Exterior

From the familiar Bentley powerline running down the side of the car to its sleek electric roof, the Continental GT V8 S Convertible looks every bit as sophisticated as any convertible Bentley – but with the added sporting edge that comes from a series of new S model exterior details. Whether the roof position is up or down, the Bentley Continental GT V8 S Convertible cuts a striking silhouette. Yet when this beautiful grand tourer is in full flight, its observers may only get a fleeting glimpse. There’s also a stunning new front face and rear spoiler that bites the rear wheels into every corner, ensuring more intensity from every drive.

Engineering

Beneath the bonnet of the Continental GT V8 S Convertible beats a monstrous heart: a 4.0 litre, twin-turbocharged V8 engine generating 680 Newton metres (502 lb.ft) of torque. Additionally, for the ultimate in efficient performance, the engineering team introduced hot-side inside (HSI) technology: in essence, a method of reducing both energy wastage and engine weight by mounting the turbochargers within the ‘V’ of the V8 cylinder arrangement. The result of all this innovation is a Continental GT V8 S Convertible with improved power performance, with no penalty to fuel economy or emissions.

Interior

When you sit beneath the four-layer insulated roof, it’s easy to forget you’re in a convertible, such is the craftsmanship of the roof. The obsessive attention to detail of Bentley’s craftsmen is apparent throughout the cabin, where carefully selected leather hides meet smooth metal surfaces to create a striking blend of handcrafted luxury and steely modernism. It can be felt when you first grasp the new steering wheel and climb sublimely through the gears using the paddle-shift gear selectors.