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Bentley Continetal GT S: Taming the Beast

### The New Bentley Continental GT S: A More Accessible Monster Bentley is expanding its Continental GT coupe and GTC convertible range with a revived S model designed to blend the GT’s comparatively sedate powertrain with the sharper handling offered on the GT Speed and Mulliner models. That’s a lot of letters being thrown around; what exactly does it mean? To put it simply, the S package gives you access to its flagship handling bundle at a slightly lower (though yet unannounced) price point. That bundle is known as Bentley Performance Active Chassis. That’s the fancy marketing term for the suspension and drivetrain features that help keep this beast from feeling like it weighs less than it actually does—about 5,400 pounds. In addition to the torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system, it comprises an active electronic anti-roll system, an electronic limited-slip differential, and all-wheel steering. Previously, the only way to get the Bentley ...

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### The New Bentley Continental GT S: A More Accessible Monster
Bentley is expanding its Continental GT coupe and GTC convertible range with a revived S model designed to blend the GT’s comparatively sedate powertrain with the sharper handling offered on the GT Speed and Mulliner models. That’s a lot of letters being thrown around; what exactly does it mean?

To put it simply, the S package gives you access to its flagship handling bundle at a slightly lower (though yet unannounced) price point. That bundle is known as Bentley Performance Active Chassis. That’s the fancy marketing term for the suspension and drivetrain features that help keep this beast from feeling like it weighs less than it actually does—about 5,400 pounds.

In addition to the torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system, it comprises an active electronic anti-roll system, an electronic limited-slip differential, and all-wheel steering. Previously, the only way to get the Bentley Performance Active Chassis was to opt for the GT Speed or Mulliner models, both of which offer another 100 horsepower from a re-tuned version of the 4.0-liter hybrid V8 that produces 671 horsepower and 686 pound-feet of torque in the GT and GTC—and will do the same in both S models.

Bentley says the new S will make good use of that extra thrust; both the GT and GT C should reach 60 mph in 3.3 seconds on the way to a top speed of 190 mph. A Supersports it is not, but it’ll also go 50 miles in pure electric mode, if you’re into that sort of thing.

That said, Bentley wanted to bring a little bit of that over-the-top monster’s character to the S line. To that end, GT S and GTC S drivers will have the ability to fully defeat the car’s stability control system.

Bentley S models will benefit from a handful of visual distinctions, but to spot one in the wild will require an eagle eye. The “Blackline” look is standard on both S models, but neither is anywhere near as visually shouty as the equivalent GT Speed. So much the better, in my opinion.

An “S” badge on the dash pairs with gloss-black veneer trim for a sportier interior look. Carbon fiber and leather are both available for a more sophisticated look. You can also remove all chrome/polished elements from the interior if subtlety is more your preference.

No word yet on exactly when the new Continental GT S and GTC S will be available to order, but if you’re in the market, I’d wager you know where to leave your deposit.

### A More Accessible Monster
The new Continental GT S is a more accessible version of Bentley’s flagship model. With the addition of the Bentley Performance Active Chassis, the S models now offer a balance between the GT’s relatively tame powertrain and the GT Speed and Mulliner models’ sharper handling.

The S models will make good use of the extra power, reaching 60 mph in 3.3 seconds and boasting a top speed of 190 mph. The all-wheel-drive system, active electronic anti-roll system, and electronic limited-slip differential work together to keep the car stable and responsive, even when pushed to its limits.

The interior of the S models is sportier than the standard GT, with an “S” badge on the dash and gloss-black veneer trim. Carbon fiber and leather are also available for a more sophisticated look, and you can remove all chrome/polished elements from the interior if you prefer a more subtle appearance.

### Conclusion
The Bentley Continental GT S is a more accessible version of the company’s flagship model, offering a balance between the GT’s relatively tame powertrain and the GT Speed and Mulliner models’ sharper handling. With its all-wheel-drive system, active electronic anti-roll system, and electronic limited-slip differential, the S models are well-equipped to handle the road with confidence.

The S models also offer a range of visual distinctions, including the “Blackline” look and an “S” badge on the dash. Carbon fiber and leather are also available for a more sophisticated look, and you can remove all chrome/polished elements from the interior if you prefer a more subtle appearance.

Overall, the Bentley Continental GT S is a great option for those who want a luxury car that can handle the road with confidence, without breaking the bank.

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