Buckle up, car enthusiasts, because Bentley is shaking things up with a new rear-wheel-drive beast! But wait, isn't Bentley known for its luxurious four-wheel-drive vehicles? Well, this time they're going against the grain.
Celebrating a Century of Speed: Bentley is marking the 100th anniversary of the original Supersports with a new model, but this time it's not your typical Bentley. Based on the Continental GT Coupe, the new Supersports ditches the usual four-wheel-drive setup and goes for a more lightweight, rear-wheel-drive configuration.
A Different Kind of Power: Say goodbye to the massive V12 engine and hello to a plug-in hybrid twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8. But here's where it gets controversial—the hybrid system has been removed for the Supersports, along with two propshafts, making it rear-wheel drive. And this is the part most people miss—it's not broken; it's a deliberate choice for a more thrilling driving experience.
Lightweight and Powerful: This new setup makes the Supersports significantly lighter than the standard Continental GT. Although Bentley hasn't revealed the exact weight reduction, they hint at a substantial drop, possibly around 500kg, making it the lightest Bentley in over eight decades. And don't worry, it's still packing a punch with 666hp and 800Nm of torque, delivered to the rear wheels through an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission.
Performance and Sound: With a 0-100km/h sprint time of 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 310km/h, the Supersports is no slouch. But Bentley emphasizes that raw numbers aren't everything; it's about how the car performs dynamically. And let's not forget the full-length titanium exhaust, crafted by Akrapovic, delivering a deep and authentic V8 roar without any artificial enhancement.
Handling and Technology: The Supersports is equipped with an electronic limited-slip differential and a clever brake torque vectoring system, along with rear-wheel steering. The stability control system features an upgraded Dynamic mode, allowing for some playful drifting. The suspension setup includes a double-wishbone design with twin-chamber air springs and Bentley's 'Dynamic Ride' system, ensuring a smooth and controlled ride.
Braking Power: Behind the stylish 22-inch forged alloy wheels lie the world's largest automotive braking system, according to Bentley. Massive 440 mm Carbon-Silicon-Carbide (CSiC) discs at the front and 410 mm discs at the rear provide exceptional stopping power. And for those who want to make a statement, there's an option for red-painted calipers.
Aerodynamic Enhancements: Bentley has added a carbon roof panel, a lower front bumper with an integrated splitter and winglets, new side sills, a rear diffuser, and a fixed rear spoiler. These modifications result in an impressive 300kg of downforce at high speeds, enabling the Supersports to corner 30% quicker than a Continental GT Speed with up to 1.3g of lateral force.
Interior Refinement: While the Supersports is all about performance, it's still a Bentley. The rear seats have been replaced by a carbon-fiber tub, and even the rear stereo speakers have been removed to shed weight. The front sports seats are lighter yet still offer 11-way electric adjustment and heating. The cabin blends carbon fiber, leather, and Dinamica suede, creating a luxurious and sporty ambiance.
Limited Edition and Personalization: Bentley will produce only 500 units of the Supersports, each with a unique numbered plaque. Customers can choose from 24 color options and further customize their vehicle through Bentley's 'Mulliner' bespoke program. And yes, you can even add go-faster stripes to this high-performance machine.
A Tribute to Mildred Mary Petre: The code name for the project, 'Mildred,' pays homage to a remarkable woman. Mildred Mary Petre, born in 1895, was a record-breaker in various fields, including racing cars, powerboats, and aviation. In 1929, she set an endurance record by driving a Bentley 4½ Litre solo for 24 hours at the Montlhery circuit in France, averaging nearly 90 mph. Bentley's new Supersports continues a legacy that began with the 1925 model, capable of speeds over 100mph, and includes iconic variants from 2009 and 2017.
A Bold Statement: Bentley's Chairman and CEO, Dr. Frank-Steffen Walliser, emphasizes that the new Supersports represents a return to the brand's daring side. It combines extreme performance, driver engagement, and bespoke craftsmanship. This limited-edition model is a testament to Bentley's commitment to pushing boundaries and celebrating its rich history.
Exclusivity and Availability: If you're considering adding this rare gem to your garage, you'll need to act fast. The Supersports is expected to sell out quickly, with an official world premiere in Dubai in January and order books opening in March. And as for the price, well, if you have to ask, you might want to start saving up!
