Categories: Automotive

Bentley Continental GT Supersports goes rear-drive, shedding weight for a sharper thrill

Bentley Continental GT Supersports goes rear-drive, shedding weight for a sharper thrill

Introduction: A new breed of Bentley performance

Bentley is redefining its performance halo with the Continental GT Supersports, a model that pairs ferocious power with a focused, rear-drive chassis. In an era of all-wheel-drive supremacy, Bentley’s engineers are embracing rear-wheel drive to sharpen handling, reduce weight, and maximize the raw driving sensation for enthusiasts who crave precision as much as horsepower.

Engine and performance credentials

Under the muscular hood sits a strengthened 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 that punches out 490 kW and 800 Nm of torque. This power output, channeled through a dedicated setup for the Supersports, translates into blistering acceleration and a soundtrack that remains unmistakably Bentley. The move to rear-drive—paired with carefully tuned suspension—aims to deliver a more intimate, driver-focused feel without sacrificing the brand’s refined interior experience.

Weight reduction: carbon fibre and a leaner cabin

One of the defining aspects of the Supersports package is its aggressive weight reduction. Carbon fibre components are used liberally, and the rear cabin has been pared back to shave precious kilograms. The result is a claimed weight just under two tonnes, a notable decrease for a Bentley performance model and a crucial factor in the car’s dynamic balance and agility on twisty roads.

Chassis and handling refinements

Bentley’s engineers have tuned the Supersports’ chassis to exploit the new rear-drive philosophy. Reduced weight, a stiffer platform, and a recalibrated damper system work in concert to offer sharper turn-in, improved mid-corner stability, and a more communicative steering experience. The objective is not only straight-line speed but a heightened sense of connection between driver, car, and road.

Exterior and interior philosophy

Exterior changes emphasize performance presence without sacrificing Bentley’s aristocratic styling. Aerodynamic tweaks and a leaner silhouette are complemented by lightweight wheels and high-performance brakes that match the engine’s exuberance. Inside, the Supersports continues the brand’s hallmark hospitality—premium materials, refined switches, and a driver-centric cockpit—while ensuring left the door open for bespoke personalization that Bentley clients expect.

Production and availability

Production of the Continental GT Supersports is scheduled to begin in late 2026, with 500 units planned for global delivery. Each example will be individually numbered, underscoring the model’s exclusivity and collector appeal. Bentley confirms that this is more than a halo car—it’s a deliberate shift toward a leaner, more dynamic form of grand touring that still honors the brand’s luxury roots.

Who is this car for?

The Supersports is aimed at enthusiasts who want a rare performance Bentley that’s not just about lap times but about a holistic driving experience. It’s for buyers who value precise steering, a visceral exhaust note, and the satisfaction of a bespoke, limited-run model that feels special from the first turn of the key to the last mile behind the wheel.

Conclusion: A bold reimagining of Bentley’s performance ethos

By embracing rear-drive, significant weight loss, and a committed powertrain upgrade, Bentley’s Continental GT Supersports signals a bold rethinking of what a modern mega-grand tourer can be. The blend of extreme power, disciplined chassis work, and refined luxury is squarely aimed at driving enthusiasts who demand emotion as well as exclusivity in their high-speed travel.