- Bentley now offers a new "High Performance Hybrid" powertrain. Continental GT , Convertible Continental GT, and Flying Spur sedan For the 2026 model year.
- The propulsion system is similar to the 771-horsepower engine featured in the newest Speed versions but has been adjusted to produce 671 horsepower and 686 pound-feet of torque.
- The updated configuration will be available in both the standard versions and the chrome-accented Azure trim levels of these vehicles. luxury cars .
Last summer, Bentley updated the Continental GT by introducing a new Speed variant equipped with a plug-in hybrid V-8 engine, which replaced the longstanding W-12 unit. This configuration was later integrated into the 2025 Flying Spur Speed too. Currently, Bentley is adding a slightly less powerful version of this V-8 hybrid system to the lineup, making it available on the Continental GT coupe, Continental GT convertible, and Flying Spur sedan for the 2026 model year.
Bentley refers to this setup as the High Performance Hybrid powertrain, distinguishing it from the Ultra Performance Hybrid used in the Speed and Mulliner versions. This newly configured system pairs the bi-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 with an electric motor, generating a combined output of 671 horsepower and 686 pound-feet of torque. Despite having 100 less horsepower compared to the Ultra Performance Hybrid, this version still packs more punch than the former W-12 engines featured in earlier Speed models.
This substantial power enables the Continental GT to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. In comparison, both the Continental GT convertible and the Flying Spur sedan take 3.8 seconds for the same acceleration. Additionally, these new versions come fitted with adaptive dampers, rear-wheel steer technology, and an electronically controlled limited-slip diff.
According to Bentley, the Continental GT plug-in hybrid has an all-electric range of 53 miles, surpassing the claimed distance of the Ultra Performance Hybrid variant by about 10 miles. For the convertible version, they claim it can go up to 51 miles purely on electricity. However, no estimated range was offered for the Flying Spur model.
The upcoming powertrain will be available in what Bentley refers to as "base" or standard versions, along with the posher Azure trim level, emphasizing "wellness and comfort." These fresh Bentley editions feature refreshed designs; the basic models come adorned with ample glossy black accents and sport identical intricate headlamps found on the 2025 Speed series. Inside, you can choose between shiny or matte chromium trims for the interior, maintaining an exquisite appearance as always.
The updated Azure model stands out thanks to its striking bright chrome grille surround paired with vertical vanes, complemented by glossy accents in the bumper and a sleek gloss-black front splitter. It features exclusive 22-inch wheels and distinctive Azure emblems on the front fenders. Inside, the cabin boasts diamond-quilted leather upholstery adorned with "Azure" embroidery on the headrests. Additionally, the Continental GT Azure comes equipped with a panoramic sunroof, whereas the convertible version includes a neck heater for comfort when lowering the roof during cooler autumn days.
Bentley hasn’t announced prices for the new versions yet. For the 2025 model year, the Continental GT Speed kicks off at $306,250, suggesting that the upcoming entry-level version will likely fall under the $300,000 threshold. In comparison, the 2024 base model was priced at $245,850, whereas the Azure retailed for $294,450. Additionally, the 2025 Flying Spur Speed begins at $276,450; thus, we anticipate the lower-tier Flying Spur to start somewhere near $225,000, with an estimated price point for the Azure around $260,000.
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