This is the second time we come across Bentley’s prototypes of the second-gen Continental model, in both coupe (GT) and convertible (GTC) guises.
Our spies spotted the two test cars on the roads around Nurburgring, still hiding most of their new styling under plastic panels on top of the real body. In fact only the roof and doors appear to be free of any camouflage.
Still, it’s evident that the next Conti will have a more dramatic presence with a lower profile, while design influence is expected to come from the impressive Bentley EXP 10 Speed 6 study that debuted at the 2015 Geneva auto show.
Under the skin, the second generation of the Continental GT and GTC models will be based on the MSB platform that currently underpins the Porsche Panamera, allowing Bentley to score not only a significant reduction in weight, but also make the new model compatible with a hybrid powertrain as well.
Range-topping models will continue using a W12 engine with more than 600hp on tap, while ‘lesser’ versions will be powered by a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8, known from the Porsche Panamera, in which case it develops 550hp. Our intel suggests that Bentley might even install the smaller twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 from the Panamera 4S as well, offering 440hp.
The plug-in hybrid technology will come from Porsche again, with the powertrain to be updated and fine-tuned to suit Bentley’s standards, once the new Continental GT and GTC make their debuts in late 2017.
Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoops
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