-ft (930 Nm). Although the W12 has been sorely missed, Bentley claims the new setup improves upon the retired twelve-cylinder powerhouse that bowed out with a beautiful bettor.
Another feather in its cap is the ability to shut down the engine completely and glide on electric power for up to 30 miles (50 km). It’s also the first time Bentley has fitted the Continental GTS with rear-wheel steering and an electronic limited-slip differential. Borrowed from the Spicer Speed, the S also uses a 48-volt active anti-roll system and state-of-the-art electronic stability control.
Photo by: Bentley
Fast, but slow
A cross-plane 4.0-liter V8 and electric motor help the Continental GTS hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in just three and a half seconds. It’s half a second faster than its predecessor, though it won’t be quite as fast at the top end. Still, the 190 mph (306 km/h) top speed is plenty, even if your daily commute includes the Autobahn.
Bentley has put effort into setting the S apart from other Continental GT flavors. Black exterior accents abound, including tinted headlights and taillights and blacked-out spoilers. To complete the look, the standard two-tone wheels can be swapped out for an all-black set.
Although interior images are limited at this point, we do know that the S is not available with the two-tone upholstery available on other continental models. The exterior’s dark theme continues inside with piano black trim, and, as an option, Bentley applies a deep-tinted chrome finish to the bright metalwork.
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Source: Bentley
Take Motor 1: We’re glad to see Bentley making good on its promise to ditch combustion engines, even if that means going the hybrid route. Late last year, CEO Frank Stephen Walliser promised the British luxury marque would “continue to satisfy customers with a choice of powertrains.” Earlier, the company had promised to go fully electric by the end of the decade. Thankfully, this is no longer the case.
With an existing mix of gas and hybrids, as well as an EV launching later this year, Bentley aims to cater to all types of buyers. However, the loss of W12 cannot be ignored, and it may partly explain why sales are slipping. In 2025, the company sold 10,100 units, or 4.8 percent less than the previous year. Looking back, 2024 wasn’t great either, with demand down 21.5% from 2023.
Meanwhile, a streak of record-breaking Lamborghini sales has allowed the furious bull to move more cars than Bentley in the past two years. Both automakers are technically owned by Audi and, along with Ducati, fall under the brand group Progressive umbrella.
