Bentley Continental flips its lid

THE Bentley 2+2 GTC convertible completes the Continental model trio, which started with the highly successful Continental GT coupe two years ago and gre to comprise the four-door Continental Flying Spur sedan earlier this year.

With a top speed of more than 304km/h, a sophisticated all-wheel drive system, state-of-the-art W12-cylinder engine, advanced air suspension and ultra-stiff body structure, the GTC displays all the poise, performance and handling of the Continental GT.

In common with its stablemates, the hand built interior utilises enough natural wood veneers and leather to worry Greenpeace.

Although sharing the distinctive face of the Continental family, GTC is claimed by Bentley to be unique.

In keeping with the Bentley tradition, the GTC has a soft-fabric roof insulated to survive an icy polar blast, complemented by a large heated glass rear screen. When stowed below its hide-covered tonneau, it ensures excellent space for both rear passengers and their luggage.

Like Rolls-Royce, the GTC’s power output could best be described as sufficiently adequate.

For those vulgar to ask about performance the 4807mm long leviathan pumps our 411kW at 6100rpm from its 6.0-litre W12 – shared with VW’s Phaeton limousine – and is mated to a six-speed ZF automatic.

650Nm of torque is delivered from just 1600rpm – endowing the GTC with enough tally ho to stay well ahead of the chattering middle classes.

The GTC goes on sale late next year.