Bentley’s Continental GT V8 gets a subtle bump for 2014 with the addition of the GT V8 S model, which debuted this week in Frankfurt. A gentle nudge takes the 4.0 twin-turbo V8’s horsepower to 521, and torque is increased to 502 pound-feet. The eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive system are unchanged, but 0-60 comes up in 4.3 seconds. The Continental GT V8 S will run all the way to 192mph, and at reasonable speeds, Bentley promises a 500-mile cruising range.
To take the fullest advantage of the increased power, the Continental GT V8 S has a lowered suspension and stiffer springs, bushings and anti-roll bars. The shocks and steering have been recalibrated, and Bentley has tweaked the stability control as well.
Styling changes are subtle, limited to a Beluga Black front splitter, side sills and rear diffuser. Twenty-inch wheels are unique to the V8 S, and the brake calipers are painted red of course. Inside, two-tone interior hides and a contrasting center stripe on the headliner set the uprated Continental apart.
The Continental GT V8 S will be available as a coupe or convertible, and it goes on sale in early 2014.
