A 4.0-litre, Audi-based V8 engine is to be added to the line-up of Bentley's highly successful Continental GT. It's targeted at reducing the range's average CO2 emissions figure.
Engine choice for the GT will now triple as the V8 is to come in two versions along with the regular W12. The entry-level variant of the eight-cylinder featuring a single turbocharger will generate 415hp while the other equipped with two turbochargers will be positioned at approximately 555hp. This is a slight decrease in power compared to the twin-turbo, 6.0-litre W12 with 565hp, but a more attractive option with its lower price tag and better efficiency.
All the engines are direct injected, and there is a further increase in range. While the 2010 W12 option achieved 13mpg combined fuel consumption (21.7 litres/100km), the new V8s may prove further beyond at an estimated 18mpg (15.7 litres/100km).
The unit may also be equipped with a version of Audi's S-tronic double clutch gearbox system later on, as Bentley is known to be already working on the development.
It is unlikely; however, that the Bentley Continental GT with the new V8 will be available to customers this year as factory capacity is filled with the production of the Mulsanne for 2011.
We expect to find out more at the Geneva Motor Show.