Anticipated Hybrid Launch
We anticipated the end of Bentley’s iconic W-12 engine and the introduction of a new hybrid system. What remained unknown was which Bentley model would first feature this replacement. Now, the wait is over as the first Ultra Performance Hybrid (UPH) with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 is set to debut this June.
2025 Bentley Continental GT: The First Hybrid
The 2025 Bentley Continental GT will be the first to receive this hybrid upgrade, befitting the legacy of the W-12. With the launch imminent, more details about the UPH powerplant have emerged.
When both the internal combustion engine (ICE) and the electric motor are combined, the vehicle will deliver approximately 771 hp and 737.5 lb-ft of torque, a significant boost of 121 hp and 73.5 lb-ft over the Mulliner W12 Coupe.
READ MORE: Bentley’s ‘Edition 8’ Limited Editions Mark the End of the V-8 Era
Performance and Transmission
While the specific transmission details are yet to be revealed, the Continental GT will feature an active all-wheel-drive (AWD) system capable of torque vectoring. It’s highly likely that the ZF-based eight-speed automatic transmission will make a return.
The electronic limited-slip differential will also be back, ensuring maximum traction as soon as you hit the accelerator. The only sound you’ll hear will be the tires gripping the asphalt. As a hybrid model, the 2025 Continental GT can drive up to 50 miles solely on electric power.
Enhanced Driving Dynamics
The driving dynamics of the 2025 Continental GT are expected to be as impressive as, if not better than, the original W-12. This is thanks to the tuning of the 48-volt electric anti-roll control system, a retuned rear-wheel steering system, and advanced dual-valve dampers. Bentley assures that this latest iteration of the Continental GT chassis technology will deliver exceptional performance, maintaining its reputation as a formidable GT coupe.
Future Hybrid Variants
There may be more hybrid variants of the Continental GT in the future. Although Bentley hasn’t announced additional hybrid platforms, we anticipate the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 hybrid powertrain will be available in future versions of the Continental GT Base, C, S, and Azure models. These versions are expected to offer more than the 456 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque found in the Bentayga.
Refreshed Exterior Design
In addition to the new UPH V-8, the Continental GT will sport a refreshed exterior. The traditional quartet of front lights will be replaced by a pair of headlights with integrated side marker lights. Updates to the side grilles and lower fascia are also expected, although these may not be standard across all models. The iconic grille appears to feature a new module, potentially indicating the inclusion of modern ADAS features. The front brakes will have eight-piston units.
Rear Design Changes
Despite the hybrid engine, dual exhaust pipes remain on the revised rear fascia. The area around the rear license plate now stands out more prominently, blending into the rear bumper in an inverted U-shape, echoing the rear decklid. The new taillight design extends wider and deeper into the decklid face, splitting when the trunk is open rather than remaining fixed. Additionally, the fuel filler door may have moved from the right-side rear quarter panel to the left side, maintaining the body lines as seen in the 2024 model.
Charge Port Mystery
One notable absence in the new design images is the charge port location. It’s possible that the new left-hand port serves this function, but there’s no evidence of a matching cover on the right-hand side, unlike the Bentayga PHEV and earlier test mules of a PHEV Continental GT, which had port covers on both rear quarters. This raises questions about whether the Continental GT’s UPH system is a PHEV, if the charge port is situated elsewhere, or if it’s hidden by camouflage wrapping.
Milestone Celebration
The launch of the UPH-powered Continental GT coincides with a significant milestone, potentially becoming the 100,000th model produced since its debut in 2002 (with the U.S. seeing its first in the 2004 model year). This milestone adds a special significance to the release of this groundbreaking hybrid model.
READ MORE: Jay Kay Selling Rare Bentley Featured in Jamiroquai Music Video for Over £1 Million
Subscribe today for the freshest car news delivered to your inbox
