Bentley Continental GT Coupe

ON THE ROAD

Performance
Bentley engines have traditionally been huge and torquey, and the Continental GT's twin-turbo 12-cylinder 6.0-litre engine obeys all the rules. Despite weighing nearly 2400kg, this car posts Ferrari-like acceleration figures. The flagship model, the GT Speed, packs 600bhp and hits 202mph, making it the fastest road-going Bentley ever.

Ride & handling
It might be fast, but the GT is by no means a raw sports car. You get the reassurance of four-wheel drive, as well as adjustable air suspension that mostly strikes a good balance between comfort and control. Sharp motorway joints and battered B-roads can upset its composure, though.

Refinement
The big engine is almost silent at a steady cruise, and emits an appealing burble whenever you prod the throttle. However, the car can be rather jerky around town. To make matters worse, the GT's steamroller-sized wheels and tyres generate a lot of road noise, and, even with double-glazing fitted, its pillarless side windows let in a fair amount of wind noise.

OWNERSHIP

Buying & owning
The Continental GT might be cheap for a Bentley, but it still comes under the 'if you have to ask, you can't afford one' category. Running costs will be very high, with it averaging less than 20mpg, although demand should keep resale values strong.

Quality & reliability
The Continental GT uses many components from the Volkswagen Phaeton limo, but those who sneer should settle into its leather-clad cabin and note the exemplary quality of the fixtures and fittings before passing judgement. We've no reason to doubt the Audi and VW-sourced mechanicals, either.

Safety & security
The GT is a very safe car to drive, with peerless traction from its four-wheel-drive system. Electronic safety systems help you avoid skids, while twin front, side and curtain airbags, and active anti-whiplash front head restraints protect occupants in a shunt. Deadlocks and an alarm are on hand to keep thieves at bay.

IN THE CABIN

Behind the wheel
There's a wide range of electric adjustment to help drivers of different shapes and sizes make themselves comfortable, and although you sit quite high, the high window line creates a secure feel. The dash is styled to echo the wings of the Bentley badge, and is reasonably user-friendly. However, the thick, steeply angled windscreen pillars leave blind spots at roundabouts and junctions.

Space & practicality
Space isn't a problem if you're sitting in the front, and small adults will fit (for short distances) in the twin rear seats. The Continental GT is a lot more practical than any supercar you can buy for the money, then, especially since you also get a large, well-shaped boot with a low loading lip.

Equipment
The Continental GT comes with nearly every piece of equipment you can think of. There's a paddle-shift system for the automatic gearbox, as well as satellite-navigation, climate control, cruise control and an elaborate stereo. In typical Bentley style, customers can also specify virtually any other luxury item they might desire

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