Key Takeaways
- Bentley is bidding farewell to the iconic V8 with three special Edition 8 models in the US.
- The V8 engine will live on in the Bentayga for now, but is being phased out in Europe.
- Bentley is transitioning to V8 and V6 plug-in hybrids, with more power and electric range.
Bentley is saying goodbye to its famous 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 in America with special “Edition 8” versions of the Continental GT, Continental GTC, and Flying Spur. Only available in the US, these bespoke vehicles pay homage to decades of V8 excellence that have powered iconic Bentley models of all kinds. As the last non-electrified Bentley sedans and coupes, the brand wanted to go all out with the most popular options.
Bentley
Bentley Motors Limited is a British manufacturer of luxury automobiles. Its early history (particularly during the 1920s) is marked by several wins in the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race, and although the brand still competes in various motorsport disciplines around the world, it’s become synonymous with Rolls-Royce (once its owner) as a purveyor of exquisite luxury goods and fine design. Its Mulliner division creates ultra-exclusive bespoke vehicles, carrying on a long-standing tradition of coachbuilding that H.J. Mulliner & Co. started in 1897.
- Founded
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18 January 1919
- Founder
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Walter Owen Bentley
- Headquarters
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Crewe, England
- Owned By
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Volkswagen Group
- Current CEO
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Adrian Hallmark, as of October 1 2024
With the end of the W12, we knew the twin-turbo V8 wasn’t too far behind. The company is planning on completely phasing it out in Europe first, with the US soon after. While it’s dying in these models, it will live on in the Bentayga for the time being, so it’s more about saying goodnight and not goodbye.
All The Best In One Edition
The brand says most of the Mulliner Personal Commissioning options are included on these models, starting with the Blackline specification that blacks out exterior trim. There are 22-inch rims in either 5- or 10-spoke designs with self-leveling wheel badges paired with 60 exterior color options from the Mulliner extended paint range. The exterior is finished with LED welcome lamps, a “jewel” filler cap, and Edition 8 badging.
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On the inside, the cars offer Comfort specification seats with Palm Fluting, giving them a unique style over a mainstream Bentley. Embroidery with the Edition 8 logo and the Bentley rotating display finish the design. If this piques your curiosity, you can reach out to Bentley North America to inquire, but do it quickly as deliveries are starting imminently.
Out With the Old V8, In With The New
Despite what these special editions would have you believe, Bentley isn’t doing away with its V8 engine, just transforming it into something new and moving it upmarket. The company says the new plug-in hybrid V8 powertrain will replace the iconic W12, and join other hybridized setups in the Bentley range.
Related
Say Goodbye To The Bentley W12 With An Inside Look At How It’s Built
Bentley is set to end the fabled W12 combustion engine’s production next year.
It will produce 739 horsepower and 737 lb-ft of torque, up from 626 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque in the W12. Additionally, you’ll have access to 50 miles of electric-only range, perfect for short commutes and the ultra-luxury clientele Bentley serves. Bentley plans on offering a hybrid model for every vehicle in its lineup this year, then moving to exclusively V6 and V8 hybrids, and eventually full electrification by 2033.
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