Tech Souls, Connected.

Bentley Supersports Returns: Rear-Drive Continental GT Drops Hybrid for V8 Power

Bentley revives its iconic Supersports badge for a limited-run, rear-wheel drive Continental GT powered by a 657 bhp twin-turbo V8, ditching hybrids in favour of pure ICE exhilaration.


100 Years On: The Supersports Legacy Returns

Bentley has brought back the Supersports nameplate for the fourth time, marking a century since it first appeared on the 1925 Bentley 3 Litre Super Sports—the brand’s first 100 mph car. Reimagined for modern times, this new iteration is limited to just 500 units globally and debuts as the most hardcore version of the Continental GT yet.

In a bold move, Bentley has ditched plug-in hybrid tech, transforming the Supersports into a rear-wheel drive ICE-only grand tourer, a first since the modern Continental GT lineage began in 2003.


Engine & Performance: Twin-Turbo V8 Sends 657 bhp to the Rear

Under the hood lies an updated 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with:

  • 657 bhp (66 bhp more than the standard V8)
  • 800 Nm of torque
  • 0–100 km/h in 3.7 seconds
  • A top speed of 310 km/h

This powerplant is paired with a re-tuned ZF 8-speed DCT, featuring revised software and clutches for sharper downshifts—particularly effective under hard braking. For those craving mechanical drama, Bentley adds a titanium exhaust system developed with Akrapovič, promising an intoxicating soundtrack.

To handle the added performance, Bentley:

  • Widened the rear track by 16 mm
  • Added rear-wheel steering for agility
  • Equipped an electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD)
  • Introduced torque vectoring via braking

This setup ensures precise control despite sending all power to just two driven wheels.


Design: Purpose-Built with Aero and Weight Loss in Mind

The new Supersports is far from subtle. Unlike its elegant siblings, this version is aerodynamically sculpted for performance:

  • A lower front bumper with large splitters and integrated cooling ducts
  • Extended sidesills and B-shaped fender blades for airflow management
  • A fixed carbon fibre rear spoiler and rear diffuser for high-speed stability

Bentley focused on reducing weight across the car, shaving nearly 500 kg from the standard model. Key lightweight components include:

  • Carbon fibre roof panel, spoiler, diffuser
  • Two-seat configuration (rear seats removed)
  • Lighter bucket seats and reduced sound insulation

The result: a curb weight under 2,000 kg—incredibly lean for a luxury grand tourer.


Interior: Race-Inspired Luxury

Inside, the Supersports is as much track-focused as it is luxurious. Key features include:

  • Leather and Dinamica upholstery in monotone, dual-tone, or tri-tone options
  • High-gloss carbon fibre trim throughout the cabin
  • Bucket seats with 11-way electric adjustability and heating
  • A carbon fibre tub replaces rear seating, wrapped in soft-touch leather
  • 12.3-inch infotainment system and a full digital driver display

While minimalism takes precedence, Bentley retains enough comfort and sophistication to make the car usable for spirited touring.


Launch Timeline & Market Availability

Bentley plans to begin production in Q4 2026, with a January 2026 unveil and deliveries in early 2027. Pricing is yet to be confirmed but is expected to sit well above the base Continental GT’s $300,000 (~₹2.6 crore) tag.

However, an India launch is unlikely, with the majority of the 500 units earmarked for the US and European markets.

Share this article
Shareable URL
Prev Post

The McLaren P47: SUV Shift Begins with Hybrid V8 and Bold Design

Next Post

Hyundai & Kia Set to Cross 1 Million Hybrid Sales as EV Momentum Slows

Read next