Bentley’s Gas V-8 Engine Nearing its End

Continental GT, GTC, Flying Spur to retire V-8 engine, Bentayga keeps it alive.

Bentley is not just discontinuing the long-standing W-12 engine, but it’s also marking the start of the decline of the petrol-only V-8. The latest Edition 8 range includes the Continental GT, Continental GT Convertible, and the Flying Spur as the final models to feature a petrol-only V-8. Looking on the bright side, the traditional V-8 will still be available in the Bentayga. However, it remains uncertain for how much longer this will be the case.

Bentley has announced that the Edition 8 was designed with a focus on the North American market; however, the gas-only V-8 configurations of the three cars are also being discontinued in various other regions. The UK, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa will also be saying goodbye to the twin-turbo 4.0-liter engine without hybrid technology. This change will soon be applied in additional markets. Time is running out to purchase a Continental GT/GTC or a Flying Spur with a V-8 engine that does not include electrification.

The Edition 8 trio can be customized in over 60 colors by the Mulliner bespoke division. They feature 22-inch wheels with either five- or ten-spoke designs and self-leveling center caps. Bentley describes them as the most “lavishly equipped” versions, including a jewel-like polished fuel filler cap. The Continental models and the Flying Spur’s rear pillar also receive special badging from the ultra-luxury British marque.

The side sills and seatbacks are also embellished with the same motif, featuring an embroidered logo. The luxurious Palm Fluting pattern on the seats, while not a new design, is now available for the first time on a Bentley model considered more “mainstream,” if such a thing exists. Deliveries of the Edition 8 to customers will start soon.

Since the introduction of the current-generation 4.0-liter V-8 in 2012, Bentley has produced over 53,000 Continental GT/GTC and Flying Spur cars. Nevertheless, the tradition of crafting V-8 engines at the Crewe headquarters dates back to 1959 with the debut of the S2 model. What lies ahead for Bentley? Recently unveiled is the “Ultra Performance Hybrid,” a cutting-edge V-8 engine featuring hybrid technology. This powerhouse is set to deliver a total output surpassing 740 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque.

The Flying Spur and Bentayga currently provide a hybrid powertrain that is built on smaller V-6 engines. The sedan is equipped with a 2.9-liter unit, while the SUV utilizes a slightly larger 3.0-liter engine. Bentley has announced that the Continental GT and GT Convertible will also be electrified later this year, most likely incorporating the new Ultra Performance Hybrid technology.

Source: Bentley